Do we need a new boiler? first inspector said yes, 2nd inspector said no, who do we get for a third opinion

Question

We have a 13 year old Weil-McLain steam boiler, model LGB-7.

first inspection report:

Flooded out the boiler on the initial inspection to test the initial
integirty of the boiler. Boiler failed the flood out test. Building
needs a new boiler . Boiler leaks where the top of the sections
have worn through.

property manager says:

He reports that the boiler is leaking badly and either needs to
be replaced before the start of the heating season or all 6 sections of the boiler need to be replaced.

My plumber:
your boiler is quite young and
it is holding water and no signs of leaks
He said call someone else
don't tell them your boiler leaks, just have them give it
an inspection.

2nd report:

start and check, brush and vacuumed burners,
cleaned pilot assemblies, sight glass, checked
flue travels, smoke? pipe pipe started and checked
operation, safety's ok, explained how to flush low
water cut off, let steam ok

Answer 1

First, what is the certification of the inspectors?

The first inspector may have done a hydrostatic test and found leaks. I'd disregard anything the plumber said. It is not apparent that a hydrostatic test was done by the second inspector.

A hydrostatic test using water tests the integrity of the boiler under pressure. A boiler leak or, much worse, explosion can have severe consequences. Confirm what the first and second inspector did. If there's still a discrepancy, either get a new boiler or a third inspection in which a pressure test is done.

Answer 2

I don't understand how you could get 2 inspections of the boiler and have such opposite results. It seems to me you could see any leaks in the boiler. If there are leaks, I would not recommend running the unit until it is repaired or replaced. Did both inspectors go through the same checks on the system? Did you observe these checks? If you call a 3rd inspector, let him know that you have 2 differing reports on the boiler and watch what he does as he checks it out.

Answer 3

Yes get a third opinion