What it is, in plain English
An inspection is not the same as a sweep. NFPA 211 defines a tiered inspection standard, and the level you need depends on the situation. Level 1 is an annual visual check of accessible portions: cap, crown, flue interior from below, firebox, damper, and clearances. Level 2 adds a video-camera scan of the entire flue interior and is what the standard calls for in a real-estate transaction, after a chimney fire, after a natural disaster like an earthquake, or any time you change the fuel type or the appliance. We do both, usually with same-week availability, and every inspection comes with a written, photo-documented report you can hand to a buyer, seller, realtor, or insurance adjuster.
What's included
- Level 1: annual visual inspection of all accessible parts
- Level 2: video-camera scan of the full flue — what NFPA 211 calls for in real-estate transactions, post-fire, post-disaster, or any fuel/appliance change
- Written report with photos, findings, and clear recommendations
- Realtor-friendly format that drops into a transaction inspection package
- Same-week scheduling whenever possible — we do our best to work around closing deadlines
Pricing
Inspection only
For when you don't need a sweep — recent cleaning, real-estate transaction, post-fire, or annual peace of mind. Same thorough inspection, camera scan, and written report as the combo, without the sweep.
Frequently asked
Which inspection level do I need?
If you burn regularly and want annual peace of mind, Level 1. If you're buying, selling, or refinancing a home with a chimney, NFPA 211 calls for a Level 2 — the camera scan is what catches the issues a visual check can't. If you've had a chimney fire, an earthquake, a tornado, or you're switching from wood to gas (or vice versa), Level 2 applies there too. When in doubt, call us — we'll tell you what's right for your situation.
Do I really need a Level 2 inspection for a home sale?
Yes. NFPA 211 Section 15.3 calls for a Level 2 inspection upon any change of property ownership — that's the standard responsible inspectors follow. A standard home inspector's quick visual look at a fireplace is not a Level 2; that's a Level 1 at best, and it can miss issues like cracked flue tiles, separated joints, or hidden creosote that turn up in older Omaha homes. Those are much easier to deal with before the sale than after.
How long does an inspection take?
Level 1 is usually 30–45 minutes. Level 2 — with the camera scan — runs 60–90 minutes.
What's in the written report?
Every inspection delivers a PDF report with photos throughout, the findings categorized by severity (informational / monitor / repair recommended / urgent), and clear next-step recommendations. For real-estate transactions we typically deliver within 24 hours — if you're up against a closing deadline, tell us and we'll do our best to rush it.
What if you find damage during the inspection?
We document it, explain what it means, and tell you whether it's something to monitor, something to schedule for repair, or something that needs immediate attention before the next fire. Sweeping and inspection are our core; for larger work like masonry or structural repair we'll talk through whether we can take it on directly or refer you to a specialist. No upselling, no scare tactics.