Chimney Inspection Levels 1, 2 and 3, Explained
Chimney inspections come in three defined levels: Level 1 is a visual check of accessible areas during routine service, Level 2 adds a full video scan of the flue interior and is required when a property changes hands or after any operating problem, and Level 3 involves opening up walls or masonry when serious hidden damage is suspected.
Level 1 — the routine look
Included with an annual sweep: readily accessible portions of the chimney, flue and appliance connection, checking soundness and basic clearances. Right when nothing has changed — same appliance, same fuel, no known problems.
Level 2 — the camera scan (the one buyers need)
Everything in Level 1 plus a video scan of the full flue interior, plus accessible attic, crawlspace and roof areas. NFPA 211 requires Level 2 on any sale or transfer of property, after any operating malfunction or external event (chimney fire, lightning, storm damage), and when changing appliance or fuel type.
This is the inspection that matters in a real estate deal: the general home inspector's report will say some version of "flue not fully visible — recommend evaluation by a qualified chimney professional." That sentence means Level 2. Standalone, it runs $125–$250 here and produces a photo/video report both sides of the deal can act on.
Level 3 — the teardown
Only when Levels 1–2 reveal evidence of a hazard that can't be evaluated without removing chase covers, wall sections or masonry. Rare, and never a surprise — it's ordered based on documented findings, not suspicion.
Which one do you need?
| Situation | Level |
|---|---|
| Annual maintenance, nothing changed | 1 |
| Buying or selling the home | 2 |
| After a chimney fire, lightning strike, or hurricane | 2 |
| New insert / switching wood to gas | 2 |
| Level 2 found evidence of concealed damage | 3 |
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