Not all chimney problems are visible from the fireplace opening. Our comprehensive chimney inspections evaluate the condition of the flue, chimney structure, venting system, and fireplace components. We offer inspections for routine maintenance, real estate transactions, insurance documentation, and troubleshooting performance issues. Using advanced camera technology when needed, we identify hidden defects before they become costly repairs or safety hazards.
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Fireplace & Chimney Inspections
Fireplace & Chimney Inspections
The Most Important Service You Can Schedule
The Most Important Service You Can Schedule
Most homeowners don't think about their chimney until something goes wrong.
A water leak appears on the ceiling.
Smoke starts backing into the house.
A gas fireplace won't light.
An animal moves in.
Or worse—a chimney fire occurs.
The problem is that most chimney and fireplace defects develop slowly and quietly. What appears perfectly normal from the living room may be hiding serious safety concerns above the roofline or inside the chimney itself.
That's why professional inspections are so important.
At Mister Sweep, inspections are more than a quick look with a flashlight. Our certified professionals evaluate the entire fireplace and chimney system to identify hidden defects, safety hazards, water intrusion, structural concerns, and performance issues before they become expensive repairs.
Why Annual Inspections Matter
Why Annual Inspections Matter
Your chimney system is exposed to some of the harshest conditions anywhere on your home.
Every year it endures:
• Rain
• Snow
• Ice
• Wind
• Extreme temperatures
• Moisture intrusion
• Combustion byproducts
• Animal activity
• Freeze-thaw cycles
Even if you don't use your fireplace often, damage can still occur.
An annual inspection helps ensure your system remains safe, functional, and ready when you need it.
Hidden Problems We Find Every Day
Hidden Problems We Find Every Day
Many chimney problems show no obvious symptoms.
Common issues discovered during inspections include:
• Cracked chimney liners
• Water intrusion
• Missing chimney caps
• Animal nests
• Deteriorated masonry
• Crown damage
• Flashing failures
• Creosote accumulation
• Unsafe clearances
• Damaged fireboxes
• Venting defects
• Carbon monoxide hazards
• Previous chimney fire damage
Most homeowners are surprised to learn these conditions existed without any visible warning signs.
What Is Included in a Fireplace & Chimney Inspection?
What Is Included in a Fireplace & Chimney Inspection?
Our inspections evaluate every accessible component of the system.
This includes:
✓ Firebox
✓ Smoke chamber
✓ Damper
✓ Flue liner
✓ Chimney structure
✓ Chimney crown
✓ Chimney cap
✓ Flashing
✓ Masonry
✓ Venting systems
✓ Chase covers
✓ Attic and roof interfaces (when accessible)
✓ Appliance connections
✓ Safety concerns
✓ Water intrusion evidence
Our goal is to provide a complete picture of your system's condition.
Level 1 Chimney Inspection
Level 1 Chimney Inspection
Recommended for Routine Maintenance
Recommended for Routine Maintenance
A Level 1 inspection is typically performed when:
• No changes have been made to the system
• The appliance is operating normally
• The homeowner continues using the system as intended
The inspection includes:
✓ Examination of readily accessible components
✓ Verification of proper operation
✓ Identification of visible defects
✓ Safety evaluation
✓ Maintenance recommendations
For many homeowners, an annual Level 1 inspection is the best way to stay ahead of potential problems.
Level 2 Chimney Inspection
Level 2 Chimney Inspection
The Most Common Real Estate & Safety Inspection
The Most Common Real Estate & Safety Inspection
A Level 2 inspection is significantly more comprehensive and includes specialized camera equipment.
Recommended when:
• Buying a home
• Selling a home
• After a chimney fire
• After severe weather
• After earthquake activity
• Following major system modifications
• When defects are suspected
In addition to Level 1 procedures, a Level 2 inspection includes:
✓ Internal video scanning
✓ Evaluation of concealed flue surfaces
✓ Detailed defect documentation
✓ Inspection of accessible attics, basements, and crawlspaces
✓ Verification of proper installation and clearances
Many hidden hazards can only be discovered through a Level 2 inspection.
Level 3 Chimney Inspection
Level 3 Chimney Inspection
When Serious Concerns Exist
When Serious Concerns Exist
A Level 3 inspection is performed when significant hazards are suspected and concealed areas must be accessed.
