Fireplace, Chimney Inspections
Know the operational condition and safety
We inspect all visible conditions from
the Bottom up and Top down with a
Level ONE fireplace inspection
Level One Fireplace Inspection
A Level 1 fireplace inspection is important because many serious safety issues—such as creosote buildup, flue damage, venting problems, and hidden moisture intrusion—are not visible during normal use. These conditions can lead to chimney fires, carbon monoxide exposure, and costly structural damage if left undetected. A routine inspection helps identify early-stage defects, ensures the system is operating safely, and provides clear documentation for informed decision-making and liability protection.
A fireplace should never be accepted “as-is” during a real estate transaction.
There are too many safety and expense implications at risk
A Level 1 fireplace inspection is the standard inspection performed when the fireplace and chimney are in normal service and no known problems or modifications have occurred. The goal is to verify that the readily accessible components of the fireplace and chimney system are safe, functional, and free of obvious defects.
Typical items inspected include:
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Chimney crown condition
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Chimney cap presence and condition
- Firebox, damper, smoke shelf condition
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Masonry or siding condition of the chimney structure
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Flashing and counter-flashing where the chimney meets the roof
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Signs of settlement, leaning, or structural damage
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Visible cracks in masonry or mortar joints
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Proper termination height above the roof
These components are important because failures here can allow water intrusion, structural damage, and chimney deterioration.
” Fireplaces fail silently, out of view
Thats why inspection matters “
When should I get a level 1 FP Inspection
- During a real estate transaction, Buying or Selling
- Purchasing a home with an existing fireplace
- You are unsure of the fireplace maintenance history
- The fireplace has not been used in several seasons
- Preventative maintenance, safey checks
- You are unsure of the fireplace maintenance history
- The fireplace has not been used in several seasons
- This inspection verifies that the fireplace is safe for use before it is placed back into service.
when it comes to fireplaces and chimneys,
what you don’t see can matter the most
Common issues with Chimney’s
- Moisture Intrusion
Failed chimney crown, flashing, or missing cap leading to water damage. - Flue Blockages
Debris, nests, or animal intrusion restricting proper draft and ventilation. - Damper Defects
Stuck, rusted, or non-sealing dampers affecting performance and efficiency. - Improper Clearances to Combustibles
Wood or trim too close to heat sources, creating a fire risk. - Improper Venting (Gas Systems)
Loose, disconnected, or improperly sloped vent connectors causing CO hazards. - Missing or Damaged Chimney Cap
Allows water, animals, and debris to enter the chimney system. - Unsafe or Improper Modifications
Poorly installed inserts or alterations that compromise safety and performance.
Qualified Fireplace Experts
- We are licensed, trained, and certified to perform fireplace inspections in Virginia and North Carolina
- Over 30 years experience
- Video reports delivered the same day
“We are not sales contractors, just experienced inspectors delivering the honest truth about your fireplace condition”
This home had 3 chimneys and 9 fireplace flues
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Level 1 fireplace inspection?
- A basic visual inspection of readily accessible components such as the firebox, mantle, hearth, flue, damper, chimney exterior and top
When should it be performed?
- Annually, before seasonal use, or when the system has been used regularly with no known issues.
- During a real estate transaction.
Does it include a report?
- Yes, a level 1 fireplace inspection includes reporting with photos, narrated videos and descriptions of defects.
- The report recommends repair directives using appropriate contractors.
Does a gas fireplace need inspection?
- Yes. Gas systems still require inspection of venting, burner operation, and safety clearances.
What are inspectors looking for?
- Creosote buildup, cracks, damage, blockages, moisture intrusion, damages flues, rust-through, and improper installations.
- We inspect visible areas of the flue from the bottom up and from the top down, where possible without dismanteling.
What is NOT included?
- No camera scan, no dismantling, no concealed inspection, and no cleaning.
When is a Level 2 inspection needed?
- After damage, structural issues or when significant hazards are suspected.
How long does it take?
- Typically 25–45 minutes.
Why is it important?
- To identify safety risk and operational issues
- Disclose conditions that represent additional repair exspense
- To determine if a level 2 inspection and repairs are needed.
Schedule your inspection now
Schedule here, and reserve your appointment. Our office will call you shortly to work out any details and confirm with you
Or you can call / text and we'll get you scheduled quickly
757 495 2300
Top rated, #1 Trusted
M B
6 months ago
Saved me a lot of money and trouble.
