The three levels
- Level I is for a chimney you plan to keep using as is. CSIA says a certified sweep verifies the structure is sound and the flue is free of obstructions and combustible deposits such as creosote.
- Level II is required, per CSIA, when you add a new heating appliance or change the type of fuel, on the sale or transfer of a property, and after a malfunction or event likely to have damaged the chimney. It adds accessible attics, crawl spaces and basements, and may include a smoke or pressure test and a video inspection of the flue. HomeGuide adds that a Level II inspection with a camera comes before installing a liner.
- Level III is for when a Level I or II suggests a hidden hazard that can’t be checked without opening concealed areas, or after an incident that damaged the chimney.
How often
The City’s Rowhouse Manual says to “hire a chimney sweep to clean and inspect chimneys once a year for animal nests and soot build up,” and to have a professional check the roof for cracking at flashing and chimney caps.
Costs
| Job | Range | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Chimney sweep (includes a Level 1 inspection) | $150–$375 (avg. $275) | HomeGuide |
| Level 2 inspection (up to 2 flues) | $250–$600 | HomeGuide |
| Level 3 inspection | $900–$5,000 | HomeGuide |
Buying a house?
A general home inspection usually isn’t a chimney inspection. See chimney inspections when buying a house.
References
- Chimney Safety Institute of America: Levels of chimney inspection (NFPA 211)
- City of Philadelphia: Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual (PDF)
- HomeGuide: Chimney sweep cost
- HomeGuide: Chimney inspection cost
- HomeGuide: Chimney liner cost
Checked October 30, 2026. Codes, fees, programs and prices change; confirm with the source. Cost figures are published ranges, not quotes.