A proper chimney inspection tells you what you can’t see—inside the flue, behind smoke stains, and at vulnerable transitions where problems start. Whether you’re buying a home in Bristol, CT, adding a stove or insert, or simply staying ahead of maintenance, our Level I and camera‑assisted Level II inspections give you clarity and a plan.
We document liner condition, tile joints, offsets, previous repairs, and clearances to combustibles. We assess crowns, caps, and flashing for the moisture paths that cause staining and spalling. When needed, we scope the flue and provide photos with a written report. Our inspectors translate technical findings into plain language so you can decide confidently.
Inspections are also the best way to set priorities. If your system needs relining, smoke chamber parging, or crown rebuilding, we’ll explain why, how it’s fixed, and what can wait—so you invest where it matters most.
Level I: Annual, visual inspection for systems under consistent service. We check accessible components from the hearth and exterior—firebox, damper, smoke chamber, crown, cap, and visible flashing—to identify damage, obstructions, or creosote accumulation.
Level II: Camera‑assisted internal review recommended after a change in fuel or appliance, following a chimney fire, during a real‑estate transaction, or when symptoms suggest issues (smoke, odors, poor draft). We scan the flue to evaluate tile integrity, gaps, and offsets, and we verify clearances where construction allows.
Cracked or Missing Tile Joints: Age, thermal shock, or prior chimney fires can open joints and allow heat to reach masonry and combustibles.
Crown Failures: Non‑sloped, thin, or cracked crowns let water infiltrate, leading to spalling and leaks along the flue and down into the smoke chamber.
Improper or Missing Caps: Without a fitted cap and spark arrestor, rain, animals, and debris enter easily. Water is the enemy of masonry.
Flashing Gaps: Where the chimney meets the roof is a frequent leak point; step and counter‑flashing must be integrated correctly with roofing materials.
Improper Liner Sizing: Changes from oil to gas or the addition of inserts often require a new liner sized to the appliance for proper draft and safety.
Interview & History: We discuss usage, symptoms, appliance changes, and any prior work. This context helps us target likely problem areas.
Exterior & Roofline: We look at the stack for lean, brick and mortar integrity, crown slope and overhang, cap fit, and flashing details.
Interior: We assess the firebox, damper operation, smoke chamber transitions, and smoke shelf. If needed, we deploy a camera to scope the flue from top or bottom.
Documentation: We record notes and images and deliver a plain‑language summary with recommended next steps and estimates as requested.
For buyers and sellers in Bristol, CT, a Level II inspection is the gold standard to avoid surprises. It reveals hidden damage and confirms that the venting system is appropriate for the intended appliance. We frequently coordinate with agents and provide timely documentation so closings stay on schedule.
If we find urgent hazards, we’ll identify safe‑use limitations until repairs are made. Our goal is to protect your family and investment while giving you clear options.
Not every recommendation needs to happen at once. We help you stage work sensibly—addressing active leaks and safety hazards first, then planning upgrades like relining or damper improvements. We provide transparent pricing and timelines so you can budget confidently.
How long does an inspection take? Level I typically takes under an hour; Level II varies with access and findings.
Do you provide photos? Yes, we include images when useful to explain conditions and recommendations.
Can you inspect gas systems? Absolutely. Gas appliances still require correct liners and terminations, and masonry still needs moisture protection.
Call (860) 362‑9193 to schedule your inspection or request a quote online. We’ll deliver answers, not guesswork.