Chimney inspections
Most chimney problems start where you can't see them: a cracked flue tile, a gap in the smoke chamber, a slow leak at the crown. An inspection finds them early, and tells you plainly what needs attention and what doesn't.
Chimneys swept and inspected, so every fire burns the way it should.
Gutters and roofs kept clear, so rain goes where it belongs.
Floors covered, work areas contained, and nothing left behind.
Photos of what we find, and a written price before any repair.
What's included
Every inspection ends with a written report and photos, so you can see exactly what we saw.
Firebrick, mortar joints, the damper, and the smoke chamber checked for cracks, gaps, and wear.
The liner checked for cracked tiles, missing mortar, blockages, and creosote buildup.
Brick and mortar, the crown, the cap, and the flashing checked for damage and leaks.
What we found, what it means, and what we recommend, in writing.
Inspection levels
The fire code standard for chimneys, NFPA 211, defines three levels of inspection. We'll tell you which one your situation calls for.
For a chimney you use the same way every year with no known problems. We examine the parts that can be reached without tools or special equipment, and confirm the flue is clear.
Required when a home is sold or transferred, when you change the appliance or fuel, and after a chimney fire, earthquake, or severe weather. Includes a camera scan of the inside of the flue.
When a Level 1 or 2 inspection points to a serious hazard that can't be seen any other way. It can involve opening up part of the chimney or the wall around it.
| Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| When | Yearly, nothing has changed | Home sale, new appliance or fuel, or after a fire, earthquake, or storm | A hidden hazard is suspected |
| What's examined | Readily accessible parts of the chimney and appliance | Level 1, plus accessible attics, crawl spaces, and the inside of the flue | Level 2, plus concealed areas |
| Camera scan of the flue | Not usually | Yes | Yes |
| Opening walls or chimney | No | No | When necessary |
How it works
Four of the six steps happen before any work begins, so you always know what's being done and why.
Tell us what you need and where you are. We confirm a day and an arrival window.
Floors and furniture near the fireplace are covered, and outdoor work areas are set up safely.
Before any tools come out, we check the chimney, gutters, roof, or vent and take photos.
You see what we found. If anything beyond the booked service is needed, you get the price first.
The job you approved, done carefully and by the book.
We clean up, haul away debris, and walk you through what was done, with photos.
FAQ
Anything else, ask us when you book.
A Level 2 inspection. A general home inspector looks at the chimney from the outside and the firebox, but not the inside of the flue. A camera scan shows cracked tiles and gaps that would otherwise stay hidden until after you move in.
Yes. Masonry chimneys are one of the first parts of a house to crack in an earthquake, and the damage is often inside the flue or below the roofline where you can't see it. Have it inspected before you use the fireplace again.
At least once a year, according to NFPA 211, even if you don't use the fireplace much. Animals, moisture, and settling cause problems whether or not you burn.
A written report with photos: the condition of each part of the chimney, anything that needs repair, and what can simply be watched.
No. A sweep removes soot and creosote. An inspection examines the chimney's condition. A basic inspection is part of every sweep, and a camera inspection can be added to it.
More services
Many of these can be done in the same visit.
Tell us what your home needs. We'll confirm a time and take it from there.
