Your chimney is a safety system. It channels combustion by-products out of your living space, protects adjacent framing from heat, and keeps moisture where it belongs—outside the house. A professional inspection verifies that safety promise. At Cheshire Chimney Specialists, we deliver thorough, photo-documented chimney inspections for homeowners, buyers and sellers, and property managers across Cheshire, CT and nearby communities. We combine practical rooftop experience with current standards so you receive clear, prioritized recommendations—not guesswork or upsells.
There are several levels of chimney inspection, each suited to a different situation. A routine maintenance visit (Level 1) confirms that the system is sound and unobstructed for continued service. When ownership changes, when you alter the system—say, by installing a new insert—or when a hazard is suspected, a more comprehensive Level 2 inspection is appropriate. After a fire or when serious structural concerns exist, a Level 3 inspection may be required to access concealed areas. We’ll explain which level fits your needs and why, before we begin.
Cheshire, CT and surrounding central Connecticut communities.
Photo documentation, plain-language findings, and prioritized next steps.
Request a QuoteConnecticut’s freeze–thaw cycles are tough on masonry. Water enters through small crown cracks, porous brick, or failed flashing and then expands when temperatures drop, widening gaps and loosening mortar. Add wind-driven rain, wildlife, and seasonal creosote accumulation and you have a recipe for hidden defects that grow more costly with time. A professional chimney inspection identifies those problems early: hairline crown fractures, deteriorated flue tiles, compromised mortar joints, corrosion on metal liners, missing or damaged caps, and flashing that no longer keeps water out.
Many issues begin subtly. A faint odor on humid days may indicate creosote or moisture in the flue; an occasional puff of smoke at startup can be a drafting or clearance problem; white staining (efflorescence) signals moisture migration through masonry. Our inspections translate those clues into a clear picture of your system’s condition so you can make informed, budget-smart decisions.
From routine maintenance checks to real-estate documentation and post-incident investigations.
Recommended when your system hasn’t changed and you simply need an annual check. We examine readily accessible components inside and outside the home: the firebox, damper, smoke chamber, and chimney exterior. We confirm clearances where visible, look for obstructions, check for water entry indicators, and note wear on masonry or metal components. This level ensures that a chimney designed for a particular appliance continues to function safely as intended.
Required during a property transfer or when you’ve made changes to the system—like installing a new stove, changing fuel type, or relining the flue. In addition to everything in Level 1, Level 2 includes video scanning of the flue interior and inspections of accessible areas in attics, crawl spaces, and basements. We document liner condition, joint integrity, and clearances to combustibles. The written report provides the detail real-estate transactions expect.
Performed when serious hazards are suspected—after a chimney fire, significant structural damage, or when concealed defects are likely. Level 3 may require removing components (e.g., chimney crown sections, interior finishes, or masonry) to access critical areas. We will always discuss findings from Level 1 or 2 first and explain why a Level 3 is warranted before any invasive work is undertaken.
Deliverable: You receive photos and a prioritized plan: what’s safe to monitor, what needs maintenance, and what requires repair or upgrade for safe operation.
Buying or selling a home? A Level 2 inspection provides the due diligence you and your agent expect. We perform a video scan of the flue, evaluate accessible attics and basements, and document any safety or performance issues that may affect negotiations. If repairs are needed—say, a deteriorated liner or a compromised crown—we outline scope and options so all parties can make informed decisions.
We’re efficient and respectful of tight timelines. Let us know your closing date and we’ll provide the soonest available appointment and quick turnaround on documentation.
Even a minor flue fire can damage tiles, warp components, or leave hidden cracks. An inspection determines whether the system is still safe to use and what remediation is needed.
High winds and heavy snow loads can shift masonry, open flashing, or dislodge caps. We check structural soundness and moisture defenses before problems compound.
Installing a new insert, converting fuels, or adding a stove alters draft and temperature profiles. We verify that the liner is correctly sized and compatible.
Clear answers for Cheshire homeowners, buyers, and sellers.
If your system hasn’t changed and you use it regularly, Level 1 is typically appropriate. For real-estate transactions, appliance changes, or suspected hazards, Level 2 is recommended. Level 3 is reserved for cases where concealed damage is likely or confirmed.
Yes. Every inspection includes photo documentation and a concise, actionable summary with prioritized recommendations.
Absolutely. We can schedule with your agent, provide quick turnarounds, and answer questions from buyers, sellers, or attorneys as needed.
We primarily serve Cheshire, CT and nearby central Connecticut communities. Call for current availability.
Book a Level 1, 2, or 3 chimney inspection with Cheshire Chimney Specialists. We’ll document the facts, explain the findings, and help you plan the right next steps for safety and performance.