What the inspection covers
Inspection is generally free when paired with a cleaning or repair visit. A standalone inspection, such as for a home purchase or sale, is a paid service. We do not publish prices online, so please call for details.
- Check the flue and liner for cracks, gaps or damage
- Look at the crown, cap and masonry from the exterior
- Check for blockages, creosote buildup or animal nests
- Confirm the chimney is drafting properly
- Give you a detailed report of what we found
Why it matters: A hidden crack, blockage or damaged liner can lead to smoke, carbon monoxide or fire risk in your home. A regular inspection helps catch problems early. Tip: If you are buying or selling a home, or it has been a while since your last inspection, schedule one before you use the fireplace.
Our chimney inspection process
- Internal camera inspection of the flue and liner
- Exterior inspection of the roof, chimney, cap and crown
- We check for blockages, creosote buildup and damage
- We explain what we found and answer your questions
- You receive a detailed written report
Tip: Scheduling your inspection before heating season helps catch small issues before they become bigger repairs. See examples of completed work in Our Work.
Signs you need a chimney inspection
- A strong smoke smell inside the home
- Black soot around the fireplace
- Difficulty starting or maintaining a fire
- Excessive smoke coming back into the room
- Visible creosote buildup
- Animal noises or debris in the chimney
Safety note: If smoke enters the home or your carbon monoxide detector sounds, stop using the fireplace immediately and call a professional. In an emergency, call 911.
Related guides
- Level 1, 2 and 3 chimney inspections explained
- Chimney inspection when buying or selling a home
- Chimney camera inspections: what they show
Where we do this work
Local guides: Westfield, Cranford, South Orange, Union, Paterson, or see all North Jersey towns. For homes in South Jersey or Philadelphia, see how inspections fit local housing.
Questions
How often should I get my chimney inspected?
Once a year is a good general rule. If you are buying or selling a home, or it has been a while, schedule an inspection before your next fire.
What does an inspection include?
An internal camera inspection of the flue, an exterior inspection of the roof and chimney, and a detailed written report.
Do you inspect for cracks or structural issues?
Yes. We check the flue, liner, crown, cap and masonry for cracks, gaps and other damage, and note anything we find in your report.
Is the inspection free?
It is generally free when paired with a cleaning or repair visit. A standalone inspection, such as for a home purchase or sale, is a paid service. We do not publish prices online, so please call for details.
How long does an inspection take?
Most inspections take under an hour, depending on your chimney and fireplace setup.
Related services
Want your chimney inspected?
Book online, or call and tell us what you are seeing.