Whether you’re preparing for winter, buying or selling a home, or troubleshooting smoke and odor issues, a professional chimney inspection gives you real answers. At Glastonbury Chimney Experts, we provide Level I and Level II inspections in Glastonbury, CT that evaluate safety, code compliance, and structural integrity from the firebox to the chimney cap. Our reports are photo-documented and written in plain language so you can make confident decisions about maintenance or repairs.
New England weather is tough on masonry, liners, and flashing. Freeze–thaw cycles open small cracks; wind-driven rain and ice can damage the crown or cap, and animals often find their way into unprotected flues. Our inspections are designed to catch these issues early—before they turn into costly leaks, smoke spillage, or draft failures.
Level I Inspection: A visual check of readily accessible portions of the chimney, fireplace, flue, and connections. It’s appropriate for annual maintenance when no changes have been made to the system. We verify that clearances are maintained, there are no visible obstructions, and the basic structure appears sound.
Level II Inspection: Required when property is being transferred, after a chimney fire, when a new appliance is installed, or when a system is changed (for example, switching from wood to gas). Level II includes everything in Level I plus video scanning of internal flue surfaces, attic/basement access where applicable, and checks for proper construction and clearances from combustibles. This level provides a much deeper look at tile joints, offsets, liner continuity, and hidden defects.
We follow NFPA 211 and industry best practices to ensure a thorough and accurate result:
Connecticut’s mix of historic and modern homes means chimneys come in many shapes, sizes, and ages. Here are problems we frequently identify in the area:
Selling or buying a home in Glastonbury? A Level II inspection provides the documentation both parties need. Our inspectors coordinate with your realtor, deliver a timely written report, and can provide quotes for any recommended corrections. Buyers appreciate the clarity; sellers gain credibility by proactively addressing safety and code issues.
Gas units still require professional inspections. Improper venting, failed seals, or debris in the pilot/ignition assembly can lead to performance issues and unsafe operation. We check venting pathways, termination caps, glass seals, logs placement, and carbon monoxide risks, and we verify the appliance rating plate against the installed venting system.
Our goal is to provide a report you don’t need a dictionary to read. You’ll get annotated photos, straightforward explanations, and a prioritized plan that separates safety-critical items from preventative maintenance. If repairs are needed—such as relining, smoke chamber parging, tuckpointing, crown rebuild, or cap installation—we supply detailed proposals with material specs (for example, stainless-steel liners, insulation options, elastomeric crown coatings) so you understand exactly what you’re approving.
Many insurers require proof of maintenance and inspection, particularly after a claim or a fire event. Our documentation meets industry standards and can help support insurance conversations. We inspect to NFPA 211 guidelines and reference local building codes applicable to Hartford County municipalities.
How long does an inspection take? Most Level I inspections take 45–60 minutes. Level II inspections typically take 60–90 minutes depending on roof access and flue complexity.
Do I need to be home? Yes, we’ll need access to the interior fireplace, basement or attic (if applicable), and the electrical outlet for vacuum/camera equipment.
Will you go on the roof? When safe and appropriate, yes—especially for Level II inspections to evaluate the crown, cap, and flashing.
What if you find a problem? We’ll document it with photos, explain severity, and provide repair options with timelines and budget ranges.
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