Chimney Inspection in Batavia, IL
NFPA 211 Chimney Inspections in Batavia & the Fox Valley
An inspection tells you whether your chimney is safe to use. We follow the NFPA 211 standard and show you, in photos, exactly what we find.
The Three Levels of Inspection
NFPA 211 defines three levels of chimney inspection, and the right one depends on your situation. A Level 1 is the routine annual check for a system in regular use with no changes. A Level 2 is required when you are buying or selling a home, after a chimney fire or weather event, or when you change fuels or appliances. A Level 3 is the most thorough, used when a serious hazard is suspected and hidden areas must be opened up to confirm it.
Most homeowners need a Level 1 each year and a Level 2 at the time of a home sale. We will tell you which level fits before we begin so there are no surprises.
Whatever the level, we document the firebox, damper, flue, liner, crown, cap and the exterior masonry. You get a clear report of what is sound, what needs attention and what can wait, backed by photos so you are never asked to take a problem on faith.
What Is Included
What We Evaluate
Flue & Liner
We check the liner for cracks, gaps and deterioration that could let heat or gases reach the surrounding structure.
Crown, Cap & Flashing
We inspect the crown and cap for cracks and the flashing for leaks, the most common entry points for water damage.
Masonry & Structure
We look at the brick and mortar for spalling, cracks and lean that signal a structural concern.
Clearances & Connections
We confirm proper clearances to combustible materials and, for stoves and inserts, that connections are correct.
When to Call
When You Need an Inspection
- You are buying or selling a home with a fireplace (Level 2)
- You have had a chimney fire, a lightning strike or an earthquake
- You are switching from wood to gas or adding an insert
- You see water stains on the ceiling or wall near the chimney
- You have not had a professional inspection in over a year
- You just bought a home and do not know the chimney history
Why Titan
A Crew You Can Trust in Your Home
Insured & Bonded
Full insurance and a surety bond protect your home on every visit.
We Work to NFPA 211
Our methods follow the national standard for chimney and venting service.
Family-Owned
Founder Steve Ryan and his crew live and work right here in the Fox Valley.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of inspection do I need?
For a yearly check with no changes, a Level 1 is right. For a home sale, after a chimney fire or when changing appliances, you need a Level 2. A Level 3 is reserved for confirming a suspected serious hazard. We help you choose before we start.
Do I need an inspection to sell my house?
A Level 2 inspection is the standard for a real-estate transaction. It gives the buyer, seller and inspector a documented picture of the chimney condition and helps the sale move forward.
How long does an inspection take?
A Level 1 takes about 30 to 45 minutes. A Level 2 takes longer because it includes video scanning of the flue and a closer look at accessible areas.
Do you use a camera in the flue?
Yes, for Level 2 and Level 3 inspections we run a video camera up the flue so we can see cracks and damage that are impossible to judge from the ground.
Can you sweep and inspect in the same visit?
Yes. Many homeowners pair the annual sweep with a Level 1 inspection. The flue needs to be clean for the inspection to be accurate, so the two fit together well.
What happens if you find a problem?
We show you the issue in photos, explain how serious it is and lay out your options. We never pressure you, and if the chimney is safe we tell you that plainly.
Is a gas fireplace inspected too?
Yes. Gas units burn cleaner, but the venting, connections and clearances still need to be checked each year for safe operation.
How often should I have an inspection?
NFPA 211 recommends a professional inspection at least once a year, even if the fireplace sees light use.
Schedule Your Inspection
Know your chimney is safe before you light the first fire of the season. Call to book.
Open daily 7:00 AM – 9:30 PM · Batavia, IL & the Fox Valley