Level 1 Chimney Inspection

What a Level 1 inspection is

A Level 1 inspection is a visual check of the readily accessible parts of the chimney, the fireplace or appliance connected to it, and the flue. It is the level that fits when the chimney is in continued use, the fuel and appliance have not changed, and nothing has happened to it. You can read how the three levels compare on our chimney inspection page.

What we look at

• The firebox, hearth and the area around the opening
• The damper, and whether it opens, closes and seals
• The parts of the flue that can be seen from the firebox and the top
• The crown, cap, flashing and visible brick and mortar
• Signs of water, soot, creosote or animals
• Clearances and anything stored too close to the chimney

The goal is a straight answer to a simple question: is this chimney sound for continued use, and does it need cleaning or any repair?

Who it suits

• Homeowners who use a fireplace or stove regularly and want the yearly check
• A chimney that was serviced recently and has had no changes since
• Gas fireplaces and other appliances that vent through a chimney, where nothing has been altered
• Anyone who wants a baseline before the heating season

When Level 1 is not enough

A Level 1 inspection cannot see into parts of the chimney that are hidden or out of reach. It is not the right choice if any of these apply:

• The property is being bought or sold
• The appliance or fuel type is changing
• There has been a chimney fire, a lightning strike or storm damage
• You have smoke or odor problems that a quick look has not explained
• A previous inspection found something that needs a closer look

In those cases we recommend a Level 2 inspection, which includes the flue interior and the accessible areas of the house around the chimney. We tell you which level fits before we start, so you are not surprised.

What you receive

We explain what we found in plain language, area by area, and mark each one as fine, worth watching, or recommended for repair. If the chimney also needs sweeping, we say so, and the chimney sweep can often be arranged at the same visit. Repairs are only recommended when the findings support them, and the decision is yours.