Chimney cleaning and regular maintenance are essential to your fireplace and chimney appliance safety as well as functionality. If the fireplace has been used, you will need a professional chimney sweeping and fireplace safety inspection.

The CSIA (Chimney Safety Institute of America) and the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) recommend that you have the chimney cleaned and inspected by a licensed professional at least once a year. If you've used the fireplace, then you most likely have a dirty chimney flue.

Depending on the type and amount of wood you burn, your chimney appliance may require additional cleanings.

The chimney sweeping process removes the creosote and soot build up that naturally occurs as a by product from wood burning or vented gas fireplaces. These materials will build up rapidly and are highly combustible which is why we recommend allowing a trained professional evaluate and clean the chimney at least once per year.

By having annual chimney cleanings and safety inspections, you can greatly reduce your chances of having a flue fire. Extreme build up can cause blockages inside the flue and essentially hinder the proper function of the appliance. If you are unsure if you need a chimney cleaning, contact your local NFC office to speak with a chimney professional.

Chimney & Fireplace Inspections fall into 3 levels.

Level 1 safety inspection is a visual inspection of the readily accessible areas of the chimney. The technician will be evaluating the safety of the structure, fireworthiness, stability of the interior of the flue and exterior portions.

Level 2 inspections are a more in depth inspection that may require the use of special equipment to scan the interior of the flue to assist in the evaluation. No removal of permanent structures or demolition required.

Level 3 inspections include items in levels 1-2 but also may require removal or demolition of portions of the appliance to access the areas to be inspected. Level 3 inspections may be required when there has been a flue fire or significant safety concerns that cannot be easily accessed.

In most cases, a level 1 safety inspection is sufficient. During your evaluation, your chimney sweep technician will determine and discuss the level of inspection recommended for your fireplace appliance.

All images of the chimney interior or defect found during a chimney safety inspection will be sent to the customer via email upon request.