Chimney Service · DeKalb, IL
Chimney Inspection in DeKalb, IL
A camera inspection shows exactly what is happening inside your flue — cracks, blockages, liner damage — before it becomes a fire or a leak. We run Level 1 and Level 2 inspections across DeKalb County.
A chimney inspection is a documented check of the flue, liner, masonry and connections to confirm your chimney is safe to use. The NFPA defines three levels; most homes need a Level 1, while a home sale, a chimney fire, or an appliance change calls for a Level 2. Imperial uses a video camera on every inspection so you see what we see — no guesswork, and no repairs you don’t actually need.
Level 1 — the annual check
A Level 1 inspection covers the readily accessible parts of the chimney and venting: the firebox, damper, visible flue and exterior. It is the right inspection for a chimney in continued service under the same conditions, and it pairs naturally with your annual sweep.
Level 2 — sales, changes and after a fire
A Level 2 inspection adds a video scan of the full flue interior and a check of accessible attic, crawl space and roof areas. The NFPA calls for one when you buy or sell a home, change fuels or appliances, or after an event that may have damaged the chimney — a chimney fire, a lightning strike or an earthquake.
Level 3 — when hidden damage is suspected
A Level 3 inspection is the most thorough and may involve removing part of the chimney or wall to reach concealed areas. We only recommend it when a Level 1 or 2 points to a serious hidden problem — never as a default.
What our camera finds
A visual check from the bottom misses most of the flue. Our camera reveals cracked flue tiles, gaps in the liner, creosote glaze, nesting animals and water damage — the exact issues that lead to chimney fires, carbon monoxide and leaks. You get a straight answer about what is safe and what is not.
What your inspection report documents
An inspection is only as useful as the record it produces. When we finish, you get a clear account of what we examined and what we found: the condition of the flue liner, the firebox and smoke chamber, the crown, cap and flashing, the masonry, and any creosote buildup, along with our specific recommendations. For a Level 2 inspection tied to a home sale, that documentation is exactly what a buyer, seller or insurer will want to see — proof the chimney was professionally evaluated and a straight answer on whether it is safe to use.
The real cost of skipping an inspection
An inspection is inexpensive; the problems it catches are not. A cracked flue tile found early means a straightforward reline; found after a chimney fire it means a dangerous flue and a bigger repair. A hairline crown crack sealed now costs a fraction of the masonry rebuild it prevents. A blocked flue caught in the fall avoids a smoke-filled room — or worse, carbon monoxide — in the winter. The annual inspection is the single most cost-effective habit a fireplace owner can keep, because it converts expensive surprises into small, planned maintenance.
Serving DeKalb County and beyond
Imperial Chimney Sweepers is based at 1600 E Lincoln Hwy in DeKalb and covers 20-plus surrounding towns — from Sycamore and Cortland to Sandwich, Genoa and Rochelle. See our full service area or explore related work: Chimney Sweeping Chimney Relining Chimney Repair.
Insured & Bonded. Every job is done to NFPA 211 standards by the crew whose name is on the truck. Call (815) 449-4265 for a quote.
Good to Know
Frequently asked questions
When do I need a Level 2 inspection?
A Level 2 is called for when you buy or sell a home, change your heating appliance or fuel, or after a chimney fire or other event that could have damaged the chimney.
Do you use a camera?
Yes. Every inspection includes a video scan of the flue so you can see cracks, blockages or liner damage for yourself.
How long does an inspection take?
A Level 1 takes about 30 to 45 minutes. A Level 2 with a full camera scan and roof and attic checks takes longer.
Should I inspect before buying a house?
Yes — a Level 2 inspection before closing is the standard, since the buyer inherits any hidden flue or liner problems.
What is checked during a Level 1 inspection?
The accessible firebox, damper, visible flue, connections and exterior masonry — enough to confirm a chimney in normal service is safe to keep using.
Can you inspect a chimney you don’t sweep?
Yes, we perform standalone inspections, though most homeowners pair the inspection with their annual sweep.
What happens if you find a problem?
We show you the footage, explain the issue in plain terms, and give you honest options — from a simple repair to relining. There is never pressure to over-buy.
Are you insured?
Yes — Imperial Chimney Sweepers is fully insured and bonded, and we inspect to NFPA 211 standards.
Schedule a chimney inspection
Talk to Chuck’s crew directly — 7 days a week, 7am to 9pm.