Chimney & Fireplace Inspections
Chimney & Fireplace Inspection Services | Safe, Thorough & Professional
If your home has a fireplace or chimney, ensuring it is safe and functioning properly is essential for your family’s comfort and protection. Proximity Home Inspection offers professional
chimney and fireplace inspections as part of our comprehensive home inspection services throughout the Bay Area and surrounding communities.
During a standard chimney and fireplace inspection, we assess the visible, accessible components of your system to identify safety concerns and functional issues. This helps you make informed decisions about maintenance or further evaluation by a specialist when needed.
What We Inspect
Our chimney and fireplace inspection focuses on the
readily accessible and visible portions of the system, including:
- Fireplace firebox and hearth
- Chimney exterior and visible flue areas
- Damper functionality (if accessible)
- Obstructions that could impair drafting and ventilation
This type of Level-One inspection reflects the industry standard for general home inspections and is designed to
identify observable hazards and potential concerns. It is not a technically exhaustive chimney sweep or specialized code-level inspection, which may require advanced tools and a certified sweep.
Learn more about our comprehensive
home inspection services.
Why Chimney & Fireplace Inspections Matter
Fireplaces and chimneys that go unchecked can pose safety risks and reduce your home’s efficiency:
- Obstructions such as debris or nests can block ventilation and cause smoke to back up into your home.
- Visible cracks or deterioration in the structure may indicate water damage or shifting that warrants further evaluation.
What’s Included
During your inspection, our certified inspector will:
- Perform a level-one visual assessment of your fireplace and chimney
- Look for signs of damage, obstruction, or unsafe conditions
- Evaluate damper operation if accessible
- Check for buildup of soot
- Advise if further evaluation by a chimney sweep or specialist is recommended
All findings are included in your detailed, easy-to-read inspection report. Photos and clear recommendations help you understand the condition of your chimney and fireplace.
Home Inspection & Safety
Chimney and fireplace inspections are included in our full
home inspection services, but they can also be performed as a stand-alone inspection upon request. Whether you are preparing to buy, sell, or simply maintain your home, regular inspections help reduce headaches and costly repairs down the road.
See our full list of
home inspection services
Schedule Your Chimney & Fireplace Inspection
Protect your investment and your peace of mind with a professional inspection from Proximity Home Inspection.
Schedule your home inspection today or call us to discuss your specific chimney and fireplace concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you clean chimneys as part of this inspection?
No. A chimney sweep or certified chimney specialist performs cleaning.
Our inspection identifies visible issues and recommends further evaluation when needed.
Will you inspect the interior flue or liner?
No. Inspection of interior flues or liners beyond what is visible is outside the scope of a standard home inspection and may require a Level-2 chimney inspection by a certified sweep.
How often should my chimney be inspected?
Annual inspections are recommended, especially if the fireplace is used regularly, to help reduce safety risks and ensure proper operation.
Serving the Bay Area
We proudly provide chimney and fireplace inspections throughout the Bay Area, including
San Jose,
Fremont,
Concord, and all surrounding communities.
