The Chimney Sweeper has been inspecting chimneys across Middle Tennessee since 2009, and we’re bringing that same standard to Columbus. For the vast majority of homeowners, the right yearly service is the annual Level 1 checkup. Whether you’re in a 19th-century rowhouse in German Village, a mid-century home in Clintonville, or a new build in Dublin or New Albany, a Level 1 inspection is the right starting point every single year — a routine visual and physical check of the flue interior, firebox, damper, and exterior masonry that confirms your chimney is structurally sound and clear of obstruction before burning season.
Home age and architectural style don’t change our answer to “which inspection do I need?” the way they might elsewhere. A Level 1 inspection is designed to be the standard annual check for any chimney used under normal conditions, regardless of whether the house was built in 1890 or 2020 — and if our technician does spot something during that visual check that warrants a closer look, such as a Level 2 video scan, we’ll explain exactly why before recommending anything more than the routine visit.
You get a written report of what we found and, if anything needs attention, a flat-fee estimate before we do any further work.
What We Check
- Flue interior — a visual check for creosote buildup, cracks, and obstruction along the accessible portions of the liner.
- Firebox & damper — confirming the damper opens and seals properly and the firebox shows no cracking or heat damage.
- Exterior masonry & crown — checking from the ground and roofline for cracking, spalling, or shifting brick, a common issue after Ohio's freeze-thaw winters.
- Cap & flashing — verifying the cap and roofline flashing are intact and keeping water out.
FAQs
As we build out scheduling for our new Columbus location, we’re taking appointment requests now. Call or submit a request through our contact form and we’ll confirm the earliest available slot in your neighborhood.
A standard annual Level 1 inspection is the right starting point for almost every Columbus home regardless of age, since it covers the flue interior, firebox, damper, and exterior masonry from the ground and roofline. If our technician spots something in an older home that needs a closer look, we’ll explain exactly why before recommending anything beyond that.