Certified Chimney Sweep (CSIA) Exam –
Verified Questions & Detailed A+ Answers
< (Latest 2025 Edition | CSIA National
Certification Study Guide) >
1. According to NFPA 211, how often should chimneys, fireplaces, and vents be
inspected?
A. Every 2 years
B. Annually
C. Only when issues occur
D. Monthly
Answer: B. Annually
Explanation: NFPA 211 recommends annual inspections to ensure safety and
performance.
2. What is the most dangerous stage of creosote in terms of flammability?
,A. Stage 1 (light soot)
B. Stage 2 (tar-like)
C. Stage 3 (glazed)
D. All are equally dangerous
Answer: C. Stage 3 (glazed)
Explanation: Stage 3 creosote is highly combustible and hard to remove,
increasing fire risk.
3. What type of inspection is required after a chimney fire?
A. Level 1
B. Level 2
C. Level 3
D. No inspection is required
Answer: B. Level 2
Explanation: A Level 2 inspection is mandatory after a fire, natural disaster, or
equipment replacement.
4. What is the primary function of a chimney liner?
,A. Prevent backdraft
B. Reduce smoke output
C. Protect masonry and contain combustion products
D. Block rainwater
Answer: C. Protect masonry and contain combustion products
Explanation: Chimney liners ensure safe operation by containing flue gases and
protecting the chimney structure.
5. Which standard regulates the construction and maintenance of chimneys
and venting systems?
A. ASTM C33
B. NFPA 70
C. NFPA 211
D. ICC-700
Answer: C. NFPA 211
Explanation: NFPA 211 sets the standard for chimneys, fireplaces, vents, and solid-
fuel appliances.
, 6. What is a major concern when combustibles are located too close to a
chimney?
A. Draft problems
B. Heat loss
C. Fire hazard
D. Moisture buildup
Answer: C. Fire hazard
Explanation: Insufficient clearance can cause heat to ignite nearby combustible
materials.
7. Which inspection level requires access to concealed areas of a building?
A. Level 1
B. Level 2
C. Level 3
D. None
Answer: C. Level 3
Explanation: Level 3 inspections are invasive and involve opening building
structures if serious hazards are suspected.
Verified Questions & Detailed A+ Answers
< (Latest 2025 Edition | CSIA National
Certification Study Guide) >
1. According to NFPA 211, how often should chimneys, fireplaces, and vents be
inspected?
A. Every 2 years
B. Annually
C. Only when issues occur
D. Monthly
Answer: B. Annually
Explanation: NFPA 211 recommends annual inspections to ensure safety and
performance.
2. What is the most dangerous stage of creosote in terms of flammability?
,A. Stage 1 (light soot)
B. Stage 2 (tar-like)
C. Stage 3 (glazed)
D. All are equally dangerous
Answer: C. Stage 3 (glazed)
Explanation: Stage 3 creosote is highly combustible and hard to remove,
increasing fire risk.
3. What type of inspection is required after a chimney fire?
A. Level 1
B. Level 2
C. Level 3
D. No inspection is required
Answer: B. Level 2
Explanation: A Level 2 inspection is mandatory after a fire, natural disaster, or
equipment replacement.
4. What is the primary function of a chimney liner?
,A. Prevent backdraft
B. Reduce smoke output
C. Protect masonry and contain combustion products
D. Block rainwater
Answer: C. Protect masonry and contain combustion products
Explanation: Chimney liners ensure safe operation by containing flue gases and
protecting the chimney structure.
5. Which standard regulates the construction and maintenance of chimneys
and venting systems?
A. ASTM C33
B. NFPA 70
C. NFPA 211
D. ICC-700
Answer: C. NFPA 211
Explanation: NFPA 211 sets the standard for chimneys, fireplaces, vents, and solid-
fuel appliances.
, 6. What is a major concern when combustibles are located too close to a
chimney?
A. Draft problems
B. Heat loss
C. Fire hazard
D. Moisture buildup
Answer: C. Fire hazard
Explanation: Insufficient clearance can cause heat to ignite nearby combustible
materials.
7. Which inspection level requires access to concealed areas of a building?
A. Level 1
B. Level 2
C. Level 3
D. None
Answer: C. Level 3
Explanation: Level 3 inspections are invasive and involve opening building
structures if serious hazards are suspected.
