Chimney inspection that starts with your question in Virginia Gardens
Get an honest picture of the chimney before the next fire, the next sale or the next repair.
- Owned and run locally
- Available for same-day service
- Fully licensed and insured
- Family owned and run
When a chimney inspection makes sense
- A fireplace sealed by a previous owner
- Scorch marks near the fireplace opening
- A chimney that seems to lean
- No record of any earlier inspection
Jump to
From hearth to crown, the inspection explained
Inspecting the flue lining
The lining is the inner surface of the flue that contains heat and smoke. In a masonry chimney it may be clay tile, a poured material or a metal liner. We look for cracks, gaps at joints, missing sections and signs of heat damage.
How much of the lining can be seen depends on access and deposits. We say how far the view reached from each end. If a section could not be seen, the record states it. We also explain whether cleaning ahead of time or another form of access would give a clearer answer.
Looking at the brick and mortar outside
The exterior masonry shows how the chimney is handling water and weather. We look for cracked or flaking brick faces, eroded mortar joints, open cracks and loose units. Where the roof is safe to reach, we look closely; otherwise we look from the ground and say so.
Each defect is described by location and extent. Some are cosmetic, some let water in and some affect the structure. We explain which is which, so you can decide what needs attention now and what can be watched.
Inspecting the chimney after a new roof
A roof replacement disturbs the joint between chimney and roof. Flashing may have been reused, replaced or left short, and debris or tarps may have ended up on the chimney top. CPSC guidance warns that chimneys should not be blocked by tarps or debris during renovation.
We look at the flashing, the top and the flue for anything left behind. Findings are linked to the roof work where the evidence supports it. That can help if you need to raise a problem with whoever did the roof.
Inspecting a decorative fireplace that stays unlit
Some fireplaces go unlit and serve only as a feature of the room. The chimney above them still faces rain, sun and animals. Water entering through an unprotected top can damage the masonry and the room below.
An inspection of a decorative fireplace focuses on the top, the damper and signs of water. We also check whether the flue is closed off in a way that suits a fireplace that is not used. If you might light it one day, we explain what would need checking first.
Inspection scope for homes in Virginia Gardens
- Flashing at the roof junction
- Chimney height relative to the roof
- Written record of what was inspected
- Hose water test where the job needs it
Before you arrange a chimney inspection
Can you find where water is getting into the chimney?
Usually. We look at the crown, cap, flashing and masonry with the timing of the water in mind. When looking alone is not enough, a hose water test can narrow it down when the job calls for it.
Can you inspect the chimney for a house sale?
Yes. Tell us what the buyer or seller needs to know and any deadline. The scope is agreed at the start. Findings are explained and written down, and repairs come with a free written estimate.
Does the inspection check clearances to wood and trim?
It checks the clearances we can see, such as trim around the opening and framing visible in an attic. Clearances inside finished walls are usually concealed, and the written record says so.
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