Level I Chimney Inspection

$69

A Level I inspection is our standard visual evaluation for a chimney or fireplace that is accessible and being used under normal conditions. The technician examines accessible portions of the system and looks for visible defects, deterioration, maintenance needs and other conditions that may require attention.

The Level I Chimney Inspection is $69. The inspection fee will be waived with any completed job.

What the Inspection Includes

• Visual evaluation of accessible chimney and fireplace components.
• Review of the firebox and accessible interior fireplace areas.
• Exterior evaluation of accessible chimney masonry and mortar joints.
• Review of the chimney crown and visible termination components.
• Photos of visible defects or areas of concern when appropriate.
• Written findings and clear recommendations based on the conditions observed.

After the Inspection

Once the inspection is complete, the technician reviews the findings with you and explains any visible concerns in straightforward language. If repairs or maintenance are recommended, you will receive a clear description of the condition and the proposed work.

Why a Professional Inspection Is Valuable

Many chimney problems develop above the roofline or inside areas a homeowner cannot easily see. A professional inspection gives you a documented evaluation of accessible components instead of relying only on what is visible from the room.

Photos and Clear Findings

When relevant defects are found, photos can help show crown damage, deteriorated masonry, cap problems and other difficult-to-see conditions. The technician explains what was observed, why it matters and what work is recommended, if any.

What a Level I Inspection Does Not Include

A Level I inspection is primarily a visual evaluation of accessible areas. It does not automatically include a complete internal camera scan of the flue. When the condition or history of the chimney calls for a closer internal examination, a Level II inspection may be recommended.

The $69 Inspection Fee

The fee covers the service visit, professional evaluation and documentation. The inspection fee will be waived with any completed job.

Level I Scope in Plain Language

A Level I inspection is a visual examination of readily accessible portions of the chimney and accessible portions of the connected fireplace or appliance and its chimney connection. Readily observable areas of the flue may be viewed through existing openings. It is not the same as scanning the full flue liner with a camera.

When Level I Fits

A Level I inspection is generally associated with continued use under the same operating conditions when a more invasive level of inspection is not indicated. If the system history, visible condition, an incident, or a change in use creates unanswered questions, a higher level of inspection may be appropriate.

Why We Avoid Calling a Chimney 'Safe' From One Quick Look

A visual inspection can document what is accessible at that level, but concealed areas and portions of the flue that cannot be adequately viewed are outside the limits of a Level I inspection. The report should describe observed conditions without pretending inaccessible construction was examined.

NFPA 211: What Level I Means

NFPA 211 establishes levels for inspection of existing chimneys. Level I is the basic level and focuses on readily accessible portions of the chimney and accessible portions of the connected appliance or fireplace and its connection. It is appropriate when the system is expected to continue under the same basic conditions and there is no reason requiring a more detailed level. A Level I inspection does not mean that every concealed surface or the entire interior liner has been camera-scanned. If the accessible inspection reveals a condition that cannot be adequately evaluated at Level I, the next recommendation can be a Level II inspection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Know the Condition Before You Keep Using the Chimney

A Level I inspection is a practical starting point when the chimney is continuing under the same basic use and there is no known event or change that calls for a more detailed inspection. The purpose is to document readily accessible conditions, explain visible concerns, and tell you when the limits of a Level I inspection mean a closer Level II evaluation would be more appropriate.