CSIA-Certified Chimney Inspections in San Jose and the South Bay
A chimney inspection is a certified technician’s evaluation of your flue, chimney structure, and connected appliance to confirm it is safe to use. There are three CSIA-defined levels: Level 1 for a routine annual check, Level 2 for home sales, insurance, or after a chimney fire, and Level 3 for suspected hidden damage that requires removing part of the chimney or wall to inspect.
Signs You Need an Inspection
Inspections are about what you cannot see. These situations all call for a certified look inside.
- You are buying or selling a home with a wood-burning or gas fireplace
- You just had a chimney fire, even a small one
- You are switching fuel types or relining the flue
- There is visible water staining, spalling brick, or a leaning chimney crown
- It has simply been a year since the last inspection
What Each Level Covers
Level 1
Visual check of readily accessible parts of the chimney, flue, and connections. Standard for annual maintenance on a chimney with no known issues.
Level 2
Everything in Level 1 plus a video scan of the flue interior, attic, and crawlspace access points. Required for real estate transactions, insurance claims, and after any chimney fire or major weather event.
Level 3
Everything in Level 2 plus removal of chimney or wall components to access a suspected hazard. Used when Level 1 or 2 findings point to hidden structural damage.
Our Process
Confirm the Level
Confirm the right level for your situation, whether that is routine maintenance, a home sale, or a post-fire check.
Visual Evaluation
Visual evaluation of all readily accessible parts of the chimney, flue, and appliance connections.
Video Scan
Video scan of the flue interior for Level 2 and 3 inspections, documenting condition at every height.
Written Report
A written report with photos and video, plus a clear repair recommendation and quote if anything needs attention..
Why Choose SV Chimney Sweep
Our inspections are performed by CSIA-certified technicians, meeting the standard that home insurers and real estate transactions require. We provide a written report with photos and video for every Level 2 and 3 inspection, not just a verbal summary. Bonded and insured, with 139+ five-star Google reviews from South Bay clients.
CSIA Inspections Across the South Bay
We perform CSIA inspections throughout San Jose, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Mountain View, Palo Alto, and the surrounding South Bay.
Same-Day Service Available
Call before noon and we will do our best to get a certified technician out to you the same day. Open Sunday through Friday.
1269 Lakeside Dr, Sunnyvale, CA 94085
Chimney Inspection FAQ
What level of inspection do I need to sell my house?
Most real estate transactions and insurance requirements call for a Level 2 inspection, which includes a video scan of the flue interior.
How long does a chimney inspection take?
A Level 1 inspection takes about 30 to 45 minutes. Level 2, with the video scan, typically takes 60 to 90 minutes.
Does a chimney inspection include a sweep?
Not automatically. Many homeowners bundle a Level 1 inspection with a routine sweep, but they are billed and performed as separate services.
What happens if the inspection finds damage?
You will get a written report with photos or video showing the issue, along with a repair recommendation and quote. There is no obligation to book the repair with us.
