Chimney inspection and sweeping
Every chimney repair starts with an inspection. Regular sweeping and inspection also keep you safe between repairs.
A chimney inspection checks the structure, liner, cap, crown, flashing and appliance connections for damage, blockages and fire hazards. Sweeping removes creosote, soot and debris from the flue. Many companies do both on the same visit.
How often should a chimney be inspected?
The national standard for chimneys, NFPA 211, calls for chimneys, fireplaces and vents to be inspected once a year, with cleaning as needed. Chimneys used heavily for wood or coal usually need sweeping more often than those venting gas appliances. Your chimney contractor can recommend a schedule based on what you burn and how much.
What are the levels of inspection?
| Level | What's checked | Typical reason |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Readily accessible parts of the chimney, fireplace and connections | Routine annual check when nothing has changed |
| Level 2 | Everything in Level 1, plus accessible attic, crawl space and basement areas, and usually a camera scan of the flue | Buying or selling a home, changing fuel or appliance, after a chimney fire or storm |
| Level 3 | Removing parts of the structure to reach concealed areas | When a serious hidden problem is suspected |
Buying an older home in NEPA?
A standard home inspection usually looks at the chimney only from the outside and the firebox. Many older homes in the region have multiple flues, unused fireplaces and chimneys that once served coal furnaces. A Level 2 camera inspection before closing can reveal liner damage that would be expensive to fix later.
What is creosote?
Creosote is a tar-like residue left when wood smoke cools inside the flue. It builds up in layers, and it's highly flammable. Burning unseasoned wood, smoldering fires and oversized or cold flues make it build up faster. Regular sweeping removes it before it becomes a fire hazard.
Warning signs between inspections
- Smoke coming into the room when the fire is lit
- A strong smoky or tar smell from the fireplace
- Black, flaky debris falling into the firebox
- Loud cracking or roaring sounds from the chimney (possible chimney fire)
- Carbon monoxide alarms going off
Prices come from the chimney company after they've inspected the chimney. We don't quote prices ourselves, and a phone estimate is only a starting point.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
Do I need my chimney inspected if I don't use the fireplace?
If the chimney vents a furnace, boiler or water heater, yes. Even unused flues can become blocked by animals or debris or let water into the house.
How long does a chimney sweep take?
A standard sweep and Level 1 inspection often take about an hour or two. Camera inspections and multiple flues take longer.
Related services
More background: Northeastern PA chimney guide.
Crumbling bricks or a leak by the fireplace?
Call now and a local chimney company will come inspect it and quote the repair.