A chimney inspection checks your flue, liner, and venting for cracks, buildup, and blockages that could cause a fire or carbon monoxide leak. The CSIA recommends one every year. Inspections follow the NFPA 211 standard in three levels — Level 1 for routine use, Level 2 for sales or after an event, and Level 3 for serious hidden hazards. Chimney Sweep Squad inspects across McHenry, IL. Call (815) 420-6665.
Why yearly inspection is worth it
Most chimney problems are invisible from the living room. A hairline crack in the flue liner, a bird nest wedged above the damper, or a slowly failing crown can all let heat, water, or combustion gases go where they shouldn’t. A yearly inspection finds these early, while they are a small repair instead of a dangerous — and expensive — failure.
The three inspection levels (NFPA 211)
| Level | When it applies | What it involves |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Chimney in regular use, no changes | Visual check of readily accessible interior and exterior parts |
| Level 2 | Home sale, fuel/appliance change, after a chimney fire or weather event | Level 1 plus video scan of the flue and accessible attic/crawl/basement areas |
| Level 3 | Suspected serious, hidden hazard | Level 2 plus removal of parts of the structure to reach the concealed area |
What we check
We go through the flue and liner, damper, smoke chamber, firebox, cap, crown, and exterior masonry, looking for creosote, cracks, blockages, water intrusion, and venting faults. For anything we can’t see from the openings, we run a camera down the flue so you get a documented, honest picture of its condition.
After a chimney fire or a CO alarm
If you’ve had a chimney fire — even one that seemed to put itself out — or a carbon monoxide alarm has gone off, do not use the fireplace until it has a Level 2 inspection. Fires often crack the liner invisibly. See our emergency guide first if the event is active.
Frequently asked questions
How often should a chimney be inspected?
The CSIA recommends a chimney inspection every year, regardless of fuel type. Annual inspection catches creosote buildup, cracks, blockages, and venting problems early — long before they turn into a fire, a leak, or a carbon monoxide hazard.
What is the difference between Level 1, 2, and 3 inspections?
Level 1 is a visual check of readily accessible parts for a chimney in regular use. Level 2 adds video scanning and covers sales, changes to the system, or after an event like a chimney fire. Level 3 involves removing parts of the structure to reach a suspected serious hazard.
When do I need a Level 2 inspection?
You need a Level 2 inspection when buying or selling a home, after you change fuels or install a new appliance or liner, and after any event that could have damaged the chimney, such as a chimney fire, a lightning strike, or an earthquake.
Do gas fireplaces need inspection too?
Yes. Gas produces little soot but its venting can still crack, corrode, or become blocked by nests and debris, and a blocked gas flue can push carbon monoxide back into the home. A yearly inspection confirms the system vents safely.
What do you check during an inspection?
We examine the flue, liner, damper, smoke chamber, firebox, cap, crown, and the exterior masonry, and we look for creosote, cracks, blockages, water damage, and venting faults. On a Level 2 we run a camera down the flue to document its interior condition.
Will you tell me if my chimney is unsafe to use?
Yes, plainly. If we find a condition that makes the chimney unsafe — such as a cracked liner, heavy creosote, or a blockage — we tell you to stop using it, explain why, and lay out your repair options without pressure.
Is an inspection included with a sweep?
A standard visit usually pairs a Level 1 inspection with the sweep, since a clean flue is easier to evaluate. If we find signs of a deeper problem, we may recommend a Level 2 camera inspection to see the full picture.
How much does a chimney inspection cost?
Cost depends on the inspection level and your chimney’s access and condition. A Level 1 visual inspection is the most affordable; Level 2 camera work costs more because it is more thorough. Call (815) 420-6665 for a quote.
Schedule your inspection
Know your chimney is safe before you light the next fire. NFPA 211 inspections, 7 days a week.
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Published November 10, 2026 · Reviewed by Joseph Ino, Founder & Master Chimney Technician, Chimney Sweep Squad