A chimney inspection checks the flue, liner, firebox, damper, crown, cap and flashing for damage, blockages and fire hazards. NFPA 211 defines three levels: Level 1 for routine yearly checks, Level 2 when buying or selling a home or after a chimney fire or storm, and Level 3 when hidden damage is suspected.
Signs you need inspection
- You are buying or selling a home
- You had a chimney fire, lightning strike, earthquake or severe storm
- You switched fuel type or installed a new stove or insert
- Water stains on the ceiling or walls near the chimney
- Cracked, spalling or crumbling brick on the outside
- It's been a year since your last inspection
Our process
- Exterior check. We look at the crown, cap, flashing, mortar joints and brick from the roof and the ground.
- Interior check. We examine the firebox, damper, smoke chamber and every accessible part of the flue.
- Camera scan (Level 2). A video camera goes up the flue to find cracks, gaps and missing mortar you can't see by eye.
- Photos and report. You receive photos and a written summary of what we found, ranked by urgency.
- Options, not pressure. If something needs repair, we explain your options and give a written estimate.
The three levels of chimney inspection
Level 1 is the yearly check for a chimney with no changes and normal use. We inspect all readily accessible parts of the chimney, the appliance and its connection.
Level 2 adds a video camera scan of the flue plus checks of accessible attics, crawl spaces and the roof. It is recommended when a home is sold, after a chimney fire or weather event, or when you change the appliance or fuel.
Level 3 is only needed when a serious hidden hazard is suspected and requires removing parts of the structure, such as a section of wall or the crown, to reach it.
Inspections for home buyers
Most general home inspectors do not scan inside the flue. A Level 2 chimney inspection before closing can reveal liner damage or masonry problems that are expensive to fix — giving you information to negotiate with.
Frequently asked questions
What level of chimney inspection do I need?
Level 1 for a routine yearly check, Level 2 when buying or selling a home or after a fire, storm or appliance change, and Level 3 only when hidden damage is suspected.
How long does a chimney inspection take?
A Level 1 inspection usually takes 30–45 minutes. A Level 2 with a camera scan usually takes about an hour per flue.
Does a home inspector check the chimney?
Usually only the visible exterior and firebox. A chimney professional scans the inside of the flue, where most serious damage is found.
Related guides
Inspection near you
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