Chimney inspectors are responsible for verifying that fireplaces have sufficient ventilation, that chimneys are free of obstructions and that grates and other related apparatus are in working order and in compliance with local regulations. Typically, someone wishing to become a chimney inspector must first gain some industry experience working as a chimney sweep. Additionally, laws in some countries require people offering inspection services to go through an official certification process.
Some colleges offer short-term vocational training courses for chimney sweeps during which candidates are taught about fire safety and shown different techniques for removing soot and debris from commercial and residential fireplace ventilation shafts. An individual wishing to become a chimney inspector may benefit from attending one of these courses although some experienced sweeps provide on-the-job training to apprentices. In nations where inspectors are regulated, an individual may have to spend a certain period of time working as a fully trained sweep before becoming eligible to apply for an inspector's license.
Local fire departments and government safety regulators often impose rules that homeowners must abide by when they make use of their fireplaces. Anyone wishing to become a chimney inspector must study these rules and local ordinances. Additionally, while some fireplaces are designed to burn wood or coal, others are designed to burn natural gas as well as these materials. Therefore, chimney inspectors must be familiar with safety rules pertaining to gas installations including rules about the location of carbon monoxide detectors and ventilation systems. An inspector may be able to physically examine the interior of a large chimney, while inspectors must learn how to use various types of equipment when testing narrower structures for blockages and structural damage.
Having studied the relevant materials and become familiar with the safety equipment, someone wishing to become a chimney inspector may have to attend a certification class. Candidates typically have to achieve a certain minimum passing score on a certification exam to become eligible for a license. The last step in the certification process normally involves paying a fee and registering with the local safety regulatory board or the regional chimney inspectors association.
While some inspectors work for organizations, many people working in this field are self-employed. Laws in some areas require such individuals to obtain liability insurance policies before beginning work. Such policies protect these professionals from incurring financial loss in the event that a mistake during an inspection leads to a lawsuit. Additionally, self-employed persons may need to register as business owners with the national or regional government.