- Homebuyers should schedule a fireplace and chimney inspection since most standard home inspections don’t look at them closely.
- There are 3 levels of chimney inspections; make sure you’re getting the right one.
- The most common issues include creosote buildup, carbon monoxide leaks, structural damage, blockages, and moisture intrusion.
- Buyers can use inspection findings to negotiate repairs or credits before closing; homeowners should schedule inspections annually for safety and maintenance.
When touring homes, it’s easy to see a fireplace and imagine cold winters spent next to the warmth of a crackling fire with your favorite blanket. But what you don’t see could cost you.
That’s where a fireplace inspection, also called a chimney inspection, becomes important. A certified chimney inspector will examine everything from the firebox and hearth to the chimney flue, venting system, and exterior, ensuring it’s safe, functional, and ready to use.
For homebuyers, this additional inspection can reveal hidden safety hazards and alert you to expensive repairs before closing. And if you already own your home, getting it checked before your first fire of the season means the only thing you’ll have to worry about is whether to sip cocoa or mulled cider.
Do you need a fireplace inspection?
You need a fireplace inspection if your home has a fireplace or chimney or if you’re buying a home that has one. Even if you’re not using the fireplace, your home can still be at risk for indoor air pollution, chimney failure, or even catching fire.
A fireplace can look fine from the outside, but they go through more stress than you might realize: not only do they consistently hold intense heat, but they funnel out smoke and withstand the elements, year after year.
Redfin tip:
A fireplace and chimney inspection is a must before lighting a fire in your home. Lighting a fire in an uninspected fireplace can put you and your home at risk for a house fire or other health and safety problems. Look out for signs of a chimney fire like popping, crackling, or loud roar coming from the flue; dense smoke; and a distinct burning smell.
Common problems found during a chimney inspection
The most common issues found by a licensed fireplace inspector look like:
- Creosote buildup: A flammable residue from burning wood that can lead to dangerous chimney fires.
- Carbon monoxide leaks: Cracks or blockages can allow this odorless, deadly gas to enter your home and make you sick, whether your fireplace is gas or woodburning.
- Structural damage: Cracks in bricks, mortar, or flue liners can weaken the chimney and increase the risk of fire hazards.
- Blockages and debris: Nests, leaves, or animals can block airflow and cause smoke or gases to back up and be released into the house.
- Moisture and mold: If water or moisture slips into the structure, it can cause mold growth and degrade the chimney’s materials, even seeping into the house.
Even if you don’t use the fireplace often, problems from moisture damage or animal nests can pop up over time. Opting for a chimney inspection when buying a home or before going into the colder months makes sure you and your home are safe.
The different levels and costs of fireplace inspections
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sets the standard for chimney and fireplace inspections and breaks them down into three levels, according to The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). Which one you need depends on whether you’re just keeping up with maintenance, buying a home, or dealing with a major problem.
Level 1: 30–60 minutes, $75–$150
Quickest and cheapest; often included as part of a basic chimney sweep
If you’ve been using your fireplace regularly and haven’t changed the venting or fuel systems, a Level 1 inspection is usually enough. The inspector will look at the accessible components of the firebox, damper, and the parts of the chimney you can see. The goal here is to make sure nothing looks damaged or out of place, and that there aren’t any obvious safety hazards. Some home inspectors perform this basic check in their standard report and will recommend the next level of inspection if they come across red flags.
Level 2: 1–2 hours, $150–$500
More thorough; cost varies based on home size, camera use, and accessibility
If you’re buying or selling a home, or if changes have been made to the fireplace or chimney, a Level 2 inspection is the way to go. It includes everything in Level 1, plus a more comprehensive inspection with special tools or a video scan of the flue. A professional chimney inspector will also check the attic, crawl space, or basement areas around the chimney for signs of damage. This is the standard fireplace inspection for most homebuyers, and some insurance providers will need this level completed to know the fireplace and chimney are in good shape before closing.
Level 3: Varies — several hours or more, $1,000+
Because it can involve opening walls or masonry, the cost is dependent on how invasive the work needs to be
Level 3 inspections are rare, but they’re reserved for situations where there might be a serious problem or the chimney needs to be rebuilt. Level 3 fireplace inspections can require removing parts of the chimney or surrounding walls to see what’s going on inside. It’s more invasive, but if there’s something hidden, like severe internal damage or fire risk, it’s the only way to find it.
What is included in a fireplace inspection
When scheduling a fireplace and chimney inspection, keep in mind there is a difference between a chimney sweep and a chimney inspector. A chimney sweep cleans your fireplace and flue, while a licensed fireplace and chimney inspector is trained to look for any safety issues or other problems with your fireplace system.
On the report, you can expect the fireplace inspector to perform the following:
Structural check
The inspector will examine the firebox, chimney bricks, mortar, and lining for cracks, gaps, or damage that could compromise safety.
Flue inspection
Using flashlights or specialized cameras, they’ll look inside the flue to check for creosote buildup, cracks, or blockages that could lead to an unwanted fire or poor ventilation.
Draft and ventilation test
Proper airflow is crucial. The inspector will test the draft to make sure smoke and gases are venting correctly and not leaking back into your home.
Obstruction search
Animal nests, leaves, or debris can block the chimney. Inspectors carefully check for any blockages that might affect safety or efficiency.
Cap and damper evaluation
The chimney cap keeps out rain and animals, while the damper controls airflow. The inspector verifies both open, close, and seal properly to protect your home.
What to do after a fireplace and chimney inspection
Once the inspection is complete, you’ll receive a report with remarks about the condition of your fireplace and chimney, including any safety concerns.
The most common recommendations that come from a fireplace inspection include scheduling a professional chimney cleaning, repairing cracks or damaged liners, and upgrading parts like caps or dampers. Even if no major problems are found, setting up a regular maintenance schedule is key to keeping your fireplace safe and efficient.
If you’re buying a home, any big issues found during a fireplace inspection can be used during negotiations to ask for repairs or price adjustments before closing. Current homeowners should treat a fireplace and chimney inspection as a yearly check-in, ensuring cozy and worry-free fires for seasons to come.
FAQs about fireplace inspections
How often should a fireplace inspection be done?
The NFPA recommends at least one fireplace inspection per year, regardless of how often you use it. Even if a fireplace goes unused, they can still attract moisture damage and animal debris, or just wear out over time. It’s also a good idea to get your fireplace inspected following extreme weather events, if any changes were made to the chimney or ventilation, or before buying a home with a chimney.
Is a Level 2 fireplace inspection always necessary when buying?
A Level 2 fireplace (or chimney) inspection is highly recommended when buying or selling a home, and in some areas it’s required. Because standard home inspections don’t cover detailed chimney checks, getting a Level 2 inspection is a smart way to protect yourself from repairs and hazards later.
Even if you aren’t planning on using the fireplace, there could be other issues going on, like mold in the flue or a weak chimney, that could affect safety and the ability to get insurance.
What is the average cost of a chimney inspection?
A chimney inspection can range from $75–$500, depending on the level. Level 1 is the least expensive, Level 2 is the most common and is usually a few hundred dollars, while Level 3—used for serious issues—can run $1,000 or more.
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