How Much Does a Fireplace Inspection Cost?
A fireplace inspection can cost between $300 and $600 on average. Here’s what to know.
Written by Bonnie Stinson
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
A fireplace inspection can cost between $300 and $600, with the national average hovering around $450. However, if you have an extensive amount of damage to your fireplace, inspection prices can reach up to $5,000.
A fireplace is the perfect comfy addition to your home—but it can also be an expensive problem if it’s damaged or not functioning properly. Getting a fireplace inspection is essential for making sure your fireplace and chimney are safe to use.
Fortunately, a fireplace inspection costs a lot less than any potential damage that may arise from not getting it inspected in time.
Jerry
, the top-rated broker app
for homeowners insurance
, has everything you need to navigate through getting a fireplace inspection down below. How much does a fireplace inspection cost?
The average cost of a fireplace inspection is $450, but it could be as low as $300 or as high as $600 (or more).
If the fireplace or chimney has structural damage that can’t be seen unless you tear out the surrounding walls, inspection costs can climb as high as $5,000.
The cost of your fireplace inspection will depend on what level of inspection you need:
Level of inspection | Description | Average cost |
|---|---|---|
Level 1 | Usually done as part of your yearly fireplace maintenance, this includes a cleaning of the inner surfaces of the fireplace and a visual inspection. | $100 to $950 |
Level 2 | These inspections are usually reserved for fireplaces that have been damaged by fire or storms. A more thorough inspection is needed to determine the extent of the damage. | $200 to $1,000 |
Level 3 | This level is for chimneys or fireplaces with extensive structural damage. In some cases, walls may have to be removed to accurately assess the damage. | $500 to $5,000 |
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A regular home inspection usually only includes a brief visual examination of the fireplace and chimney. It won’t reveal any structural damage hidden by walls or brickwork, so keep that in mind before selling or purchasing a home with a fireplace.
Do I need a fireplace inspection?
You should get your fireplace inspected at least once a year, even if you don’t use it very often. An inspection can reveal build-ups of creosote (a potential fire hazard), the presence of pests, structural damage, or any issues that could lead to
carbon monoxide poisoning from your fireplace
.You should also get your fireplace inspected if your home has been involved in a fire, earthquake, or strong storm, as there could be hidden structural damage that will render your fireplace unsafe to use.
Fireplace inspections are required before selling a home with a fireplace. The inspection will need to be at least a level two inspection carried out by a certified inspector, and you’ll need to have proof available to any potential buyers.
Potential buyers can also request a fireplace inspection on a home they’re thinking about buying if the seller hasn’t had one done yet.
Here are some other signs that you’re due for a fireplace inspection:
- It’s been over a year since the last time your fireplace was inspected
- You notice any damage to the outside masonry on your chimney
- You notice black crumbly debris on your firebox floor
- There are any changes to your walls or ceiling, like bubbling or peeling paint and wallpaper, or signs of water damage
- There’s an excessive amount of smoke blowing into the room instead of going up the chimney
- Your fireplace isn’t putting off as much heat as it used to
- Animals or birds have dropped debris or built nests in your chimney
MORE: When to walk away after a home inspection
What’s involved in a fireplace inspection
The amount of time it takes to conduct a fireplace inspection and how thorough the inspection is will depend on the level of inspection taking place.
Here’s what to expect from each level of fireplace inspection:
- Level 1: Usually takes around an hour to complete. An inspector will thoroughly examine the inner surfaces of the fireplace and chimney for obvious signs of damage or creosote buildup.
- Level 2: Usually takes two hours or more. Inspectors will clean all the interior surfaces of the fireplace and chimney, then inspect for damage. The inspector will scan every surface, from the bottom of the fireplace all the way to the top of the chimney and any additional flues.
- Level 3: Can take up to several days to complete. Inspectors will remove building materials and walls to assess any structural damage that might be present in the fireplace or chimney.
MORE: Cozy vibes: how to light a gas fireplace
How to save on homeowners insurance
A fireplace can add a lot of coziness to your home, or it can rack up some expensive repair bills. You can avoid fireplace and chimney issues with yearly fireplace inspections—and having quality home insurance can give you even more peace of mind when it comes to your home.
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