Start with the inspection scope
Some chimney assessments involve rooftop examination; others have a different scope. CSIA’s Level 1 factory-built fireplace guidance states that rooftop access is not required for that inspection. Its Level 2 factory-built chimney guidance includes examination from the roof. These examples show why the system and inspection level matter.
Ask the provider which scope is recommended for your chimney and why. Do not infer that every visit without roof access is incomplete, or that a visit involving a ladder examined every part of the system.
Sources: CSIA Level 1 factory-built fireplace guidance and Level 2 factory-built chimney guidance (PDFs, revised April 5, 2019; reviewed October 29, 2026). These are professional references for the systems named, not a determination of your home’s inspection requirements.
Tell the provider why you are arranging the visit
A routine maintenance enquiry and a concern about a damaged component above the roof give the provider different questions to answer. Say whether you are planning regular service, following up on a report, investigating a leak or discussing a change in appliance.
For example: “I need routine service and do not know the last inspection date” gives useful context. So does “The report identifies a concern with the cap and recommends further assessment.” Ask how the proposed visit will address the specific reason you called.
If you are purchasing a home, our home-buyer inspection guide covers a separate planning conversation. Do not substitute a shorter visit simply because it sounds easier to arrange.
Confirm access arrangements before appointment day
Ask the company what access it expects to need and what information you can supply in advance. Share the property type, which fireplace or appliance is involved and any known restrictions on access to the property. Existing photographs taken safely from ground level may help the provider plan.
- Which areas does the proposed assessment cover?
- Does the planned work require roof access or access elsewhere in the home?
- What should I arrange with a property manager or building representative?
- What would happen if the planned access is unavailable?
- Will a changed scope, return visit or additional charge be discussed before proceeding?
Let the service company determine safe access arrangements. Do not climb onto the roof, place a ladder or remove components in preparation unless the provider has clarified an appropriate task you can safely perform.
Ask what an access limitation means for the findings
If an area could not be examined, request a clear record of which area, why access was limited and how that affects the conclusions. Ask whether further assessment is recommended and who will arrange it.
Consider a visit booked to investigate a concern at the chimney top. If the provider cannot complete the intended examination, ask which work was completed and which question remains unanswered. Keep that distinction in the report and invoice rather than treating an appointment as a completed answer to every concern.
Our inspection report guide helps connect the scope, observations and limits. An unexamined area remains an open item.
Keep the service record tied to the agreement
After the visit, compare the completion notes with the agreed scope. If you are unsure what was done, ask the provider to explain the methods used, the parts examined and any recommendations. A specific clarification is more useful than judging the whole service by whether someone went onto the roof.
For a New York chimney inspection enquiry, include your ZIP code, the system type if known and the reason for the visit. Mention access restrictions and any existing report. Ask Brickhaven to confirm the available scope and arrangements before the appointment.
Your questions, answered.
Does every chimney inspection require a ladder?
No. Access depends on the inspection scope and system. Ask the professional what is recommended for your property and what the visit will cover.
Does roof access prove every part of the chimney was examined?
No. Read the documented scope and limitations, and ask which areas were examined. Roof access alone is not a complete account of the inspection.
What if the planned access is unavailable?
Ask the provider to document the work completed, the areas not examined and the recommended next step. Confirm any revised scope or return visit before agreeing to it.