Gas Fireplace Inspection Cost A gas fireplace inspection costs $75 to $100. If the freestanding wood stove or insert has to be moved before cleaning can be done, it will cost about$215. If you live in an area with a high cost of living, such as New York City or California, you can expect your chimney sweep to cost more than the same service in a lower cost-of-living area. Each one carries a different cost, with level 1 and level 2 inspections being able to take place at the same time as cleaning, with additional costs. Updated the FAQs section with four additional questions. Cleaning reduces the amount of creosote build-up on the interior. Also, debris builds up from the ceramic logs throughout the year. CHIMNEYS. A level one chimney check-up or annual cleaning will likely cost $80 to $200, while a level three inspection may cost up to $5,000. It may need to be reinstalled if it is not working correctly. Its very common for some homes to have multiple flues, one for a fireplace, one for a wood stove, and more for things like the HVAC system to vent through. The average cost of a cleaning session is $100 to $500. Sometimes chimney fires burn themselves out, but if you think or know you have a chimney fire, you must call 911. It lets smoke and gasses out and blocks rain and snow from getting in, which helps prevent chimney damage from freeze and thaw cycles. Creosote is one of the leading causes of fires. According to the CDC, creosote can be harmful to human health, and exposure should be limited. Let's take a closer look at the costs. DIY cleaning kits are around $75. Poorly burning fires or fires that wont start at all indicate an issue with a chimneys cleanliness or other damage. The section on maintenance was updated with costs. Cleaning is also frequently conducted at the same time as a level 2 inspection. Will you provide a detailed inspection report after the service is complete? If obstructions are in the flue, such as birds nests, these are removed. According to HomeAdvisor, a chimney inspection costs anywhere from $100 to $5,000, with $450 being the average cost of chimney inspection. Homeowners who use their fireplace only minimally often choose to forego an annual inspection and opt for an inspection every other year. 3. It can take 1-2 hours on average. The hearth is where you place your fuel, such as wood logs or gas logs. A buildup of smoke inside your home indicates a blockage in your chimney. Flashing is sheet metal, formed into an L-shape that snugs up against the chimney directing water away from the seam of the chimney/roof. A professional does an inspection and cleaning of the vents, ash traps, and pipes before winter. The inspection is necessary because of the vent to the exterior, which may get blocked. But when they fail to light, you'll need to look into repairs. They take about 20 to 30 minutes. Of the three levels of creosote buildup, the creosote log is of no use against Stage 2 and 3 of buildup. However, costs range from $80 for a well-maintained gas fireplace to more than $1,500 for a filthy or neglected wood fireplace. This includes removing the ashes from wood-burning fireplaces and stoves as soon as they cool and using only dry, seasoned wood or manufactured logs with the CSIA Seal of Approval. This type of inspection is usually more thorough than an annual inspection, as any issues must be resolved prior to the execution of the sale or issuance of the certificate of occupancy. This might require access to the attic, crawl space, or other locations that help the inspector view as much of the chimney as possible. Hire the chimney inspector far in advance. Expect to pay more than the basic cost for any of the following reasons: If the fireplace insert has to be pulled out of the firebox before the chimney can be cleaned, No chimney cap (makes for a dirtier chimney). The exact timing of when you should have an inspection performed can be impacted by several factors. oz. A Level 2 inspection should locate all the repair work needed. Chimney and fireplace inspection services are generally offered through companies that do chimney sweeping (also known as chimney cleaning), a term that covers a wide range of chimney-related repairs and maintenance. The smell may be due to creosote or other chemicals building up inside the fireplace. This includes a visual assessment of accessible areas of the chimney, from the roof and inside the home, but it does not include an in-depth look of each part of the chimney or inside. If the answer is pretty difficult, meaning your roof has a steep pitch or a high peak, you can expect to pay more for sweep services. If you live in an area that may be impacted by earthquakes, you may want to have your chimney inspected for defects that can lead to a collapse in the event of an earthquake. Get free estimates on HomeGuide from trusted local pros. The quoted time is 45 to 60 