NFPA 211-standard Level 1, 2, and 3 chimney inspections by CSIA certified technicians. High-definition video camera inspection of the full flue interior. Written photographic report before we leave your home.
NFPA 211 defines three chimney inspection levels, each with a distinct scope. The right level depends on your chimney's history, your circumstances, and whether any change has occurred since the last inspection.
Visual inspection of all accessible chimney components without specialized tools. Covers the firebox interior, damper, smoke shelf, smoke chamber, visible flue sections, chimney crown, cap, and exterior masonry visible from grade.
All Level 1 coverage plus high-definition video camera scan of the full flue interior from firebox to chimney cap. Captures liner cracks, mortar joint deterioration, blockages, and Stage 3 creosote pockets invisible to naked-eye inspection.
All Level 2 coverage plus removal of chimney components, walls, or other building elements as necessary to access and inspect concealed areas where damage is suspected. Required when a Level 2 suggests damage that cannot be fully assessed non-destructively.
Greenville SC homes span over a century of residential construction. Depending on the age and history of the chimney, our inspections commonly identify these conditions.
Very common in Greenville SC chimneys built before 1980. Thermal cycling over decades causes clay tiles to crack and spall. Visible on Level 2 camera scan — invisible to the naked eye from below.
Greenville SC receives approximately 51 inches of rainfall annually. Concrete crowns without proper drip edges absorb water, crack, and allow moisture to penetrate the liner system and brick — often undetected for years.
The flashing joint between chimney and roof is the most common point of water entry in Greenville SC homes. Thermal movement causes the flashing to separate over time, allowing water to enter the attic and wall cavity.
Cast iron throat dampers in homes built 40+ years ago commonly present rust corrosion and incomplete sealing in Greenville's humid subtropical climate. A failed damper allows conditioned air to escape year-round.
Level 2 camera inspection frequently reveals pockets of Stage 2 or Stage 3 creosote in the smoke chamber that standard brush cleaning missed or that standard visual inspection from below could not detect.
In factory-built prefab fireplaces common in newer Greenville neighborhoods like Verdae and Five Forks, cracked refractory panels are frequently found — a safety issue that requires panel replacement before further use.
Every chimney inspection follows a structured process — from setup to the written report you receive at the end of the visit.
Drop cloths placed on floors and furniture around the fireplace. Technician reviews chimney history with you — last inspection, any changes, any events since last inspection.
Level 1 visual inspection of all accessible components: firebox, damper, smoke shelf, smoke chamber, and all visible flue liner sections. Findings noted as inspection proceeds.
For Level 2: HD camera lowered through the full length of the flue, capturing video and still images of the liner interior, joints, and any damage or buildup not visible from below.
Technician walks you through findings. Written report with photographs documenting condition, any deficiencies found, and recommended next steps — provided before leaving your home.
Still images from the camera scan documenting liner condition, crown, cap, and any deficiencies found during inspection
Written assessment of every inspected component — firebox, damper, smoke chamber, liner, crown, cap, and flashing — rated by condition
Any deficiency found is documented with photograph, location, and description — including whether immediate action is required or monitoring is appropriate
Specific, actionable follow-up recommendations where deficiencies are found — without obligation to use our services for the repair work
Report signed by the inspecting CSIA certified technician including certification number — acceptable for home sale transactions and insurance documentation
A PDF copy of the full inspection report with embedded photographs can be provided for real estate transactions, insurance claims, and personal records
CSIA certified inspection with written photographic report. Level 1 included with every cleaning. Level 2 camera inspection available for home sales, post-fire, or when structural concerns are present.