Chimney inspections.
A closer look at your home.

Start with the reason for your inspection

Tell the professional whether you are arranging routine maintenance, investigating a change, or reviewing a property you have recently bought. Share any previous reports and explain what has changed since the last visit. That context helps establish the appropriate inspection scope.

An inspection is different from a cleaning appointment. If both are needed, ask for the estimate to distinguish the assessment from the work involved in removing deposits.

Agree on the scope before the visit

Chimney inspections are not all identical. Ask the professional to explain the proposed inspection level, the areas that will be examined, any camera work, and any access limitations. The CSIA describes distinct inspection levels with different requirements. Read its explanation of inspection scope.

• Which accessible parts of the chimney and fireplace will be examined?
• Will the flue interior be evaluated with a camera?
• What happens if part of the system cannot be accessed?
• Will you receive written findings and supporting photographs?

Make the findings useful

Ask for findings to be explained in plain language, with the location and nature of any concern identified. A useful discussion separates what was observed from what needs further investigation. Before authorizing repairs, request the proposed scope and an explanation of how it relates to the findings.

If the assessment identifies masonry or roof-junction concerns, our chimney repair overview explains the topics to discuss. For comparing charges, use the cleaning and inspection estimate checklist.

Your questions, answered.