A Level 1 inspection is the baseline described by industry guidance for a chimney in continued service under the same conditions — no new appliance, no known problem, no property transfer. We examine the readily accessible portions of the chimney, its structure and the basic appliance connection, and confirm the flue is free of obstruction and sound where we can see it. It is a genuine inspection with documented findings — not simply a cleaning with a friendly verdict attached.
What homeowners notice
- You use the fireplace the same way each year and want an annual check
- Nothing has changed about the appliance or the way you burn
- You want a documented baseline before the cooler months
How we diagnose it
- Readily accessible interior and exterior portions of the chimney and structure
- Basic condition of the firebox, damper and visible flue
- The appliance-to-chimney connection where accessible
- Obvious signs of obstruction, buildup or deterioration
Your options — and their limits
Level 1 on its own
When you simply want the annual check and documentation.
Level 1 with a sweep
A common pairing — clean the flue and confirm it's sound in one visit.
Step up to Level 2
If we find something, or your situation involves a sale or system change, we'll explain why a closer look is warranted rather than guessing.
What affects the price
We don't post flat prices, because an honest number depends on what we actually find. These are the factors that move it:
- Roof access and chimney height
- Whether a cleaning is added to the same visit
- Number of flues to review
When to stop using the system and get it evaluated
- We find buildup or damage that a Level 1's accessible scope can't fully evaluate — we'd recommend a Level 2
- You report smoke, odor or leaks that point to a hidden issue
How to prepare for the visit
- Let the system cool before we arrive
- Have any past service records available
Applies to
Questions homeowners ask
Is a cleaning the same as a Level 1 inspection?
No — and it's an important distinction. A cleaning removes buildup; a Level 1 inspection evaluates and documents the accessible condition of the system. We don't present one as the other.
When is a Level 1 not enough?
When there's a sale, a new appliance, a known problem, or damage we can't fully assess from accessible areas. Then a Level 2 is the right call.
Related services
Chimney Inspection · Level 2 Chimney Inspection · Chimney Cleaning · Chimney Camera Inspection
Serving South Florida
We provide level 1 chimney inspection across Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade. A few of the areas we serve:
Talk to a South Florida chimney technician
Not sure whether it's a cleaning, a repair, or something to look at before your next fire? Tell us what you're noticing and we'll help you figure out the right next step.