Should I Get a Chimney Inspection Before Buying a Home?
Why a general home inspection doesn't cover the inside of the chimney, what a Level 2 inspection shows, and what it costs in Northwest Indiana.
NWI Chimney · October 4, 2026
The short answer
Yes. A general home inspector looks at the chimney from the outside and the firebox from the room, but can't see inside the flue. The NFPA 211 standard calls for a Level 2 inspection — which includes a camera scan of the full flue — when a property is sold or transferred. Ours is $199 with a written photo report you can share with your agent.
What a home inspection misses
Cracked or missing flue tiles, a liner that's separated, glazed creosote, signs of an old chimney fire, or a gas furnace venting into an unlined chimney — none of these show from the firebox. They're also the items that are expensive to fix after closing.
What a Level 2 inspection covers
- Everything in a Level 1: firebox, damper, smoke chamber, exterior, crown, cap and flashing
- A video scan of the full flue
- Accessible areas around the chimney, like the attic and basement
- Every flue in the chimney, including furnace and water heater flues
- A written report with photos
What to do with the results
If something needs fixing, the report gives you something specific to take to the seller. We give flat prices for repairs before any work: a stainless liner typically runs $1,200–$2,500, crown repairs $250–$1,400, and a partial rebuild $1,800–$4,500.
Timing
Book it inside your inspection period — most inspection contingencies are short. Tell us when you book that it's for a purchase so we can give you the earliest window.
More answers
Do I need a Level 2 if the fireplace has never been used?
Yes. Unused chimneys collect nests, water damage and cracks just like used ones, and the furnace or water heater flue may be in the same chimney.
Can the seller's sweep report replace an inspection?
A recent sweep is good to know about, but it isn't a camera inspection of the flue. Ask for photos or get your own Level 2.
Is a Level 1 inspection enough when buying?
Level 1 is free and covers what can be seen. For a home purchase, Level 2 is the recommended level because it includes the flue scan.
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