Chimney Inspection FAQs

Summer is right around the corner, which means we’ll be spending more time outdoors. And with temperatures on the rise, it’s inevitable that we won’t need the help of our fireplaces to keep us warm. Because our chimneys will be used less often this season, it’s the ideal time to get your chimney inspected.

You may be wondering: what is a chimney inspection and how does it work? In an attempt to clarify, here are a few FAQ:

What is a chimney inspection?
A close examination of both the interior and exterior of a chimney. Chimney inspections involve a thorough search for any damage, deterioration, buildups, and other types of blockage. You want the passageway to be clean and clear, so you’re safe to turn on your fireplace.

How is a Chimney inspected?
The National Fire Protection Association has designated three types of inspections:

Level one - a general examination. Your inspector will look at the structure of your chimney, including the flue liner, joints, connectors, interiors walls, and so forth. It will also be checked for any obstructions that could cause a fire to spark.

Level two - required for transfer or sale of a property, or if a fire has recently damaged the chimney. During this part of the inspection, special tools will be used to access more hidden areas. They key is the look for any concealed hazards.

Level three - necessary if level two shows signs of damage. This part involves removal of structural parts for easier access to the areas of main concern.

How often do I need a chimney inspection?
Annual inspections are recommended, even if you don’t use your fireplace often. Why? Because debris can easily clog the space regardless of its use, which is a fire hazard. Chimney flutes are also a perfect spot for birds to build their nests - one other obstruction you want to avoid.

AM & Associates is your source for chimney inspection and other related services in New York and the entire metropolitan area. With over 50 years of experience, we are known for both our high standards and specialized services. We have supported the work of some of the largest and most prestigious developers, retailers and more.

Call us today at 212.867.6720 or visit our website for more information.

The Importance of Sprinkler System Inspection & Maintenance

A recent fire in Bowie, Maryland, highlights the danger of modifications that block fire sprinklers. Reports claim that a dropped ceiling was built below the fire sprinklers, affecting their ability to perform. This fire is just one instance that shows the importance of sprinkler system inspection, testing, and maintenance.

Human modification is found in 95% of sprinkler challenges, leading to malfunctions and injuries. An effective way to prevent these challenges is to have a qualified fire sprinkler contractor come in to a home remodel to inspect. They key is to avoid features like dropped ceilings so that fire sprinklers can work in emergency situations.

Jason Webb, Director of Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance for the National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA) explains that “sprinkler systems in houses are essentially maintenance free, but when you make modifications that block the fire sprinklers, you have a recipe for disaster". 

Inspection, testing, and maintenance of fire sprinkler systems ensure proper functionality it’s needed. Alan Margolin & Associates are IAS accredited experts in NYC construction and applicable building codes. With over 30 years of experience providing engineering services to the New York area, we have focused our craft entirely on Special Inspection engineering, making ourselves a leader in our field and preventing hazardous situations. Visit our website for more information.

Tips for Avoiding Illegally Converted Apartments

Choosing safe and legal living conditions in New York can be tough if you don't know the kind of requirements to look for. To ensure both the safety of yourself and your family, use these tips below for eyeing an illegally converted apartment:

• Educate yourself on market prices. Rent that seems too low for the area in which the building resides could be illegal. 
• Look for certain keywords in postings. "Basement," "attic" and "flex" are all red-flags for conditions that would not provide adequate exit options. "Utilities included" may also be a sign that the landlord does not want another name connected to the property for maximum occupancy reasons. 
• If the address is not disclosed on the listing or mail can not be delivered directly, the landlord is likely afraid to expose the exact location due to illegal features involved. 
• Never rent a room with very small windows or locked doors. Residents should have access to efficient light, escape options, and all available exits. 

As always, New Yorkers are encouraged to call 311 if they become aware of unsafe construction conditions. 

Alan Margolin & Associates has been proving engineering services to the New York area for over 30 years. Focusing our craft on special inspection, we are experts in the New York City Department of Buildings' requirements and ensure all construction is built properly and to code. 

Our IAS accreditation is proof that we operate at the highest level of ethical, legal and technical standards. Visit our website for more information on our credentials and a complete list of services we provide. 

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

NYC Special Inspection Services

AM & Associates provides a full range of special inspection services including mechanical, structural, fire, and life safety to name a few. For a full list of inspections provided, please see the following:

Photoluminescent Exit Path Markings

Structural Steel- Welding, Erection and Bolding

Structural Cold- Formed Steel

Concrete- Cast-in-place, Precast, Pre-stressed

Masonry

Soils- Site Preparation, Fill Placement and in-Place Density, investigations (Borings/ Test Pits)

Wall Panels, Curtain Walls and Veneers

Sprayed Fire-Resistant Materials

Exterior Insulation Finish Systems (EIFS)

Alternative Materials- OTCR Buildings Bulletin

Smoke Control Systems

Mechanical Systems

Fuel-Oil Storage and Fuel-Oil piping Systems

High-Pressure Steam Piping (Welding)

Fuel-Gas Piping (Welding)

Structural Safety/ Stability

Site Storm drainage Disposal and Detention System Installation

Sprinkler Systems

Standpipe Systems

Heating Systems

Chimneys

Firestop, Draftstop and Fireblock Systems

Aluminum Welding

Seismic Isolation Systems

Concrete Test Cylinders

Frame Inspection

Energy Code Compliance Inspections

Fire-Resistance Rate Construction

Public Assemble Emergency Lighting

Final

Located atop the iconic Grand Central Station in midtown Manhattan, AM & Associates is proud to deliver quick service to our clients and expeditors. Our staff of highly trained inspectors work to accommodate our clients schedules and diligently process and return the constant flow of forms required for each NYC building project.

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

What Is NFPA 25?

NFPA 25 is the standard for the inspection, testing, and maintenance of water-based fire protection systems. Compliance of this code helps maximize the integrity of the system and ensure a fast and effective response in a fire emergency. Are you interested in learning more about this code?



To view Frequently Asked Questions, Click here.

AM & Associates provides a full range of special inspection services including mechanical, structural, fire, and life safety to name a few. For a full list of inspections provided, please click here.

Located atop the iconic Grand Central Station in midtown Manhattan, AM & Associates is proud to deliver quick service to our clients and expeditors. Our staff of highly trained inspectors work to accommodate our clients schedules and diligently process and return the constant flow of forms required for each NYC building project.

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

Photo source: commons.wikimedia.org