A chimney inspection tells you whether your chimney is safe to use, what it needs, and how urgently. Bison follows the three inspection levels defined by NFPA 211, the national fire code standard for chimneys, and every inspection ends with a written report and photos rather than a verbal "looks fine."
Buying or selling a home in Johnson County? A Level 2 inspection with a flue camera is the one that matters. Home inspectors are not required to look inside the flue, and hidden cracks in clay flue tiles are the most common surprise we find in Overland Park, Prairie Village and Leawood homes.
What's included in our chimney inspections
- Level 1: visual check of accessible parts of the chimney, flue and appliance connection
- Level 2: everything in Level 1 plus a video camera scan of the full flue, attic and crawlspace access, and a written report
- Level 3: Level 2 plus removal of components (chase cover, wall sections) when a serious hazard is suspected
- Photos and a plain-language summary emailed the same day
- Repair estimate if anything needs attention, with no obligation
Which inspection level do I need?
A Level 1 inspection is the annual check for a chimney that has not changed and has been used normally. It is included with every Bison chimney sweep.
A Level 2 inspection is required by NFPA 211 whenever something changes: you are buying or selling the property, you replaced the furnace, water heater or fireplace insert, you switched fuel types, or there has been a chimney fire, lightning strike, or other event that could have damaged the flue. It adds a camera scan of the entire flue interior.
A Level 3 inspection is rare. It is ordered when a Level 2 finds a hazard that can only be confirmed by opening up part of the chimney or wall.
What the camera finds that eyes cannot
Clay flue tiles crack from thermal shock, settling and chimney fires, and the cracks are almost never visible from the firebox or the roof. Our chimney camera travels the full length of the flue and records every joint. Gaps in the mortar joints between tiles, missing tiles, glazed creosote, offset liners and animal nests all show up clearly, and you get the footage.
When to schedule a chimney inspection
- You are buying or selling a home
- A new furnace, water heater or insert was connected to the chimney
- You had a chimney fire, even a small one
- You see white staining, spalling brick or rust on the damper
- You just moved in and do not know the chimney history
Noticing any of these? Call (913) 555-0100 and we will get you scheduled.
Chimney Inspections: frequently asked questions
How much does a chimney inspection cost?
A Level 1 inspection is included with a sweep. Level 2 camera inspections are priced flat per flue, and we quote it before booking. Call for current pricing.
Is a chimney inspection required to sell a house in Kansas?
It is not required by law, but most buyers and many lenders and insurers ask for one, and NFPA 211 calls for a Level 2 inspection on any sale or transfer of property.
How long does a Level 2 inspection take?
Usually 60 to 90 minutes per flue, including the camera scan and report.
Can you inspect a chimney that has not been cleaned?
We can, but heavy creosote hides the flue walls. If the flue is dirty we recommend a sweep first so the camera can actually see the tiles.
Where we offer chimney inspections
Based in Overland Park, serving all of Johnson County and the Kansas City metro with no trip fees.