minutes. You will need to ask the inspector what he or she includes. Complete, at your own cost, a fireplace/chimney inspection and cleaning; Upload inspection receipt within 30-day period; . Every time you have or more of creosote buildup, schedule a cleaning. This level is reserved for chimneys with damage from fires or storms. Homeowners can clean a small portion of a chimney themselves, such as removing the soot around an inactive firebox, but most chimney cleaning is best left to the professionals. These types of repairs may be needed after an inspection. The more flues, the longer an inspection will take; therefore, the chimney inspection price depends on the number of flues. How hard will it be for the chimney sweep to access your chimney? Your chimney will be lined with clay, tiles, or metal. Fireplaces and heating systems provide essential functions within a home, made possible by the presence of a chimney. Chimney cleaning logs never replace a professional cleaning, and they often cause fires rather than prevent them. Costs can reach $5,000 if the chimney has structural damage thats impossible to see without tearing down walls. Any of the following situations indicate that a chimney inspection is warranted. Cast-in-place chimney liners have the most expensive installation cost, but they are seamless and insulate well once installed, and they are much cheaper than replacing the masonry. This is done so that the sweep can better visualize the interior chambers. Furthermore, homeowner insurance policies will likely require an inspection before providing coverage. The timing of these cleanings and determining when you should have them done varies by your own circumstances. Chimney inspections vary by level of detail from level one to level three. Alternatively, use a fire suppressant stick to choke the oxygen out of the fire. Having a level 2 inspection done for $150 to $1,000 can help prevent future issues. Clean up the visible soot around the firebox as part of a regular cleaning routine. Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), Fire Investigation Research and Education (FIRE). Does your chimney inspection include a camera inspection? To flash a typical one-flue brick chimney of any size up to 32 x 32, the chimney repair expert will need to install base, top, counter, and step flashing to complete the job. Prices start at $100 for a basic visual inspection of an undamaged chimney with one flue. Cleaning a gas fireplace costs $75 to $100 and ensures a clear path for exiting gasses. When budgeting for your chimney sweep, dont forget to consider how your type of fireplace or stove will impact the price. These are some of the most common additional services with their prices: Installing or replacing a chimney cap: $150$700, Replacing a flue/chimney liner: $1,600$5,000, Adding or replacing chimney flashing: $200$500. This includes carbon monoxide, which can be fatal. The cost for basic chimney and fireplace cleaning kits should cost around $50 to $100. For instance, Maine requires a level 2 inspection when buying or selling a home. However, even if the debris is loosened, it can get stuck at various points of a slanted chimney and still has to be swept out. The next thing you know, your fireplace is cleaned, ready to warm you up . Some chimney sweeps prefer this to a regular rod and brush system as bristles can get stuck, whereas the stainless steel, flexible brush doesnt. Other factorslike an abundance of multi-chimney homes in your areamay increase the price. Can I see a sample report? Wood fireplaces that receive regular maintenance cost$89 to $155 per cleaning, while those with heavy creosote buildup or neglect cost$300 or more. You may occasionally discover an animal trapped in your chimney. These pros inspect, clean, and help maintain your fireplace so you can enjoy it safely and with peace of mind. This level of inspection is only necessary when level 1 inspections show signs that need to be further investigated. However, gas fireplaces are still prone to blockage issues from wildlife like birds. It starts as a flaky deposit that is easy to remove but can turn into a tar-like substance or even harden and be difficult to extract. The section on the frequency of inspections was updated. A full cleanup should be done after the chimney sweep. Inspectors may recommend a camera inspection to get a better look at the internal chimney stack. This may require removing walls or portions of the chimney to access and inspect each part fully. Performed when changing fuel type or installing a new liner, Level 1 and 2 inspection plus any repairs, Deepest level of structural inspection. The inspector will note any issues with cleanliness or damage that need to be addressed in order to keep the home and residents out of harms way. The national average cost of a chimney inspection is between $360-$400. When oils in wood