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What Chimney Inspection Involves

A chimney inspection is a structured safety check of your entire chimney and venting system. Inspections follow NFPA guidelines and come in levels: a Level 1 covers readily accessible parts for an annually used system, while a Level 2 is a more detailed video-assisted check required after a home purchase or sale, a chimney fire, or any change to the appliance or flue. We always tell you which level your situation calls for — and why — before we begin.

• Level 1: visual check of readily accessible interior and exterior chimney and connections
• Level 2: everything in Level 1 plus a video scan of the flue and checks of accessible spaces
• Assessment of the liner, masonry, crown, cap, and clearances to combustibles
• Documentation of creosote level and any code or safety concerns
• A clear written summary you can use for a sale, insurance, or peace of mind

Signs You Need Chimney Inspection

You need an inspection when:

• You are buying or selling a home with a fireplace (a Level 2 is standard)
• You have had a chimney fire, a lightning strike, or a nearby earthquake or storm
• You changed your appliance, fuel type, or flue liner
• You see cracks in the crown or exterior brick, or rust on the damper or firebox
• It has simply been more than a year since the chimney was professionally checked

Our Chimney Inspection Process

• We confirm which inspection level your situation requires and explain why
• We examine the accessible interior and exterior of the chimney and connections
• For a Level 2 we run a video camera the full length of the flue
• We document every finding with photos and clear notes
• We walk you through what is safe, what needs attention, and what can wait

Why Central Chimney Service

Every job is handled by the team behind James Rodriguez — a Plainfield native with 29 years in the trade. We are fully insured and bonded, we explain what we find in plain language, and we never sell you work you do not need. That is how we have earned trust across the Plainfield area.

Related Services

Chimney Sweeping · Chimney Relining · Chimney Repair

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Level 1 and Level 2 inspection?

A Level 1 is a visual check of readily accessible parts for a chimney in continued service under the same conditions. A Level 2 adds a video scan of the flue and is required for home sales, after a chimney fire, or when the system changes.

Do I need a chimney inspection to sell my house?

Most buyers, agents, and inspectors expect a Level 2 chimney inspection during a sale. It documents the chimney’s condition and protects you from surprise claims after closing.

How long does a chimney inspection take?

A Level 1 usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. A Level 2 with a video scan takes about an hour, sometimes longer if the flue is long or heavily sooted.

How much does a chimney inspection cost?

It depends on the level and access. See our pricing page for current starting prices, or call (815) 305-5510 and we will explain what your situation needs before booking.

Can you inspect a chimney I have never used?

Yes, and you should have it done before the first fire. Unused chimneys often hide animal nests, deteriorated liners, and blockages that make burning unsafe.

Will an inspection tell me if my chimney is safe to use?

Yes. That is the whole point — we check the liner, masonry, and clearances and tell you plainly whether it is safe to burn, and what to fix if it is not.

Do you do inspections after a chimney fire?

Yes, and you should never use the chimney again until it is checked. A chimney fire can crack the liner and masonry in ways you cannot see, which a Level 2 video scan reveals.

Is an inspection the same as a sweep?

No. A sweep cleans; an inspection evaluates condition and safety. They are often done together, but each serves a different purpose. See our chimney sweep service.

Book Chimney Inspection in Plainfield

Call a real local team 7 days a week. We will give you a straight answer and the soonest available time.

Published July 21, 2026