Most Cleveland homeowners don't think about their chimney until something goes wrong — a leak, a smell, or smoke backing up into the house. But a chimney inspection is the most important preventive step you can take to protect your home and family. Here's what you need to know.
The Three Levels of Chimney Inspection
The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) defines three levels of chimney inspection. The level you need depends on your situation:
Level 1 Inspection — Annual Maintenance
A Level 1 inspection is the standard annual inspection for a chimney that's been in regular use with no changes. The inspector visually examines all accessible portions of the chimney interior and exterior, checking for:
- Proper clearances from combustibles
- Soundness of the chimney structure
- Basic appliance installation and connections
- Freedom from obstructions and combustible deposits
Cost in Cleveland: $100–$200. Most CSIA-certified sweeps include a Level 1 inspection with a chimney cleaning.
Level 2 Inspection — Buying or Selling a Home
A Level 2 inspection is required when you're buying or selling a home, after a chimney fire, after a natural disaster, or when making changes to the system (new liner, new appliance, fuel type change). It includes everything in Level 1 plus:
- Video scanning of the flue interior
- Inspection of accessible attic, crawl space, and basement areas
- Examination of all accessible portions of the chimney exterior and interior
Cost in Cleveland: $200–$400. The video scan is what makes Level 2 valuable — it reveals cracks, deterioration, and blockages invisible to the naked eye.
Level 3 Inspection — Suspected Hidden Damage
A Level 3 inspection is the most invasive and is only performed when there's reason to believe there's damage in a concealed area. It may require removing portions of the chimney, walls, or ceiling to access the area in question.
Cost in Cleveland: $500–$2,000+. Level 3 inspections are rare and typically follow a chimney fire or structural event.
When You Need a Chimney Inspection in Cleveland
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 211) recommends annual chimney inspections for all chimneys, fireplaces, and venting systems. In Cleveland specifically, we recommend:
- Every fall before you start using your fireplace or furnace for the heating season
- Before buying a home — always request a Level 2 inspection as part of your home inspection
- After a chimney fire — even a small one can crack the flue liner
- After severe weather — Cleveland's ice storms and high winds can shift or crack masonry
- If you notice smoke, odors, or staining — these are signs of a problem that needs immediate attention
What a CSIA-Certified Inspector Checks
Michael McCloskey, Five Star's owner and CSIA-Certified Chimney Sweep (#12678), conducts every inspection personally. A thorough inspection covers:
- Chimney crown: Cracks, deterioration, and proper slope for water runoff
- Chimney cap: Presence, condition, and proper sizing
- Flashing: Seal integrity where the chimney meets the roof
- Mortar joints: Erosion, gaps, and spalling
- Flue liner: Cracks, deterioration, and obstructions
- Firebox: Condition of firebrick and refractory panels
- Damper: Operation and seal
- Smoke chamber: Corbeling condition and creosote buildup
What Happens After an Inspection
After completing the inspection, Five Star provides a written report with photos documenting any deficiencies found. We explain what each issue means, whether it's a safety concern or cosmetic, and provide a written estimate for any recommended repairs. There's no pressure to proceed — the report is yours to keep.
Call 216-468-4864 to schedule a CSIA-certified chimney inspection anywhere on Cleveland's west side.