Chicago’s freeze-thaw winters, sudden storms, and older housing stock take a real toll on chimneys — often in ways you can’t see from the ground. Chicago Chimney Sweep provides thorough chimney inspections for homeowners across the city and surrounding suburbs, catching small problems before they become expensive (or dangerous) ones. Whether you’re a new homeowner or just haven’t had your chimney checked in a few years, we’ll give you a clear, honest picture of its condition.
The 3 Levels of Chimney Inspection
Chimney inspections follow a standard framework (based on NFPA 211 guidelines) with three levels of depth, depending on your situation:
Level 1 – Routine/Visible: A basic visual check of the readily accessible portions of the chimney, flue, and connections — recommended annually for chimneys that have been regularly maintained and haven’t had any changes or issues.
Level 2 – Real Estate & Post-Incident: A more detailed inspection that includes a video scan of the flue interior, plus accessible attics, crawlspaces, and basements. This level is recommended for real estate transactions, after a chimney fire, following a severe weather event, or when changing the type of fuel or appliance connected to the chimney.
Level 3 – Structural/Invasive: The most thorough level, involving removal of certain components to fully evaluate suspected structural damage or hazards identified in a Level 1 or 2 inspection. This level is only recommended when a serious concern has already been flagged.
What We Check
- Flue liner condition (cracks, gaps, or deterioration)
- Creosote buildup and glazing
- Cracks, spalling, or other damage to masonry
- Chimney cap and crown condition
- Clearance to combustible materials
- Damper function and seal
- Overall structural integrity of the chimney system
When You Need an Inspection
- Annual maintenance, ideally before heating season
- Before buying or selling a home
- After a chimney fire, however small
- After severe weather — high winds, lightning, or heavy ice and snow
- Before the first use of the season
Why Choose Chicago Chimney Sweep
We treat every inspection like we’re looking after our own home — no scare tactics, no pressure, just a clear assessment of what’s actually going on with your chimney.
- Certified technicians
- Licensed and insured
- Detailed written inspection reports
- Honest recommendations, with no upselling
Service Areas
Chicago Chimney Sweep proudly serves Chicago, IL and the surrounding suburbs, including Evanston, Oak Park, Naperville, Cicero, Schaumburg, Skokie, Berwyn, and Elmhurst.
Don’t wait for a problem to show up mid-winter — schedule your chimney inspection with Chicago Chimney Sweep today and get peace of mind before the cold sets in.