Failed Pre-Sale Inspection Turned Around with a Level 2 Scope & Reline

Problem

Mid-1960s home under contract. The general home inspector noted creosote and a 'possible flue issue' but couldn't see inside the flue, so the report read as an open-ended safety concern. The buyer's lender wanted it resolved before funding, and both agents were stuck without a definitive answer.

Diagnosis

We performed a CSIA-certified NFPA 211 Level 2 inspection with an internal video scope. The footage showed a horizontal crack across one clay flue tile and a separated joint two tiles up — a true Level 2 finding that a visual-only inspection can't confirm or rule out. We graded the system in writing with time-stamped photos rather than leaving it as 'looks questionable.'

Solution

• 01CSIA-certified Level 2 inspection with full internal video scope
• 02Written condition report with time-stamped photos of each defect
• 03Installed a UL-1777 listed stainless steel liner sized to the appliance
• 04Insulated the liner to maintain proper draft and clearances
• 05Re-inspected and re-scoped after install to confirm a clean, sealed flue

Outcome

The documented before/after scope gave the lender and both agents the evidence they needed; the contingency was released and the home closed on schedule. The buyer received the full inspection package and warranty paperwork, and a system that's safe to burn from day one.