Inspection
Level 2 Chimney Inspection
A Level 2 inspection goes further than the annual baseline. It adds a video scan of the flue interior and a look at accessible areas in attics, crawl spaces, and basements where the chimney passes through. It is the inspection called for when circumstances change or something has happened to the system.
What makes it different from a Level 1
A Level 2 includes everything in a Level 1 plus a camera scan of the internal flue surfaces and joints, and examination of accessible portions of the chimney in adjoining spaces. The video scan is the key addition: it reveals cracked or displaced liner tiles, gaps at joints, and buildup or damage that cannot be judged by looking up the flue from below.
It requires no demolition. It relies on access and a camera rather than opening the structure.
When a Level 2 is called for
A Level 2 is the appropriate inspection at the sale or transfer of a property, after an event that could have damaged the chimney such as a chimney fire, a lightning strike, or a significant wind or seismic event, and whenever the system is changing, for example a new appliance, a different fuel, or a change in flue shape or size.
Because it documents the interior, it is also the sensible choice when a Level 1 turns up something that deserves a closer look, or when a leak or odor has no obvious cause.
What the results give you
You get a documented account of the flue's interior condition and the accessible structure, including where issues were found and where the view was limited. That is the basis for deciding whether the system is fit for continued use, needs repair such as relining, or needs a Level 3 to reach a suspected hidden problem.
A Level 2 is called for when
- A property is being sold or transferred
- There has been a chimney fire or a lightning strike
- A significant wind or seismic event may have caused damage
- The appliance, fuel, or flue is changing
- A Level 1 turned up something needing a closer look
- A leak or odor has no obvious cause
A Level 2 adds
- Everything covered in a Level 1
- A video camera scan of the internal flue surfaces and joints
- Examination of accessible areas in attics, crawl spaces, or basements
- A closer read of liner condition and joint integrity
- Documentation of interior conditions
- No demolition — it relies on access and a camera
Serving St. Louis & Kansas City
We provide level 2 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
Level 2 Chimney Inspection FAQs
I'm buying a house with a fireplace. Which inspection?
A property transfer is a classic Level 2 situation. The interior scan tells you the true condition of the flue rather than only what is visible from the hearth.
We had a small chimney fire. What now?
After any suspected chimney fire, a Level 2 is warranted before using the system again, because fire can crack liner tiles in ways you cannot see from below.
Does a Level 2 require any demolition?
No. It uses camera scanning and accessible openings. If a hidden hazard is suspected that cannot be reached this way, that is when a Level 3 is considered.
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
Level 2 Chimney Inspection near St. Louis
Available across the St. Louis service area, including:
Kansas City metro
Level 2 Chimney Inspection near Kansas City
Available across the Kansas City service area, including:
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Request level 2 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.