K C
6 months ago
You did such a great job, thank you.
William Ashman
6 months ago
Dan and his team have been great to work with! They really care about their work and have the knowledge and experience to do a thorough inspection with a detailed fully documented report. Dan was also extremely helpful after the inspection. He not only helped us understand the best way to complete the repairs, he recommended companies, products and gave us estimated costs. They are the best!
Sara Mwamlima-Lambert
6 months ago
100% Recommend! My husband did lots of research on inspection companies in the area for a house we put an offer in for, and they were #1 on our list based on the research. However, they absolutely proved why they were number 1 during the actual inspection. They were extremely thorough, even our realtor was impressed. Anthony Gilbar (our inspector) was very friendly and walked me through everything important during the inspection. Additionally, the report was ready within hours and was very user friendly and easy to read. If you want to ensure you’re finding everything during an inspection, Final Analysis Property Inspections is the way to go!
Brian Luke
6 months ago
Absolutely 5 Star's , from start to finish, I would Never purchase a Property without first having Final Analysis inspect it....They're on a another Level!!
Michael Carr
7 months ago
Emily was wonderful! She performed an incredibly thorough and detailed assessment of the home we are under contract with purchasing. Her report was instrumental in ensuring that the house will be turned key upon move in! She also took time to answer all my questions and point out critical issues that I would have definitely missed. If you are buying a home or getting ready to list your home you need Emily for your inspection!
Parker Jackson
8 months ago
We had an absolutely outstanding experience with Anthony and Mike during the inspection of our new build home. From start to finish, they were incredibly thorough, knowledgeable, and professional. They took the time to explain everything in a clear, approachable way and made sure we fully understood not just what they were looking at, but why it mattered.
What really stood out was how much they genuinely cared. They treated the inspection as if it were their own home, catching details we never would have noticed and advocating for us every step of the way. Their attention to detail and commitment to doing things right gave us so much peace of mind during a very important purchase.
Anthony and Mike went above and beyond, and we are so grateful for their expertise, honesty, and patience. If you’re buying a home especially a new build you could not ask for better inspectors. Highly, highly recommend!
What really stood out was how much they genuinely cared. They treated the inspection as if it were their own home, catching details we never would have noticed and advocating for us every step of the way. Their attention to detail and commitment to doing things right gave us so much peace of mind during a very important purchase.
Anthony and Mike went above and beyond, and we are so grateful for their expertise, honesty, and patience. If you’re buying a home especially a new build you could not ask for better inspectors. Highly, highly recommend!
PreS - 4Word Team
8 months ago
Final Analysis did a tremendous job inspecting our Multi-family 8 unit commercial property. The inspection report was extremely thorough and gave us insight on everything we needed to know before we closed on the deal. We also want to give a big shout out to Anthony Gilbar for leading the inspection twice for us. The first time was for our 4 unit building and now for our 8 unit building. Keep up the good work!
With Gratitude,
PreS-4Word Team
With Gratitude,
PreS-4Word Team
Hailey Hudgins
8 months ago
We chose final analysis based on a family recommendation from 10 years ago and I can confidently say that their services have continued to be just as great. Thank you so much to Dan and Todd for your expertise, thorough work, and knowledge to answer all of our many questions. I highly recommend to choose the Final analysis team for your home inspection.
Winter Bee
9 months ago
I had the pleasure of working with Todd from Final Analysis for a home inspection on my condo, and I couldn't be more impressed. Todd arrived early, greeted me warmly, and immediately put me at ease. He took the time to explain the process in detail, so I knew exactly what to expect during the inspection.
Throughout the inspection, Todd was thorough and meticulous, checking every inch of the property. He answered every question my realtor and I had, providing clear explanations for any issues he noticed. His attention to detail was outstanding, and I felt confident in his findings.
Once the inspection was complete, Todd provided us with a comprehensive, detailed report that was easy to understand. He even offered to be available for any questions or concerns that might arise as we continue with the home-buying process, which was greatly appreciated.
A special shout-out also goes to the owner of Final Analysis, who went above and beyond. I had added an additional service to my inspection package, but the owner personally reached out to explain that the service wasn’t necessary for my property. Rather than charging me an extra $300+, he made sure I wasn’t paying for something I didn’t need. This level of honesty and integrity is rare, and I’m truly impressed by the company’s commitment to doing the right thing.
