Chimney inspection is how you find problems before they become fires or structural failures. Texas Chimney Experts performs all three NFPA 211 inspection levels — Level 1 (annual visual), Level 2 (video flue scan, real-estate transactions), and Level 3 (destructive diagnostic) — across the DFW Metroplex. Texas Chimney Experts handles this work across the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex following NFPA 211 standards. Free inspection, written quote, no surprise fees.
What’s actually involved
Chimney inspection is the formal documentation of a chimney’s condition. NFPA 211 defines three levels — Level 1 is the annual visual baseline, Level 2 adds a video flue scan and is required for real-estate sales / post-fire / post-storm, and Level 3 opens up structure to diagnose hidden damage.
Level 1 (visual): Readily accessible portions only — exterior, firebox, accessible flue. Bundled at no extra cost with every sweep. Required annually under existing conditions.
Level 2 (video scan): Everything in Level 1 plus accessible attic/crawl portions and a full video scan of the flue interior. Required by NFPA 211 after any chimney fire, weather event, fuel/appliance change, or before sale of property.
Level 3 (destructive): Required when Level 1 or 2 indicates concealed damage. Involves removing portions of the chimney structure or building components to diagnose. Quoted after Level 2 findings — never our first recommendation.
Why this matters in DFW specifically
DFW chimneys take freeze-thaw, hail, and clay-soil-driven foundation movement year-round. Visible damage from the ground is rarely the full picture — we routinely find cracked flue tiles after hailstorms that left no exterior signs. Annual Level 1 inspection catches early-warning signs (mortar erosion, crown cracks, flashing failures) while they’re affordable repairs. Level 2 after a storm catches the hidden damage that Level 1 cannot.
Our process
- Schedule and access — Confirm time window; we bring ladders, cameras, and PPE for safe roof and flue access.
- Exterior + interior visual — Level 1 visual sweep of exterior, firebox, accessible flue; photos throughout.
- Video flue scan (Level 2 only) — Camera on a flexible rod sent up the flue from the firebox; full video of flue interior, smoke chamber, and damper area recorded.
- Documentation — Written report with photos and (Level 2) video clips. Pass / conditional pass / repair-required, with quote for any work.
Materials and standards
All inspection work follows NFPA 211 (the National Fire Protection Association standard for chimneys, fireplaces, vents, and solid-fuel-burning appliances) and CSIA (Chimney Safety Institute of America) protocols. Our technicians carry general liability insurance and workers’ comp.
Pricing ranges (DFW, 2026)
Real DFW market ranges. Your actual quote depends on access, scope, and what we find on inspection — every job is quoted in writing before work begins.
| Service | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Level 1 inspection (standalone) | $149 – $225 |
| Level 1 bundled with sweep | Included in sweep cost |
| Level 2 inspection (video flue scan) | $295 – $475 |
| Level 3 inspection (destructive diagnostic) | $650 – $1,500+ |
Frequently asked questions
Which level do I need?
If you’re current on annual maintenance and the chimney has no visible issues, Level 1 (bundled with sweep) is enough. For real-estate transactions, post-fire, post-storm, or fuel-change, Level 2. Level 3 only after Level 2 indicates concealed damage.
Is Level 2 always required for a home sale?
Standards bodies recommend it for any real-estate transfer involving a fireplace. Many lenders and buyer’s agents require it. If the buyer is paying cash and waiving inspection contingencies it’s optional, but we strongly recommend it.
How long does an inspection take?
Level 1: 45-60 minutes. Level 2: 90-120 minutes (video scan adds time). Level 3: half-day to full-day depending on scope.
Will you sell me extras during the inspection?
No. We document findings in writing with photos/video and provide a quote for any recommended work. You decide on your timeline; we don’t pressure-sell.
Do you do inspections after a chimney fire?
Yes — and Level 2 is the NFPA 211 requirement after any chimney fire, even a minor one. The video scan checks for cracked flue tiles, which is the most common fire-damage hidden defect.
Related services
Ready to schedule?
Call (972) 920-0833 for chimney inspection across DFW, or use our contact form for email. Same-week scheduling for most calls.