Who Does Chimney Inspections?

Chimney inspections are important for keeping your chimney safe and functioning. Otherwise, problems like creosote buildup, cracked mortar joints, and leaks may go undetected for months or even years, leading to potential structural and safety issues. Scheduling an inspection annually will keep your home cozy and smoke-free. So who does chimney inspections? Here, we’ll go over the basics of chimney inspections so you can make sure you find the right person for the job.

Benefits of Hiring a Chimney Professional

Hiring a chimney professional offers several important benefits:

• Ensures your chimney is in safe, working order

• Prevents housefires and carbon monoxide poisoning

• Removes pests, debris, and dangerous creosote buildup

• Identifies issues with brick and mortar, damper system, and flue

• Reduces the risk of long-term structural damage and expensive repairs

• Prevents personal injury from DIY chimney cleaning

• Increases fireplace efficiency and extends the lifespan of the flue liner

• Ensures proper tools and techniques are used

• Meets homeowner insurance requirements when filing a claim

Can I DIY a Chimney Inspection?

If you’re looking to save money, you may be wondering if you can do a chimney inspection yourself. While it’s a good idea for any homeowner to perform regular checks of all their home systems, this is one area where it’s best left to the pros. You may feel comfortable checking the overall structure and function of the chimney yourself, but remember that certified professionals are trained to spot potential issues that you may not. Plus, walking around on the roof poses its own safety risks, and it’s just not worth it. 

The cost of a chimney inspection depends on the level of inspection you need, so there is a wide price range. Most local chimney professionals charge between $80 and $6,000 for an inspection, but the average chimney inspection cost is closer to $450. 

Can I Hire a Roofer to Inspect a Chimney?

A roofer may be able to do a chimney inspection depending on their certifications and the condition of your roof and chimney, though that’s not always the case. While an experienced roofer would likely notice external damage to your chimney or the surrounding area, that isn’t their primary focus. 

A roofer should be able to repair flashing and shingles around a chimney and may spot issues like water damage that you might miss. But, ultimately, it’s safer to hire a specialist, especially if you have an old brick or stone chimney that may require special maintenance.  

How Do Chimney Professionals Perform a Chimney Inspection?

Chimney inspections identify issues like blockages, creosote buildup, structural damage, and other potential hazards. The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) recognizes three levels of chimney inspections. Here’s what to expect from a chimney inspection: