F.I.R.E. Certification

The F.I.R.E. Certified Inspector credential is one of the newest available to the hearth industry.

To achieve this certification you need to pass a closed book test that covers all things related to inspecting hearth appliances. This test includes but is not limited to knowledge of:

• 1. The building codes that were in effect when the fireplace or other hearth appliance was constructed or installed, and the intent of this code.
• 2. Identification of components of fireplaces and other hearth appliances and the proper application and installation of said components.
• 3. Knowledge of the proper performance of a fireplace or other hearth appliance and what the forensic evidence is when the appliance is operating correctly, or not.
• 4. Knowledge of the different types of fireplaces and appliances and their appropriate usage.
• 5. Knowledge of all the different chimney and vent systems on the market, both factory built and site constructed and their proper usage.
• 6. Process to perform an inspection and how to clearly communicate the results of this inspection in a format that can be understood and comprehended.
• 7. Knowledge of industry standards of inspection levels as spelled out by the National Fire Protection Association standard 211 for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents and Solid Fuel-Burning Appliances.
• 8. Knowledge of fire technology. What makes a fire burn, or not burn, how it is changed by external influences.

The goal of the F.I.R.E. Certification Program is to increase knowledge and encourage professional education to ensure a reasonable performance by all fireplace, chimney & venting inspectors, contractors and service technicians. This continued education will improve the work product and professional knowledge of every F.I.R.E. Certificated Inspector. This process will also ensure the safety of homeowners and all occupants.

Larry was certified in June of 2008 and is Fireplace Inspector #188. If you would like to check that the credential is still current, you may go to the F.I.R.E. website. Click on this link http://www.f-i-r-e-service.com/mainframe.html, then hold your mouse over the button on the top left that says “Certified Inspectors” Then click on the United States and last but not least scroll down to Wyoming and click on it.