Chimney inspection levels

Level I: the annual check

For a working system with no changes. The pro looks over the accessible parts, checks the flue with a light or basic camera, and confirms the chimney is still safe to burn. This is the yearly inspection.

Level II: the transaction check

Required when the house sells, when the appliance or fuel type changes, or after a known event like a chimney fire or earthquake. A camera goes down the flue and the inspection covers everything Level I does plus the hidden interior.

Level III: the invasive check

For problems the camera cannot reach. Parts of the chimney structure get opened to expose what is behind them. Rare, and only when a Level II turns up something that has to be seen directly.