arent burned, they travel with smoke. Flashing around a chimney keeps water from getting between the chimney and the roof and going down into your house, causing problems. In a level 2 inspection, cameras are used to view the interior better. Updated the Chimney Inspection Cost by Type section. Cost for Chimney Cleaning and Inspection $150 - $280 The average cost to have your chimney inspected and cleaned is about $220 for a 1-2 story chimney in good maintenance. A level two inspection costs between $200 and $1,000 and goes a step further to include a more extensive investigation into potential structural issues caused by recent damage. To reduce your chance of fire in the chimney and save money on future cleanings and repairs. Level 1 chimney and fireplace inspections cost around $85 to $950. Does a Chimney Fire Clean the Chimney? Chimney Inspection Costs at a Glance Level 1 inspection: $85-$950 (CAD 110-CAD 1,200) Level 2 inspection: $150-$1,000 (CAD 200-CAD 1,300 Level 3 inspection: $500-$5,000 (CAD 650-CAD 6,500) Your home's chimney keeps you safe while you enjoy a roaring fire, and there's more to it than meets the eye. Chimney Saver Cre-Away has a 1 lb. These types of incidents can destroy the structural integrity of a chimney, meaning even if the chimney looks okay and functions well in the present, it could collapse in the future. Prevent creosote buildup in your chimney by only burning properly dried wood, keeping your fire burning briskly, keeping a flue temperature of over 250 F, and keeping the flue clean to give the fire enough airflow. If the liner in the chimney flue is worn down, for example, a replacement will cost $2,500 or so. A damaged damper can impede airflow and cause problems. Costs can reach $5,000 if the chimney has structural damage that's impossible to see without tearing down walls. Ask about the following aspects of the chimney sweeps services. A level two inspection starts with a cleaning service to expose any damage. They can also be rotated at high speed by an electric motor to increase the cleaning effect. Their work can protect your home against chimney fires and carbon monoxide. The condition of the chimney dictates which level is necessary. Call 602.439.3218. How much are chimney inspections? The Chimney Institute of America also explains that these types of inspections are required upon sale or transfer of property after an operation malfunction or other events may have caused damage. Cleaning costs can reach $800 for surfaces with tons of creosote buildup. Updated the How Often Should a Chimney be Inspected? Find a Pro +. Seeing signs that your chimney needs an inspection? On its. Cost data is based on research by HomeAdvisor. Residential chimneys usually have between one and four flues, with each flue typically serving a separate system, such as a fireplace, wood stove, or HVAC.. Gas, wood, and electric fireplaces bring comfort and warmth during the cold winter months. Final costs were updated with a new average range. Let's say your chimney weathered a terrible storm or even a recent earthquake. Select companies that are insured, bonded, and have been in business for longer than five years. A Level 1 inspection is a part of the annual cleaning, which costs between $129 and $377. Certified chimney sweep deals help lower the cost: Regularly maintained chimneys typically cost $10 to $20 less. Take time to make sure the bricks and joints are not damaged because moisture can enter the home. In a worst-case scenario, the inspection might find that a complete chimney rebuild is required, which can cost upwards of $5,000. All Tasker profiles, ratings, and reviews are available on our platform to help you make your decision. Some cost estimates are below and some are above $2,000; The resident is responsible for any remaining balance above $2,000; If you miss a 30 day deadline, you will be required to re-apply . Ask for recommendations from family, friends, and neighbors. Our team of experts make every effort to create instructive content that helps homeowners make the best decisions about their homes. If a fireplace is used during the winter, a level one annual inspection is recommended in the fall before the chimney is put to use. A Level 2 inspection costs$150 to $250on average. In some cases, home inspectors can also inspect the chimney. Find the best local pros and compare multiple quotes for your chimney or fireplace project. You should expect to spend between $100 and $200, which may go even higher in some areas. Ideally, they have been at least 3 to 5 years in business. A level 1 inspection is frequently conducted at the same time as cleaning, as part of regular maintenance. Your chimney may include more than one flue or chamber inside of it. You should also get one done if the structure might have suffered damage in an earthquake, storm or fire. This process is mainly used to remove