Chimney inspections aren't all the same. NFPA 211 defines three levels, each scoped for a specific situation. Most homeowners only need Level I. If you're selling the house, converting fuel, or have had a chimney event (fire, leak, lightning strike), you'll need Level II. Level III is rare — it involves partial demolition.
The three inspection levels
Level I — Visual inspection of readily accessible portions of the chimney and venting system. Included free with every annual sweep. Good for continuing-use chimneys that haven't changed.
Level II — Video camera scan of the full flue plus all accessible chimney exterior and attic pass-throughs. Required by NFPA 211 for: home sales, transfer of property, fuel conversion, changes to appliance output (BTU rating), after a chimney fire, after a lightning strike, or when concealed damage is suspected. Generates a written report acceptable to home inspectors, insurance carriers, and real estate attorneys.
Level III — Involves partial removal of chimney components (fireboxes, crowns, walls) when a hazard is suspected that can't be assessed otherwise. Rare — we only perform these after a Level II reveals concealed issues.
When you need Level II (and won't regret booking it)
- Selling the house
- Buying a house (pre-purchase due diligence)
- Converting from oil furnace to natural gas
- After any chimney fire
- After a storm or lightning strike
- Insurance claim for water damage tied to chimney
- Smoke backing up, weird draft issues
- Staining on interior walls near chimney chase
Our process
- Schedule and arrive. Two-hour arrival window, tech calls 30 minutes out.
- Exterior assessment. We photograph the chimney from roof level. Document crown, flashing, cap, and masonry condition.
- Interior camera scan. Push-camera system scans the entire flue. You watch live on the monitor.
- Smoke chamber & damper. Inspect and photograph. Document any creosote, cracks, or displacement.
- Attic pass-through. If accessible, we check framing clearances per code.
- Written report. Delivered same day. Findings ranked: safe / watch / repair / stop use.
