FAQ
Chimney questions, answered
Short answers with sources. For detail, see the rules guide and cost guide.
- Do I need a permit for chimney work in Philadelphia?
- How much does a chimney liner cost?
- How often should a chimney be cleaned and inspected?
- What is a Level 2 chimney inspection?
- A new building next door is taller than my chimney. Who pays to extend it?
- Do I need a carbon monoxide alarm?
- Does the City help pay for chimney or heater repairs?
- Are you a chimney contractor?
Do I need a permit for chimney work in Philadelphia?
It depends on the work. L&I issues Mechanical Permits for devices regulated by the Mechanical and Fuel Gas Codes and says a licensed contractor must do the work. A chimney extension required because of construction next door always needs its own mechanical permit. On historic properties, masonry, flashing and vents need Historical Commission review.
Source: City of Philadelphia: Get a Mechanical Permit, L&I: Regulations concerning chimney and vent clearance on properties adjoining construction sites (PDF), Philadelphia Historical Commission: Get approval for work to a historic property
How much does a chimney liner cost?
HomeGuide lists $900–$3,800 for an installed stainless steel liner and $1,500–$4,000 for typical liner installation. Angi lists $1,500–$5,000 with an average of about $2,500. A contractor has to inspect the flue to quote.
Source: HomeGuide: Chimney liner cost, Angi: How much does it cost to install a chimney liner?
How often should a chimney be cleaned and inspected?
The City’s Rowhouse Manual says to hire a chimney sweep to clean and inspect chimneys once a year.
Source: City of Philadelphia: Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual (PDF)
What is a Level 2 chimney inspection?
Under NFPA 211, as summarized by CSIA, a Level II inspection covers everything in Level I plus accessible attics, crawl spaces and basements, and may include a smoke or pressure test and a video inspection. CSIA says it’s required when you add a heating appliance or change fuel type, and on the sale or transfer of a property.
Source: Chimney Safety Institute of America: Levels of chimney inspection (NFPA 211)
A new building next door is taller than my chimney. Who pays to extend it?
If the new building rises above your roof and your chimney or vent is within 10 feet, the builder must offer, at least 60 days before work, to get permits and fund or perform the extension. If you ignore or reject the offer, you become responsible for your equipment’s compliance.
Source: L&I: Regulations concerning chimney and vent clearance on properties adjoining construction sites (PDF), L&I: Chimney & vent clearance information sheet, Rev. 4.2025 (PDF)
Do I need a carbon monoxide alarm?
Yes, if your home has fuel-burning or wood-burning appliances or an attached garage. L&I Code Interpretation 0801 says existing one- and two-family homes don’t need the alarms hardwired or interconnected.
Source: L&I: Code Interpretation No. 0801, Carbon monoxide alarms (PDF)
Does the City help pay for chimney or heater repairs?
The Heater Hotline, (215) 568-7190, makes free emergency heater repairs for income-eligible households. The Basic Systems Repair Program covers heating emergencies and some code violations, and Restore, Repair, Renew offers 3% loans that can cover masonry work.
Source: City of Philadelphia: Get emergency home heater repairs (Heater Hotline), PHDC: Basic Systems Repair Program flyer, March 2026 (PDF), PHDC: Restore, Repair, Renew loan program
Are you a chimney contractor?
No. We are a free referral service. We pass your request to an independent Philadelphia contractor, who inspects, quotes and does the work. We may be paid by contractors we refer.
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Philly Chimney Repair is a free referral service, not a chimney contractor. We pass your request to an independent Philadelphia contractor, who inspects, quotes and does the work.
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Philly Chimney Repair is a free referral service, not a chimney contractor. We pass your request to an independent Philadelphia contractor, who inspects, quotes and does the work. We are not affiliated with the City of Philadelphia, L&I or PGW. We may be paid by the contractors we refer. Disclosure.