Chimney Inspection in New Jersey
A chimney inspection checks whether your chimney, flue and fireplace are safe and sound to use, and finds problems early, before they turn into water damage or a fire hazard.
What a chimney inspection looks at
- The firebox and hearth
- The damper and smoke chamber
- The flue liner
- The crown, cap and flashing at the top of the chimney
- Brick, mortar joints and other masonry
- Signs of water entry in and around the chimney
When you may need one
- At least once a year, including a chimney you rarely use, because nests, debris and water damage do not depend on use
- Before you buy or sell a home
- After a chimney fire, a lightning strike or storm damage
- When you change the appliance or fuel type that uses the chimney
- If the chimney has not been used for a long time
- If you see water stains, crumbling brick or missing mortar
- If you notice smoke or odors coming into the house
Inspection levels
NFPA 211 describes three levels of chimney inspection. Which one fits depends on your situation:
- Level 1: the readily accessible parts of the chimney, for a chimney in continued use under the same conditions.
- Level 2: a closer examination, including accessible areas such as attics, crawl spaces and basements, and the flue interior. It applies when the appliance or fuel changes, when a property is sold, and after a malfunction or event that may have damaged the chimney.
- Level 3: used when a serious hazard is suspected, and it can involve opening up parts of the chimney or building.
We will tell you which level fits your situation before we begin.
How we explain what we find
Findings are easier to act on when they are clear. For each area we look at, we explain what we found and what it means:
✓ Looks good● Keep an eye on it⚠ Repair recommended
If something needs repair, we explain the options and link you to the right repair, such as chimney repair. You decide what happens next.
How Dr. Sweeper works
Inspect, document, explain, recommend, complete
- InspectWe look at the chimney, firebox and flue before anything is quoted.
- DocumentWe record what we find, so any recommendation ties to a real condition.
- ExplainWe walk you through the findings in plain language.
- RecommendWe recommend work the findings support, and say so when nothing is needed.
- CompleteWe carry out the work you approve and go over it with you.
Specific services
Level 1 Inspection
The yearly check for a chimney in normal use.
Learn moreLevel 2 Inspection
Includes the flue interior.
Learn moreBuying or Selling a Home
Know the chimney before a sale.
Learn moreFireplace Inspection
Firebox, damper, hearth and smoke chamber.
Learn moreAfter a Chimney Fire
Is the flue safe to use again?
Learn moreBefore a New Appliance
Will the flue suit a stove, insert or gas unit?
Learn moreLevel 3 Inspection
When a hazard cannot be judged without opening up the structure.
Learn moreWood Stove Inspection
Clearances, connector and flue.
Learn moreRelated services
Chimney Sweep & Cleaning
Remove soot and creosote and clear blockages.
Learn moreChimney Repair
Water entry, damaged masonry, crown, flashing and flue problems.
Learn moreChimney Liners
Options when the flue liner is damaged or missing.
Learn moreWe work throughout New Jersey. See our service areas, or browse all services.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
How often should a chimney be inspected?
NFPA 211, as quoted by the Chimney Safety Institute of America, says chimneys, fireplaces and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits and correct clearances. CSIA explains that this applies even to a chimney you hardly use, because animals can nest in the flue and other deterioration can set in. Inspect sooner if you notice smoke, odors, water stains or damage.
Is an inspection the same as a cleaning?
No. A cleaning removes soot and creosote. An inspection checks the condition of the chimney and flue. They are often done together, but they answer different questions.
Should I get a chimney inspection when buying a home?
It is worth considering. A general home inspection may be limited to what can be seen easily, while a chimney inspection looks more closely at the flue and the parts of the chimney that matter for safe use.
Do I need an inspection if I only use gas?
It depends on how the appliance vents. If a gas appliance vents into a chimney or flue, that flue can still be blocked by nests or debris or damaged by moisture, and CSIA recommends annual inspections for chimneys serving gas appliances. Not every gas fireplace uses a chimney: a direct-vent unit has its own sealed vent pipe, and an unvented unit has no vent at all. For those, the unit and its venting are serviced as the manufacturer directs. If you are not sure which you have, ask us when you book.
What happens if you find a problem?
We explain what we found and what it means, and give you the repair options. Nothing is done until you decide to go ahead.
How do I book an inspection?
Call us, or use Book Now to send a scheduling request. We will contact you to confirm a time. Your appointment is not confirmed until we do.
Ready to have your chimney looked at?
Call us, or send a scheduling request. We will contact you to confirm a time. Your appointment is not confirmed until we do.