What is a CSIA Level 2 Inspection? | TSE Glossary

Texas Service Experts — DFW chimney & fireplace specialists. Free inspection, written quote, no surprise fees.

A CSIA Level 2 inspection is the in-depth chimney evaluation that includes everything in a Level 1 plus a video scan of the entire flue interior, examination of accessible attic and basement portions of the chimney, and verification of clearances to combustibles. NFPA 211 mandates Level 2 inspections after chimney fires, real estate transactions, appliance changes, and any event that may have affected chimney integrity.

The technician performs the Level 1 evaluation, then introduces a video camera lowered down the flue to record every linear foot of interior surface. The footage documents flue tile cracks, mortar joint failures, debris accumulation, and metal liner condition. Accessible chase, attic, and basement portions are examined for clearances to framing, evidence of pyrolysis or charring, and structural integrity. Findings are written into a detailed report often used for insurance claims or property transactions.

Level 2 inspections require additional time and tooling compared to Level 1, typically running 90 to 150 minutes for a standard residential chimney. The video file is delivered to the homeowner along with the written report, providing visual evidence to support repair recommendations. Real estate buyers, insurance adjusters, and code officials all rely on CSIA Level 2 documentation for due diligence and claims processing.

DFW real estate transactions on homes 20 years and older increasingly include CSIA Level 2 inspections during the option period, particularly after the June 2025 hailstorms exposed widespread chimney damage that Level 1 visual inspections missed. TSE delivers Level 2 reports formatted for both insurance and real estate use, with timestamped video files and annotated photos. The reports are typically emailed within 24 hours of the inspection.

• [CSIA Level 1 inspection](/glossary/csia-level-1-inspection/)
• [CSIA Level 3 inspection](/glossary/csia-level-3-inspection/)
• [NFPA 211](/glossary/nfpa-211/)
• [Flue fire](/glossary/flue-fire/)

• NFPA 211 (2024), Section 14.5
• CSIA Inspection Standard
• CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Reference Manual

Reach Out To Our Pros

Free inspection · written quote · no surprise fees

We restore and protect what matters most. Same-week scheduling.

Join the Hearth Club — $19.99/mo

Annual chimney sweep included · Priority same-week scheduling · 10% off all repairs · Free emergency calls. Never worry about your chimney again.

Our Sister Companies — Specialists in Related Services

Texas Service Experts is part of a network of CSIA-certified chimney specialists. Depending on your specific need:

• Texas Chimney Experts — chimney repair/masonry
• Prime Chimney Experts — multi-state national service

Related Services & Areas

• Chimney Repair in Fate, TX
• Fireplace Architectural Restoration in DFW | Texas Service Exper.
• State Farm Chimney Damage Claims in Fort Worth, TX
• The Fireplace Remodel ROI Conversation | TSE Blog

Learn More From Our Knowledge Base

Find Service Near You

• CLICK TO CALL NOW

Drop your name + phone and we'll text you within 1 business hour.