Thorough Level I, II, and III chimney inspections with camera scans, clear documentation, and actionable recommendations—tailored to Connecticut homes.
Book an Inspection (860) 362-4557A proper chimney inspection is more than a quick look with a flashlight. In South Windsor, CT—where winter fuel use, wind patterns, and freeze–thaw cycles all impact masonry—hidden issues can develop inside the flue, smoke chamber, crown, and around flashing long before they show up as stains or odors in your living room. At South Windsor Chimney Sweep Co., we perform detailed inspections that combine hands-on evaluation with camera scans and photo documentation, so you have clarity, not guesswork.
Whether you’re preparing for heating season, completing a real-estate transaction, adding a new appliance, or chasing down a persistent leak, our process focuses on three things: safety, function, and longevity. We verify that your system vents properly, identify structural or moisture-related concerns early, and lay out practical steps to protect your home and budget.
Not every chimney needs the same depth of evaluation every time. That’s why inspections are grouped into three levels. We’ll help you choose the right level based on your situation and objectives.
A Level I inspection is a thorough visual assessment of readily accessible portions of your chimney and venting system. It’s ideal for annual maintenance on systems that haven’t changed in use or appliance type. We check clearances, readily accessible components, and overall condition for signs of obstruction, creosote buildup, or deterioration. If we spot indicators of deeper issues—or you’ve noticed changes in performance—we’ll advise whether a more detailed Level II makes sense.
A Level II inspection adds a video camera scan of the flue and a broader assessment of accessible spaces around the chimney. It’s recommended after changes in use, following a chimney fire, before relining, when a property is being sold, or when a leak, odor, or draft problem persists. We document tile joints, cracks, offsets, gaps, prior repair quality, and venting compatibility—then compile the findings with photos and recommendations that make next steps clear.
A Level III inspection is reserved for scenarios where a known defect or hazard can’t be fully evaluated without limited removal of components (for example, to examine concealed sections of chimney chase or surrounding construction). We’ll only recommend Level III when the evidence supports it and after explaining the scope, rationale, and restoration considerations.
Interior flue defects rarely announce themselves. A camera scan allows us to inspect the full length of the flue—the joints, offsets, and tight sections where cracks and gaps tend to hide. This helps us catch concerns before they become hazards, justify repairs when they’re truly needed, and avoid unnecessary work when everything checks out.
A home inspection often notes “recommend chimney evaluation” but doesn’t dive into the chimney system itself. We provide a dedicated report you can share with agents or buyers that documents condition, safety, and recommended repairs. In many cases, this prevents last-minute surprises and helps everyone agree on a fair path forward.
You’ll receive a summary of findings with photos when appropriate and a prioritized plan. We label items by urgency—Safety/Critical, Performance, and Preventative/Monitoring—so you can address what matters first and plan the rest. If repairs are needed, we’ll discuss options, materials, timelines, and warranties before any work begins.
Inspections are the roadmap; sweeping and waterproofing are the maintenance that keeps your system on track. Many issues—like early-stage crown cracking or minor mortar loss—can be addressed quickly when caught early, preventing more costly structural work down the road. If you’ve had recurring draft or odor issues, pairing a Level II inspection with a professional sweep provides the cleanest, clearest baseline for performance.
Not necessarily. Level I is generally appropriate for unchanged systems with regular maintenance. We recommend Level II for real-estate transactions, suspected damage, after a chimney fire, or when performance has changed.
A Level I typically takes about 45–60 minutes. A Level II with camera scan usually runs 60–90 minutes depending on accessibility and complexity. Level III timing varies based on scope.
Yes. When we perform a camera scan or find notable conditions, we include photos so you can see exactly what we see.
Absolutely. We regularly coordinate with agents and attorneys to keep transactions on schedule and minimize surprises near closing.
If you’re in South Windsor, CT or nearby, we’re here to help. Call (860) 362-4557 or send a message through our contact page. We’ll confirm details, explain the right inspection level, and arrive prepared to deliver clear answers.
Local, licensed, and insured technicians • Clean, respectful workmanship • Transparent reports & estimates
Early detection keeps small problems small. Inspections verify safe venting, catch moisture entry, and extend your chimney’s lifespan.
“The camera inspection showed exactly where the tiles were cracked. The report made it easy to get the liner replaced before winter.”
“They coordinated with our realtor and kept closing on schedule. Professional and transparent.”
“Explained everything in plain language and gave us options by urgency. Great experience.”
