Video Chimney Inspections: An Up-Close & Personal View of Your Chimney
Each video chimney inspection conducted by one of All Seasons Chimney’s Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) certified sweeps is completed by using a closed circuit camera that allows our sweeps (and our clients, of course) to get a very, very close look at the chimney and any of its problem areas. We use this camera during our inspections and following cleanings, which helps us verify that a chimney has been satisfactorily cleaned. To book a chimney inspection near you in the Poughkeepsie area, don’t hesitate to reach out.
What Are the Three Levels of Chimney Inspection? Which One Do I Need?
The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and NFPA 211 define three official levels of chimney inspection, each suited to different situations:
Level 1 Inspection
A level 1 is the most basic and is appropriate when your chimney system hasn’t changed and has been routinely maintained. It includes a visual examination of all readily accessible interior and exterior components – the firebox, damper, smoke chamber, accessible flue areas, crown, cap, and exterior masonry. No special tools or equipment removal is required. This level is typically performed as part of an annual chimney cleaning.
Level 2 Inspection
A level 2 is more comprehensive and is required by the NFPA in the following situations:
- You are buying or selling a home
- After a chimney fire, earthquake, or other event that may have damaged the system
- When making changes to the appliance, fuel type, or flue
- When a level 1 inspection reveals something that warrants closer examination
A level 2 inspection includes everything in a level 1, plus a video scan of the entire flue interior using a specialized camera system. This allows the technician to see inside areas of the flue that are otherwise completely inaccessible – identifying cracks, gaps, deteriorated liner joints, blockages, and more. At All Seasons Chimney, our chimney video inspection service fulfills the requirements of a level 2 inspection.
Level 3 Inspection
The most invasive level, a level 3 is reserved for cases where serious structural hazards are suspected. It may involve removing portions of the chimney structure, such as siding, interior walls, or the crown, to fully access and assess areas of concern. This level is uncommon but necessary when deeper damage is strongly indicated by a level 1 or 2 inspection.
What Happens During a Chimney Inspection?
You should only choose a Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) certified technician to work in your home, as the CSIA carefully trains and regulates its sweep companies to ensure that they follow all recommended safety guidelines during inspections. There are three levels of inspection outlined by the CSIA. Which level you receive will depend on the condition of your chimney, the problems detected or suspected, how long it’s been since your last inspection and sweeping, whether or not the home has recently changed hands, and whether or not you’ve suffered a chimney fire or a catastrophic weather event.
During each of our inspections, a certified technician will, at the bare minimum, do the following (though many of our inspections are more involved):
- Examine the readily-accessible parts of your chimney’s interior and exterior
- Examine readily-accessible parts of the heating appliance and the chimney connection
- Check to see how structurally sound your chimney and flue are
- Make sure that everything has been installed and connected correctly
- Verify that the chimney is not blocked by any obstructions or combustible deposits
What Warning Signs That My Chimney Needs an Inspection Right Away?
While annual inspections are the standard, certain signs indicate you should call All Seasons Chimney immediately – without waiting for your scheduled maintenance:
- White staining on the exterior (efflorescence): This chalky white residue appears when water moves through masonry and deposits minerals on the surface.
- Visible cracks in the chimney exterior: Cracks in the crown, mortar joints, or brick face indicate structural deterioration that can worsen rapidly.
- Smoke entering your home: If smoke regularly backs up into your living space, there is likely a flue blockage, draft problem, or structural issue requiring immediate attention.
- A strong, persistent odor: Musty, smoky, or tar-like smells can indicate significant creosote buildup or moisture intrusion in the flue.
- Damaged or missing chimney cap: Without a cap, your flue is open to rain, animals, and debris 24/7.
- Flaking or falling masonry: If you notice brick fragments, mortar pieces, or tile shards in your firebox, something has broken loose inside the flue — a serious concern.
- You’ve had a chimney fire: Loud cracking or popping sounds, a roaring noise, or extremely intense heat from the fireplace may indicate a chimney fire. Do not use the fireplace again until a full Level 2 video inspection has been completed.
- Animals in the chimney: Birds, raccoons, and squirrels can enter through uncapped flues and leave behind nesting material that blocks the flue entirely.
How Long Does a Chimney Inspection Take? How Should I Prepare?
A Level 1 inspection (visual only) typically takes 30–45 minutes when performed as part of a cleaning. A Level 2 video inspection generally takes 60–90 minutes, depending on the chimney’s height, accessibility, and the complexity of the findings. If additional components need to be examined or documented thoroughly, it may take longer.
How to prepare for your chimney inspection:
- Don’t use the fireplace for at least 24 hours beforehand. The firebox and flue need to be cool enough for safe, close-up examination.
- Remove decorative items near the fireplace. Glass doors, fireplace screens, and decorative logs or grates may need to be temporarily moved to allow full access to the firebox.
- Ensure access to the roofline is available. For Level 2 inspections, your technician may need to access the chimney from the roof, so note any access challenges (steep pitch, recent snow, etc.) when scheduling.
- Have your records ready. If you have records of previous inspections, repairs, or any incidents (chimney fires, unusual odors), having those on hand can help your technician understand the history of the system.
- Be home for the findings review. We recommend being present at the end of the inspection so your technician can walk you through the footage and findings in person, answer your questions, and help you understand any recommended next steps.
What Happens After a Chimney Inspection? What if Problems Are Found?
After your inspection, All Seasons Chimney provides a clear summary of findings along with documented photos or video footage from the flue camera.
If your chimney is in good condition with no significant concerns, we’ll document the inspection and recommend your next annual service date. You’re ready to use your fireplace with confidence.
If safety concerns are identified – such as cracked flue tiles, a missing or damaged liner, deteriorated crown, failed flashing, or significant structural damage – we’ll explain the issue in detail, show you the documentation, and provide a repair recommendation. We do not recommend continuing to use the chimney until safety-related repairs are completed.
All Seasons Chimney handles the full range of chimney repairs in-house, so you won’t need to coordinate with a separate contractor. And for larger repair or rebuild projects, financing is available through EnerBank USA to help make necessary work accessible.
How Much Does a Chimney Inspection Cost?
Pinning down the cost of a chimney inspection without seeing your setup is tricky because every home is unique. The final price you pay will depend on a few key factors, including the specific type of fireplace you own, how easily our technicians can access the structure, and the level of evaluation required.
A basic visual rundown will naturally differ from a comprehensive video inspection that looks deep inside the flue. Because your chimney system is one-of-a-kind, the best way to get an accurate quote is to call us directly for a customized estimate tailored to your property.
Chimney Inspections Near Me: Don’t Wait to Reach Out
To schedule a chimney inspection, contact All Seasons Chimney, Inc. at 845-567-0044 or click here to schedule online!
There are many reasons your chimney may need repair. All Seasons Chimney can help with all your chimney and fireplace service needs.