Inspection
Chimney Inspection
An inspection is how you find out what condition a chimney is really in before a problem forces the issue. It documents what is there, what is worn, and what should be watched or addressed. Inspections are organized into levels, and the right one depends on why you are looking.
The three inspection levels, in plain terms
A Level 1 inspection covers the readily accessible parts of a chimney and venting system when it is in continued service under the same conditions. A Level 2 inspection is more thorough and is called for when a home is being sold, after a chimney fire or a weather event, or when the system, fuel, or appliance is changing; it typically includes a video scan of the flue interior. A Level 3 inspection is reserved for cases where a hidden hazard is suspected and reaching it may require opening or removing part of the structure.
Matching the level to the situation keeps you from paying for more than you need, and from missing something a lighter look would not catch.
What an inspection can and cannot tell you
An inspection identifies conditions that are visible or accessibly observable at the time of the visit: liner cracks, spalling brick, deteriorated mortar, a compromised crown, blocked flues, moisture damage, and worn components. It gives you a clear, documented starting point for decisions.
What it does not do is guarantee the future or reach what cannot be seen without further access. We report what we observed and where our view was limited, rather than describing an entire concealed system as sound. When something needs a closer look, we say so.
When to schedule one
The general guidance is an annual inspection of any chimney and venting system in use. Beyond that, a few moments call for one specifically: buying or selling a home, after a chimney fire or a lightning, wind, or earthquake event, before switching fuels or installing a new appliance, or any time you notice leaking, odor, or draft problems you cannot explain.
Reasons to schedule an inspection
- You have not had the system inspected in the past year
- You are buying or selling the home
- There was a chimney fire, lightning strike, or severe storm
- You are changing the appliance, fuel, or flue
- You notice leaking, odor, or a draft problem you can't explain
- You just moved in and don't know the chimney's history
What an inspection can cover
- The readily accessible chimney exterior and interior
- The firebox, damper, and accessible flue
- Soot and creosote accumulation and obvious blockages
- A camera scan of the flue interior (Level 2)
- Accessible chimney areas in attics or basements (Level 2)
- A documented account of the conditions observed
Serving St. Louis & Kansas City
We provide chimney inspection across both of our home regions — the St. Louis metro, including the Metro East communities in Illinois, and the Kansas City metro on both the Missouri and Kansas sides — generally within about 65 miles of each city. Wherever you are, the approach is the same: we look at the actual system on site, explain what we find in plain terms, and lay out the options before any work begins. We use cautious, honest language about what we can and can't determine, and we don't quote a price or promise a fix for a problem we haven't assessed in person. Each metro has its own direct phone number, so you always reach the right place, and we're available around the clock to take your call and get you on the schedule.
The right depth of inspection depends on why you are looking: an unchanged system in steady use, a home sale, a post-event check, or a change of appliance or fuel each point to a different level, and access to the chimney affects what can be reached.
Keeping ahead of it
An inspection is most useful as a routine, not a reaction. Having the system looked at each year — and stepping up to a fuller inspection when you're buying, selling, changing the setup, or after an event — gives you a documented starting point and keeps you from discovering a problem at the worst possible time.
Questions
Chimney Inspection FAQs
Which inspection level do I need?
For an unchanged system in regular use, Level 1 is usually appropriate. Home sales, post-event checks, and appliance or fuel changes generally call for Level 2. We help you match the level to your situation.
Do I need to clean before an inspection?
A heavily sooted flue can hide its own condition. When buildup would obscure the view, cleaning first makes the inspection more accurate, so the two are often scheduled together.
Will I get something in writing?
We walk you through what we found and the conditions we observed so you have a clear basis for any decisions about repair or continued use.
Do you service both St. Louis and Kansas City?
Yes. This is one of the services we provide across both the St. Louis and Kansas City metro areas, each with its own direct phone number. Call the number for your area and we'll take it from there.
St. Louis metro
Chimney Inspection near St. Louis
Available across the St. Louis service area, including:
Kansas City metro
Chimney Inspection near Kansas City
Available across the Kansas City service area, including:
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Request chimney inspection
Tell us about your chimney or fireplace and the best number to reach you. Full name, phone, and ZIP are required.
- Available 24/7 to take your call and schedule a visit.
- We assess the system on site and explain options before any work.
- Serving the St. Louis and Kansas City metro areas.