Buying a Home? What to Look for in a Chimney Inspection in Boone & Johnson City
(A Must-Read Guide for Homebuyers & Realtors in Western NC & East TN)
You’ve just found the perfect home in Boone, NC, or Johnson City, TN—the mountain views are stunning, the cozy fireplace is calling your name, and you can already picture yourself enjoying crisp fall evenings by the fire.
But let me ask you this—do you know the last time that chimney was professionally inspected?
If the seller says, “Oh, we haven’t used it in years,” or “The home inspector gave it a quick look,” that should raise a red flag.
At Ember Keepers, we work with homebuyers, realtors, and home inspectors to ensure that fireplaces and chimneys aren’t hiding expensive surprises.
Before you sign on the dotted line, here’s what you need to know.
Why a General Home Inspection Isn’t Enough
Most buyers assume that if a home inspector glances at the fireplace, they’re covered. Not true.
Home inspectors do a basic visual check, but they don’t have the specialized tools or training to fully evaluate internal chimney damage, creosote buildup, or structural issues.
That’s where a Level 2 Chimney Inspection comes in—the industry standard for real estate transactions.
💡 Skipping a proper chimney inspection could mean thousands in unexpected repairs down the road.
What’s Included in a Level 2 Chimney Inspection?
A real estate chimney inspection from Ember Keepers includes:
✔ Internal Camera Inspection – High-definition video of the flue interior to check for cracks, blockages, or deterioration
✔ Masonry & Structural Evaluation – Examining the chimney crown, brickwork, and mortar joints for stability
✔ Chimney Cap & Crown Assessment – Ensuring protection against rain, debris, and animals
✔ Liner & Flue Condition Check – The most important part of chimney safety—many older chimneys lack a proper liner
✔ Smoke Chamber & Damper Functionality – Ensuring proper airflow and ventilation
✔ Creosote & Soot Buildup Analysis – Excessive buildup is a fire hazard and must be removed
💡 Most chimney problems are hidden from view—this inspection is the only way to uncover them before closing.
The Most Common Chimney Issues Found in Home Inspections
Homeowners love fireplaces, but many don’t maintain them properly. We regularly uncover:
🚨 Cracked or Missing Chimney Liners – A fire hazard and expensive to replace
🚨 Hidden Water Damage – Leaks can cause mold, rust, and chimney deterioration
🚨 Unlined Chimneys – Many older homes (pre-1950s) never had a proper liner
🚨 Previous Chimney Fires – A weakened flue liner can be dangerous
🚨 Blockages from Animals or Debris – Bird nests, creosote buildup, and structural collapses can all restrict airflow
💡 Wouldn’t you rather know about these issues before buying the home?
What to Ask Before Closing on a Home with a Fireplace
If the seller or realtor can’t confidently answer these questions, it’s time to book a chimney inspection.
🔹 When was the last professional chimney inspection? (Not a home inspector—an actual chimney specialist?)
🔹 Has the chimney been used recently? (Inactive chimneys can still develop major issues.)
🔹 Is there a chimney liner, and what condition is it in? (No liner = major repair costs.)
🔹 Are there visible cracks, leaks, or missing components? (A bad chimney can lead to costly water damage.)
💡 Not knowing these answers could cost you thousands in unexpected repairs.
How Much Does a Chimney Inspection Cost?
A Level 2 Chimney Inspection from Ember Keepers costs $325 – $375.
💡 Compare that to the cost of unexpected repairs:
✔ Chimney liner replacement? $2,500 – $4,000
✔ Major masonry repair? $1,500 – $5,000+
✔ Chimney rebuild? $10,000+
A $325 inspection could save you thousands.
How Much Does a Chimney Inspection Cost?
If you’re buying a home with a fireplace or wood stove, our EmberGuard Membership helps protect your investment.
🔥 Annual Chimney Inspection – Included at a reduced rate
🔥 Annual Chimney Sweep – Keeps your system clean and running efficiently
🔥 4% Off Future Repairs – Save on any necessary chimney work
🔥 4% Off Gas Log Sets & Inserts – Thinking about an upgrade? Get it for less
🔥 Priority Scheduling – Get service when you need it, even during peak season
🔥 Insurance & Warranty Documentation – Hassle-free proof of maintenance
💡 It’s the easiest way for new homeowners to stay ahead of maintenance and avoid costly surprises.
Why Homebuyers & Realtors Trust Ember Keepers
At Ember Keepers, we’ve helped countless homebuyers, realtors, and sellers navigate the fireplace inspection process with confidence.
✅ Certified & Experienced Technicians – Trusted by homebuyers & real estate professionals
✅ Advanced Camera Inspections – We find hidden problems others miss
✅ Detailed Reports for Buyers & Sellers – Easy-to-understand findings to negotiate repairs before closing
✅ Serving Boone, Burnsville, Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol & More
💡 If you’re buying a home in Western NC or Eastern TN, we’re the ones to call.
