Chimney inspection in Lake Forest, IL
A chimney can look fine from the yard and still be hiding a cracked liner or a leak. We check the whole system.
A chimney does three jobs at once. It carries smoke and gas out of your house, it holds up against Illinois weather, and it keeps heat away from the wood framing around it. A chimney inspection is how you find out whether it is still doing all three.
We inspect chimneys for homeowners in Lake Forest and nearby towns, and for people who are buying or selling a house with a fireplace. We look at the firebox, damper, smoke chamber, flue, the chimney above the roofline, the crown, the cap and the flashing. Then we tell you what is fine, what should be watched, and what should be fixed soon.
The three inspection levels, in plain words
- Level 1: a look at the parts we can easily reach, for a chimney that is used the same way as always and has no known problems.
- Level 2: everything in Level 1 plus a closer look inside the flue, usually with a camera. This is the right level when you buy or sell a home, change the fireplace or stove, or after a chimney fire or storm damage.
- Level 3: a deeper investigation of hidden areas when a serious problem is suspected. It can mean opening a wall or part of the chimney.
Good reasons to book an inspection
- You are buying or selling a house that has a fireplace
- You are changing a stove, insert or fireplace
- There was a chimney fire, a lightning strike or a bad storm
- You see water stains on the ceiling or walls near the chimney
- Bricks or mortar are crumbling, or white powder is showing on the brick
If you already know you need a cleaning, a Level 1 inspection is normally part of the same visit. If you are not sure which level you need, call and describe the situation and we will point you to the right one. See also: signs your chimney needs repair.
Questions we hear
What does an inspection cost?
It depends on the level and the chimney. Call us with a couple of details and we will give you a clear answer.
Do I need an inspection before buying a house?
Home inspectors often only glance at a fireplace. If the home has one you plan to use, a chimney-specific inspection is worth asking for before closing.
How long does it take?
A simple look takes less time than a camera scan of the flue. We will tell you what to expect when you book.
Will you give me something in writing?
Tell us at booking if you need a written report for a sale or an insurance company, and we will plan for it.
Other services
Tell us what you’re seeing
Leave your name, number and a few words about the chimney or fireplace. We read every request and call you back. If it is urgent, call us instead: (224) 271-0137.