Chimney Inspection Mortgage 2026: FHA, VA, and Conventional Requirements

Chimneys are a common source of appraisal conditions on government loans. An appraiser who observes visible deficiencies is required to note them, and the lender must then condition the file on a professional inspection and clearance before funding. Knowing what triggers a chimney condition and how to resolve it quickly keeps closings on track.

What Appraisers Look For

From the exterior, appraisers look at the chimney cap condition, mortar integrity between brick courses, and whether the chimney is plumb and structurally attached to the home. Interior signs of chimney problems include visible efflorescence (white mineral staining on the firebox bricks), cracked firebox tiles, and damper functionality. In properties with wood stoves or freestanding fireplace inserts, the appraiser checks that the unit appears to be properly installed and vented. Visible open flue tiles or obvious structural separation will always trigger a condition.

FHA and VA Requirements

FHA minimum property requirements mandate that chimneys be safe and operational if they serve a functional fireplace or heating system. A non-functional decorative fireplace that is sealed off typically does not require the same scrutiny. VA follows similar logic: chimneys must be structurally sound and properly functioning where they serve the heating system or a fireplace in use. The appraiser's notes drive the lender's condition requirements; a flagged chimney requires a licensed chimney professional's inspection and clearance before underwriting signs off.

Professional Inspection Standards

• ✦Level 1 inspection: visual examination of accessible portions of the chimney. Appropriate for routine sales of properties with no known issues.
• ✦Level 2 inspection: includes video scanning of the flue interior. Required when a property is changing hands, after any chimney event (fire, earthquake), or when a Level 1 reveals concerns. Most lenders require Level 2 after an appraiser note.
• ✦CSIA certification: lenders prefer or require inspectors certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America. Confirm the certification before ordering.
• ✦Repair documentation: if repairs are needed, the inspector issues a clearance letter after confirming completion. Submit this letter with the repair receipts to underwriting.