How Much Does a Chimney Inspection Cost in 2025?
A chimney inspection costs an average of $450
The average cost for a chimney inspection is $450, with most homeowners paying between $100 and $5,000.
Prices start at $100 for a basic visual inspection of an undamaged chimney with one flue.
Costs can reach $5,000 if the chimney has structural damage that requires invasive inspection methods.
Regular chimney inspections by a fireplace pro help prevent fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, and other hazards.
Chimney cleaning services are often included in the inspection fee.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
A chimney inspection costs homeowners an average of $450, but costs can range between $100 and $6,300. Basic visual inspections fall on the low end of a chimney inspection, while costs are on the higher end if your chimney requires invasive methods to address structural damage. It’s wise to have your chimney inspected as part of your ongoing home maintenance. Professional chimney inspections prevent fires and carbon monoxide poisoning, ensuring that your fireplace operates safely and efficiently.
Chimney Inspection Cost Factors
Chimney inspections have a wide cost range based on several factors that your pro must consider. These are some of the cost factors associated with chimney inspections.
Accessibility
Your chimney inspection costs will increase if your roof is particularly steep or shaky or has obstacles like overhanging trees that your local fireplace inspection pro has to work around. A less accessible chimney means that the inspection will take longer, which leads to a higher price tag.
Technology
A chimney camera inspection costs between $200 and $400 for a single-flue chimney and up to $1,000 for chimneys with multiple flues. Using specialized camera equipment, inspectors can thoroughly examine the inner surfaces of your chimney, identifying any hidden issues. This method is often part of a Level 2 inspection. You'll likely receive a copy of the video along with a detailed report.
Size
Chimneys that are larger or taller than average will cost more to inspect than smaller chimneys that take less time.
Repairs
If your inspector discovers any areas of your chimney that are faulty, worn out, or damaged, you’ll have to pay more for repair costs. A chimney repair pro will charge between $160 and $750 for basic repairs, while complex repairs or replacements can cost up to $15,000.
Chimney Inspection Costs by Level
Chimney inspection costs range from $100 for a basic check to $5,000 for an extensive, invasive inspection. The level of inspection you need will greatly influence the price. No matter the level, getting your chimney inspected helps reduce the risk of fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, and other chimney problems.
| Level | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 1 | $100–$950 |
| 2 | $200–$1,000 |
| 3 | $500–$5,000 |
Level 1
A Level 1 inspection costs between $100 and $950, depending on your chimney's size, number of flues, and usage. This basic inspection is ideal if you've been using your chimney regularly without any issues. It includes a visual examination of the readily accessible parts of your chimney, ensuring everything is in good working order after a routine cleaning.
Level 2
A Level 2 inspection costs around $200 for a single-flue chimney and up to $1,000 for chimneys with multiple flues. You'll need this level of inspection if you've experienced a chimney fire or severe weather damage, or if you're making changes to your heating system. Inspectors will examine accessible areas, including the attic or crawl spaces, and may use cameras to thoroughly assess your chimney.
Level 3
A Level 3 inspection costs between $500 and $5,000 and is only needed when serious structural damage is suspected. This comprehensive inspection includes all checks from Levels 1 and 2, plus it may require removing parts of the chimney or building structure to access hidden areas.You'll need this level if there's significant damage after a chimney fire or severe event.
Additional Chimney Services
Chimney inspections can cost up to $5,000, not including repairs or cleaning. Inspectors often bundle chimney cleaning into the Level 1 or Level 2 inspection price, which ranges from $100 to $1,000. If you need chimney cleaning alone, it costs $130 to $380 but can reach $800 if there's significant creosote buildup. Fireplace repairs range from $75 to $5,000, helping to restore your chimney's condition.
| Service | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Chimney sweeping | $130–$380 |
| Chimney cap | $75–$1,000 |
| Masonry repair | $500–$2,500 |
| Liner replacement | $200–$5,000 |
When to Get a Chimney Inspection
You should schedule a chimney inspection at least once a year, even if you don't use your fireplace often. Additionally, get an inspection if your chimney may have suffered damage from an earthquake, storm, or fire. Regular inspections can reveal creosote buildup, pest infestations, and structural damage, helping you keep your home safe.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Level one inspections take up to one hour and involve a thorough visual examination of the inner surfaces of your chimney. Level two inspections take about two hours and go beyond that with a look from the bottom to top to see if there’s any damage. Level three inspections can take days since they require the removal of building materials to assess severe damage.
A chimney inspection performed during a home inspection is a limited review that only highlights visible issues on the interior and exterior surfaces of your fireplace and chimney. This brief check does not cover in-depth structural or hidden defects. If there are concerns about chimney integrity or safety, a dedicated chimney inspection by a specialist is essential to identify significant problems.
Regular maintenance and cleaning of your chimney are important and must be performed at least once every year. Proper cleaning removes dangerous creosote and soot buildup that can cause fires and expose your home to harmful carbon monoxide. If you use your fireplace often, scheduling additional cleanings is necessary to maintain safety. Hiring a professional inspector ensures that every part of your chimney is thoroughly inspected and cleaned, preserving its performance and protecting your home.
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