Examples include:
• Severe fire damage
• Structural collapse concerns
• Hidden defects
• Significant water intrusion
• Suspected code violations
This level of inspection may require limited removal of building materials to properly evaluate conditions.
Video Camera Inspections
Video Camera Inspections
One of the most valuable tools in modern chimney inspection is the chimney camera.
Many of the most dangerous defects occur inside the flue where homeowners cannot see them.
Video scanning allows us to identify:
• Cracked flue tiles
• Missing liner sections
• Water damage
• Chimney fire damage
• Blockages
• Animal intrusion
• Construction defects
• Venting issues
Seeing the inside of the chimney often reveals problems that would otherwise remain hidden.
Fireplace Inspections
Fireplace Inspections
A fireplace is more than just a chimney.
Our inspections evaluate:
• Firebox condition
• Refractory panels
• Firebrick
• Gas burner systems
• Ignition components
• Dampers
• Glass doors
• Hearth protection
• Safety clearances
• Structural integrity
Whether wood-burning or gas, every fireplace should be inspected regularly.
Water Intrusion Evaluations
Water Intrusion Evaluations
Water is the number one enemy of every chimney.
During inspections we evaluate:
✓ Chimney caps
✓ Crowns
✓ Masonry
✓ Flashing
✓ Chase covers
✓ Waterproofing conditions
✓ Leak indicators
✓ Interior damage
Finding moisture issues early can prevent thousands of dollars in future repairs.
Animal Intrusion Inspections
Animal Intrusion Inspections
Your chimney may be attractive to:
• Chimney Swifts
• Bats
• Raccoons
• Squirrels
• Opossums
• Birds
• Rats
• Mice
• Snakes
Animal activity can create:
• Blockages
• Disease risks
• Odors
• Fire hazards
• Structural damage
We identify entry points and recommend solutions to keep wildlife out.
Carbon Monoxide & Safety Concerns
Carbon Monoxide & Safety Concerns
One of the most important goals of any inspection is identifying conditions that may affect safe venting.
Defects can lead to:
• Smoke backup
• Poor draft
• Combustion problems
• Carbon monoxide exposure
• Appliance performance issues
These concerns often exist without obvious warning signs.
Home Buyers: Don't Skip the Chimney Inspection
Home Buyers: Don't Skip the Chimney Inspection
A home inspection is not a chimney inspection.
Many serious chimney defects are impossible to identify during a general home inspection.
We've inspected homes where buyers discovered:
• Damaged liners
• Major water intrusion
• Unsafe fireplaces
• Hidden structural failures
• Chimneys requiring complete rebuilding
A professional chimney inspection can prevent expensive surprises after closing.
What You'll Receive
What You'll Receive
Following the inspection, you'll receive:
✓ Detailed findings
✓ Photos
✓ Video documentation (when applicable)
✓ Safety recommendations
✓ Repair recommendations
✓ Maintenance recommendations
✓ Professional guidance
We believe homeowners should fully understand the condition of their system before making decisions.
Chance Loves Uninspected Chimneys
Chance Loves Uninspected Chimneys
Chance doesn't want homeowners looking too closely.
He loves:
❌ Hidden water damage
❌ Cracked liners
❌ Animal nests
❌ Structural defects
❌ Missing chimney caps
❌ Creosote buildup
❌ Unsafe fireplaces
❌ Expensive surprises
The longer problems remain hidden, the more costly they become.
Steve Finds Problems Before They Find You
Steve Finds Problems Before They Find You
Steve knows that the best repair is the one you never have to make.
That's why inspections are one of the most valuable services we offer.
Our certified chimney professionals use advanced equipment, extensive training, and years of experience to identify issues early and provide honest recommendations that help homeowners make informed decisions.
No scare tactics.
No high-pressure sales.
Just professional inspections and straightforward answers.
Peace of Mind Starts With an Inspection
Peace of Mind Starts With an Inspection
Whether you're buying a home, preparing for the heating season, experiencing performance issues, or simply haven't had your chimney inspected in years, now is the perfect time to schedule an evaluation.
Protect your home.
Protect your family.
Protect your investment.
Let Steve uncover the hidden problems before Chance turns them into expensive repairs.
📞 (612) 552-2848
🏠 Local. Reliable. Trusted.
🔥 We Keep Your Home Safe and Your Fires Burning.
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