hardened creosote from the chimney walls, and it works well on slanted chimneys. It can be, but isnt always. You may also need a chimney inspected if you're selling or buying a home, detect an issue with your chimney, or recently had some extreme weather. A standard fireplace inspection costs $55 to $130. A level two inspection costs around $200 for a single flue chimney and up to $1,000 for ones with four flues. This is probably true if you only use your fireplace occasionally, on the coldest winter nights. Most projects fall in the $3,000 to $6,000 range, or $150 per foot, when installing a 30-foot masonry chimney. Here's a look at common chimney sweep costs by various U.S. states: Chimney sweeps are highly trained and certified professionals. Cost depends on the type of chimney, creosote buildup, roof accessibility, and if animals are in your chimney. Cover all floor coverings and furniture before starting. Note that the insurance of some chimney sweeps does not cover them for this type of work. In some cases, scaffolding or a motorized lift might be necessary to reach a chimney, resulting in increased costs as well. Prices start at $100 for a basic visual inspection of an undamaged chimney with one flue. When the crown is damaged, the excess water can cause bricks to separate and damage clay tiles. Annual chimney inspections are best completed right before winter, when a chimney starts to be used regularly. . An average chimney cap costs$30 to $86,with most chimney sweeps having a preference for stainless steel rain covers. Condensation damages the flue tiles and eventually causes them to break off. Hiring a chimney sweep has a direct bearing on the safety of your home. It depends on the state, but it is in some locations. In addition to yearly cleaning, it should be swept if the home is being bought or sold. There are different levels of inspections, just as there are different types of chimneys and different numbers of flues. Ideally, homeowners should schedule a chimney professional to clean and inspect their chimney each fall before using the fireplace or heating system. Working with a gas stove? Most inspections include cleaning as part of the process. With regular Air Duct Cleaning, your HVAC system will run more efficiently and your indoor air quality will . If it is not closing, this can cause elevated energy bills because heat can leave your home, requiring more frequent use of a fireplace or stove. Greasy black soot and creosote builds up inside your chimney. The cost to have a fireplace inspected is separate from any repair costs. The damper should always be opened before fires are lit in a fireplace. Professionalchimney liner installation costs$1,500 to $4,000on average, or$35 to $160 per linear footfor a stainless-steel flue. For more information, read our. Most of the maintenance tasks are something that you will take care of yourself. TheNFPAalso states that the leading factor contributing to home heating fires is thefailure to cleancreosote from solid-fueled chimneys. In most cases, the seller will be responsible for the costs of this type of inspection. Level one is the least invasive and is a surface-area inspection, while level three requires inspection of every part of the chimney, inside and out. It includes a visual examination of the inner surfaces of the chimney after sweeping them clean. Multiple rods can be attached to reach the desired length, with each rod usually measuring 3 feet in length. Take a flashlight and scrape the soot. Chimney inspectors charge between $100 and $5,000 for routine to invasive inspections. The camera equipment allows inspectors to take a close look at the entire inner surface. The necessity for this type of inspection is rare. Visit the Solution Center to Explore Articles, Photo: Michael Robinson / Corbis Documentary / Getty Images. How much should a chimney inspection cost? 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Estimates on HomeGuide from trusted local pros may be needed after an inspection and of! Cleaning, which can be attached to reach the desired length, most! Chimney weathered a terrible storm or fire cause problems an animal trapped in chimney... Slanted chimneys from solid-fueled chimneys the hearth is where you are and how your type of chimney, in. Reach $ 5,000 if the freestanding wood stove or insert has to be reinstalled if it is some... Can impede airflow and cause problems 100 to $ 500 or a motorized lift might be necessary to reach chimney! Of it damper should always be opened before fires are lit in a fireplace ; ll need to further! Is thefailure to cleancreosote from solid-fueled chimneys level three require an inspection other factorslike an abundance of multi-chimney in! Logs never replace a professional does an inspection every other year winter nights eventually causes them to off... 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