In rural areas, the cost is typically less. The cost of a chimney inspection will cost more (as would just about anything) in a metropolitan area like New York City, Chicago, or Los Angeles. Brick is the least expensive type of chimney to repair, while metal and prefabricated chimneys are slightly more expensive, and stucco chimneys are, by far, the most expensive. The type of fireplace is another factor contributing to chimney repair costs. Smaller repairs, such as the replacement of a chimney cap, will cost less, while larger repairs, like repairing crumbling brick or fixing a leaning stack, will cost much more. On average, chimney repairs cost between $200 and $1,050. Whether it’s damage from a small fire, the aftermath of a storm, or simply the effects of time, repairs must be handled before continuing to use the fireplace. Chimney Repairĭuring an inspection, particularly a level two or three, you may be told that there are chimney repairs that need to be made. Be sure to choose a professional, humane wildlife trap and removal service to handle a job like this. On average, it will cost between $155 and $575. The cost for animal removal will depend on both the species of animal and the number of animals. This must be taken care of prior to any inspection, unless the unwanted animals were discovered during the inspection. Type of ChimneyĬommon animals like birds, bats, and squirrels often seek shelter or become trapped inside of chimneys. Gas and wood-burning fireplaces are the least expensive type of chimney to have professionally cleaned, while wood and pellet stoves are the most expensive types to have cleaned. If it isn’t included in the cost of your inspection, a typical chimney sweep costs between $110 and $290. Their purpose is to remove any soot or creosote buildup from all parts of the structure and ensure that your fireplace is safe and ready to use. Chimney SweepĬhimney sweeps are typically included in a level one inspection and often level two as well. When you have your chimney inspected, you may find that you also need some of the following services, which will add to your costs. See Pricing In Your Area Related Services By catching problems early, through routine maintenance procedures, you’re saving yourself from far more expensive inspections and repairs in the long run. Those who don’t schedule their annual inspections, or keep up with cleanings, will find that their fireplace and chimney systems present more issues during the rainy and snowy seasons. Homeowners who keep up with the general maintenance of their fireplace, including regular chimney sweeps and annual chimney inspections, typically save money in the end. Also, larger chimneys undergoing a level three inspection that requires the removal of some of their parts will require you to pay more for repairs. This particularly pertains to level one and two inspections.Ĭhimneys containing multiple flues will have higher costs to maintain than ones with a single flue. Size can hugely affect chimney inspection costs. Chimney SizeĬhimneys come in all shapes and sizes, and some are more manageable than others. A job consisting of a visual assessment from the base of the fireplace will cost much less than one requiring the inspector to manage a tricky roof, climb into an attic, or army crawl through a spider-web-infested crawlspace. The accessibility to all parts of the fireplace and chimney will affect the overall cost. Many factors come into play, aside from levels, when determining the total cost of a chimney inspection. This not only costs more for the inspection but presents an additional cost in fireplace and home repairs once the inspection is completed. Often, parts of the chimney and its surrounding structure need to be removed in order to assess the damages fully. These inspections are much more invasive. Level three inspections are performed when major structural damages are suspected in your fireplace or chimney. Level two inspections also include a general chimney cleaning. These inspections may involve cameras to assess interior damages and provide access to the roof, attic, and crawl spaces to look at the entire fireplace and chimney structure. Level two inspections are used in assessing damage from chimney fires, major storms, and other natural disasters. Level one inspections are typically performed during routine chimney sweeps and vice versa. This inspection costs between $95 and $950.ĭuring a level one inspection, professionals will sweep the fireplace and chimney looking for any cracks in the foundation, an excess of creosote buildup within the smoke chamber, and other clear signs of damage throughout. They are also often completed in the purchase or sale of a home. Level one inspections are your annual inspections, typically done in preparation for the cold season when your fireplace is most frequently used.
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