Adding a fireplace to your existing home can be an excellent way of improving the value of your house as well as the comfort of those living inside it. When you are looking at the possibility of installing a fireplace in your home, you should take the time to thoroughly research this option before you commit to it.

Check The Local Permitting Regulations And Your Homeowner's Association Rules

Prior to starting the process of shopping for fireplace models, you should thoroughly research the local permitting requirements, as it will often be necessary to obtain a permit prior to making this upgrade. Additionally, some homeowners associations will have rules that govern the process of being approved for this type of upgrade, but you will have to check with your particular homeowner's association rules to learn about this process.

Update Your Homeowner's Insurance

After the fireplace has been installed, you will likely need to contact your homeowner's association so that your policy can be updated. The addition of a fireplace will alter the risk profile of your house. Therefore, your policy will need to be updated and you may want to add more coverage to account for the value increase that your home will experience. Failure to notify the insurance of this upgrade can have profound effects, as it may cause your policy to be voided.

Sign A Service Contract

Caring for your fireplace will be more complicated than you may have realized, as it will need to be regularly cleaned and inspected for damage, and the lining will need to be replaced periodically. When damage is found during the inspections, you will also need to have the cracks sealed or other problems addressed, as these issues can allow smoke and heat to escape into your house. By signing a service contract, you can be sure that your chimney will be maintained according to an effective schedule. Also, many services may offer some discounts for those that agree to sign one of these contracts.

Seal The Fireplace During Spring And Summer Months

During the months when you will not be using the fireplace, it may be wise to have it sealed with a chimney cap. This device will prevent squirrels and small birds from entering the chimney, as they could get trapped or cause other problems for it. In addition to preventing animals from getting in it, these devices will also limit the amount of pollen and other allergens that enter through the chimney. When you are ready to use the chimney again, this cap will be easy to remove.

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