Not all chimney inspections are the same. The national standard (NFPA 211) defines three levels, and knowing which one you need saves money and keeps your home safe.
Level 1: the annual checkup
A Level 1 inspection is for a chimney in regular use with no known problems. The technician visually checks the readily accessible parts of the chimney, flue, and connections for soundness, blockages, and creosote. It is included with a standard sweep and is what most homeowners need each year.
Level 2: sales, changes, and after events
A Level 2 inspection adds a video camera scan of the flue and a look at accessible attic, crawl space, and basement areas. It is required when you buy or sell a home, after a chimney fire or major storm, or when you change the appliance, fuel, or liner.
Level 3: serious suspected hazards
A Level 3 inspection is for serious hazards that can only be confirmed by opening up parts of the chimney or building. It is uncommon, and a good sweep will tell you honestly if a situation truly calls for it.
Which one do you need?
- Regular use, no known issues → Level 1 (with your annual sweep)
- Buying or selling a home → Level 2
- After a chimney fire or storm → Level 2
- Installing a new stove, insert, or liner → Level 2
Not sure which inspection you need?
Careful work, up-front pricing, seven days a week in La Grange and the western suburbs.
Call (708) 432-5330Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Level 2 to sell my house?
Yes, in nearly all cases. A home sale is one of the situations NFPA 211 specifically calls for a Level 2 inspection with a flue camera scan.
Is a Level 1 inspection enough?
For a chimney in normal use with no known problems, yes. A Level 1 with your annual sweep catches most issues before they become serious.
What does a camera scan show?
A flue camera reveals cracks, gaps, glazed creosote, and blockages inside the liner that cannot be seen from the firebox — the problems that make a chimney unsafe.
Do you offer all three levels?
We perform Level 1 and Level 2 inspections and will tell you honestly if a rare Level 3 situation applies.
Written by Adam Evans, owner of Chimney Sweep Brothers and a chimney technician with 12 years of experience serving La Grange, IL and the western suburbs.