Chimney inspection for a home sale in Gladeview
An inspection for a sale, a purchase or a change of use, with the scope agreed at the start.
- Owned and run locally
- Available for same-day service
- Fully licensed and insured
- Family owned and run
Moments that call for a safety inspection
- Smoke coming into the room
- A strong storm has passed through
- Plans to add an insert
- Scorch marks near the fireplace opening
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Inspecting the fireplace and chimney together
Inspecting a fireplace with an insert
An insert sits inside the old firebox and normally sends its smoke up a liner fitted into the flue. We look at the insert's surround, the connection to the liner where it can be seen and the top of the liner. The insert's manual sets how it should be installed.
Some parts cannot be seen without moving the insert. We tell you which ones and what moving it would involve. If moving it is needed to answer your question, that step becomes its own agreed scope.
Flues that serve another appliance
A chimney may carry a flue for an appliance other than the fireplace. The Florida Building Code's fuel gas volume covers how gas appliances vent through chimneys. Each flue should serve the equipment it was built or lined for.
We identify each flue and what connects to it, as far as access allows. If a gas appliance vents into the chimney, we note the condition of its flue and the top. We also tell you when the appliance itself needs a gas service visit. We do not guess at connections we cannot see.
Crown and cap, and which one we mean
Code language and everyday language use chimney cap differently. In the Florida Building Code, the cap of a masonry chimney is its sloped top surface, which the trade calls the crown. The metal hood with a screen is a separate part.
When we explain a finding, we say which part we mean and point to it. A crack in the crown and a missing metal cap lead to different repairs and prices. Using the same words in the findings and the estimate avoids confusion.
The standard behind the chimney inspection
NFPA 211 is a national standard for chimneys, fireplaces and vents. It covers their installation, inspection and maintenance. We use it as a reference for what an inspection should look at and how far it should reach.
The standard works alongside the Florida Building Code and the manufacturer's instructions, not in place of them. When a finding relates to one of these documents, we tell you which, so you can see where the concern comes from. Ask us about any finding you want traced back to its source.
Items on the chimney inspection list
- Cap, screen and fasteners
- Visible clearances to combustible material
- Chase cover and chase siding
- Lintel above the fireplace opening
Chimney safety inspection questions
What should I do before the inspection visit?
Leave the fireplace cold, clear loose items from the hearth and make sure we can reach the attic opening and the roof access. Find any manuals or records, but do not remove panels or trim to look for them.
Do you look at the crown during the inspection?
Yes, when the roof can be reached safely. We look for cracks, failed sealant where the crown meets the flue and a top that holds water. Hairline cracks and wide splits call for different repairs, and we explain which applies.
What if your findings differ from an earlier opinion?
Show us the earlier findings. We look at the same parts and explain where we agree, where we differ and why. The goal is a clear basis for your decision.
More Ways to Care for Your Fireplace
- Chimney Leak RepairFind the chimney water entry point and plan a repair before restoring the damaged finish.
- Gas Fireplace Repair and ServiceGet a model-specific gas fireplace service plan for the fault you are seeing or the maintenance your unit needs.
- Fireplace Hearth RepairRepair the hearth surface after considering the supporting assembly and fireplace requirements.
- Chimney RebuildRebuild the affected chimney section with the retained structure, roof connection and passage included in the plan.
- Chimney Flue RepairAssess repairs to damaged existing flue linings and distinguish them from a new liner installation.
We received your request
Our team will contact you to arrange your inspection.
Chimney & Fireplace Brands We Work With
DuraVent 
Olympia Chimney and Venting 
Copperfield Chimney Supply 
Rutland 
Heatilator 
Heat & Glo