Ensuring Safety and Functionality: Expert Chimney and Fireplace Inspections

Chimney inspections by Chimney Cricket are performed at three levels as specified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA):

Level 1 inspections - A Level 1 inspection is a routine inspection performed on a chimney and fireplace that has not undergone any changes. During a Level 1 inspection, your Chimney Cricket chimney sweep will examine portions of the chimney exterior that is easily accessible, and the accessible interior portions your chimney. They will assess the chimney's structure, flue, and any appliances. They will verify that the chimney is free of obstruction and combustible deposits.

Level 2 Inspections –A Level 2 is a more in-depth inspection than a Level 1 and is required when any changes are made to the fireplace and chimney. These changes include a change in the fuel type, chimney relining, or the replacement or addition of a heating appliance of a dissimilar type, input rating or efficiency.

A Level 2 inspection is also mandatory when a home is sold or after an event occurs that is likely to have caused damage to the chimney. Building fires, chimney fires, seismic events as well as weather events are all indicators that this level of inspection is needed for your chimney.

Chimney Cricket uses the Chim-Scan® video inspection system to perform a proper Level 2 inspection.

Chimney Cricket chimney sweeps will be able to show you these precarious conditions if they exist with Chim-Scan:

  • Improper new constructions
  • Chimney fire damage
  • Improper prefab chimney connections
  • Deterioration form gas appliance connections
  • Cracks, even hairline cracks, in flue liners
  • Broken or missing tile liners and mortar joints
  • Deterioration of the smoke shelf or damper
  • “Quick-fixed” thimble holes
  • Hidden breechings
  • Nests, limbs and other blockages

Level 3 Inspections– A Level 3 inspection includes the Level 1 and 2 inspection processes as well as the removal of certain areas of the building or chimney where necessary. Removal of chimney parts is required only when a chimney sweep needs to gain access to areas that are the subject of the inspection. When severe problems are suspected, a Level 3 inspection is used to more thoroughly assess the condition of the chimney system.

Water Test

A test that looks to find the source(s) of a roof or chimney leak. Chimney sweeps, with an assistant, use a standard hose to focus water on possible trouble areas while the second man observes from within the home or chimney area.

Trust your chimney and fireplace cleaning and inspection to the CSIA Certified professionals at Chimney Cricket.

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Embark on your masonry, hearth, and patio projects with confidence! At Chimney Cricket, we empower you to take charge of your fireplace maintenance and enhancements.

For those who prefer the hands-on approach, we offer a convenient online platform where you can effortlessly order high-quality parts to tackle your project's needs. Browse below!

Contact Form

Feel free to contact us at (800) 993-8905 for a complimentary estimate, or alternatively, you can fill out the contact form provided below.


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