Chimney Inspection Types

According to NFPA 211—the National Fire Protection Association’s standard for chimneys, fireplaces, vents, and solid-fuel–burning appliances—there are three distinct levels of chimney inspections, each suited to different circumstances.

At Soot Soldiers, we follow these nationally recognized standards to ensure every inspection is thorough, code-compliant, and tailored to your home’s specific needs.

Level 1 Chimney Inspection – The Basic Annual Checkup

A Level 1 inspection is the most common and routine type. It’s recommended once per year for systems that haven’t changed and are in regular use.

What’s included:

- A visual inspection of accessible parts of the chimney and appliance

- Examination of the firebox, flue, damper, and other readily accessible components

- Checking for signs of deterioration, creosote buildup, and obstructions

When to schedule one:

- No changes have been made to the chimney system

- You regularly use your fireplace or wood stove without issues

- You're due for your annual chimney maintenance

Level 2 Chimney Inspection – For Real Estate, Fires, and Changes

A Level 2 inspection is more in-depth and includes everything from Level 1 plus additional diagnostics. This level is required under certain conditions:

Schedule a Level 2 if:

- You're buying or selling a home

- A chimney fire, earthquake, or major storm has occurred

- You've made changes to your appliance or fuel type

- Your chimney was recently relined or altered

What we do:

- Perform a full Level 1 inspection

- Conduct a video scan of the flue using specialized cameras

- Inspect accessible portions of attics, crawlspaces, and basements connected to the chimney

At Soot Soldiers, Level 2 inspections are our go-to for uncovering hidden damage and ensuring your chimney is transfer-ready.

Level 3 Chimney Inspection – Deep-Dive for Structural Concerns

A Level 3 inspection is the most extensive and is only performed when there are serious safety concerns that can’t be assessed any other way. This may involve removal of building materials to access concealed areas.

A Level 3 inspection may be necessary if:

- There's evidence of major structural damage

- You're dealing with persistent performance issues

- Prior inspections have revealed serious safety concerns

What’s included:

- Full Level 1 and Level 2 services

- Access to hidden or enclosed areas (walls, masonry, etc.)

- Investigative work to uncover and diagnose hard-to-see hazards

Trust the Pros at Soot Soldiers

Whether you’re preparing to sell your home, concerned after a storm, or just due for an annual checkup, the team at Soot Soldiers is here to keep your chimney clean, safe, and up to code.

We’re CSIA-certified and follow all NFPA 211 standards, so you can rest easy knowing your home and family are protected.

👉 Need a chimney inspection? [Contact us today](#) and we’ll help you determine which level is right for your situation.