I went out on a limb choosing Final Analysis, and I am extremely happy with the outcome. You will not be disappointed if you choose them for your inspection needs. I would 100% use them again in the future.
Throughout the inspection, Todd was thorough and meticulous, checking every inch of the property. He answered every question my realtor and I had, providing clear explanations for any issues he noticed. His attention to detail was outstanding, and I felt confident in his findings.
Once the inspection was complete, Todd provided us with a comprehensive, detailed report that was easy to understand. He even offered to be available for any questions or concerns that might arise as we continue with the home-buying process, which was greatly appreciated.
A special shout-out also goes to the owner of Final Analysis, who went above and beyond. I had added an additional service to my inspection package, but the owner personally reached out to explain that the service wasn’t necessary for my property. Rather than charging me an extra $300+, he made sure I wasn’t paying for something I didn’t need. This level of honesty and integrity is rare, and I’m truly impressed by the company’s commitment to doing the right thing.
I went out on a limb choosing Final Analysis, and I am extremely happy with the outcome. You will not be disappointed if you choose them for your inspection needs. I would 100% use them again in the future.
Derek Lilly
2 years ago
The entire experience and interaction was professional and very down to earth.Everything was explained at a level that I could understand, which is much appreciated! I would definitely recommend and refer my family and friends to call upon Anthony Gilbar to be the man to perform their home inspection without reservation. Customer service is very hard to find , but outstanding customer service almost never exists, but Anthony provided us with outstanding customer service!
Brandon Jolliffe
2 years ago
Inspection was performed quickly and was very detailed. Emily was easy to work with and flexible, even when we called her late in the evening from Guam. I will likely use final analysis for any future inspections.
Terrell Jackson
2 years ago
Great customer service, good price, very helpful and professional. The follow up was very informational as well. In general highly recommended.
David Chapman
2 years ago
Ms Washington did a great job on the home inspection. She ws extremely thorough and her reporting (both verbal and written) was exceptional.
stacey Lee
2 years ago
We highly recommend Anthony from Final Analysis! He is very professional, knowledgeable, personable and very thorough. He did an excellent job and we will use him and Final Analysis for any future needs.
Donald Seybold
2 years ago
Although I did not like what was found, you need Final Analysis Property Inspection to get your house ready for sale. Emily is an awesome inspector and has helped use discover challenges with the home ahead of the sale. They are thorough and meticulous. A must for all home buyers and sellers.
Erica Reyes
2 years ago
We had a pleasure of meeting Emily and the overall experience was great! Emily was very thorough and she really did an awesome job. The report was very detailed, it comes with videos and pictures which we truly appreciate. She was prompt and went through every issue with us. I recommend Final Analysis to anyone needing home inspection. Emily is awesome! 😊
Scott Carns
2 years ago
Anthony from Final Analysis was an excellent property inspector and provided a detailed, thorough, and comprehensive report. He walked us through the entire process and report results, answering all of our questions. We now feel confident in moving forward on our home sale as we know what issues need resolved. I can't stress enough how important a thorough inspection is for your property, as buyer or seller, Final Analysis is the only company I'd recommend.
Jessica
2 years ago
I spoke to Dave over the phone to set up the inspection for my mom's new condo. He was patient, kind, and informative. Emily was our inspector and she provided a thorough report. My mom was present for the inspection and she said that Emily was helpful, diligent, and nice to talk to. My experience is that the company owners/employees take pride in what they do and don't rush through it to get to the next customer, which we really appreciated. I also felt the prices were reasonable considering that they did an inspection of the property including the fireplace/chimney and they also looked for bugs/pests. I would definitely use this company again.
Rick Burgess (Powder)
2 years ago
I had a wonderful experience with Final Analysis Property Inspections. Anthony inspected a new-home purchase and provided me a thoughtful and comprehensive review of his findings. I was unable to attend the inspection but he called me afterward, explained everything thoroughly, and answered all of my questions. I was impressed by both his professionalism and candor, and feel confident acting on his recommendations. A truly amazing experience. I will use Final Analysis for all my future endeavors. Thank you!
Jacqueline Goodwin
4 years ago
Dan was very thorough with explaining the process from start to finish and leaving me comfortable enough to know he was very experienced.
Then Anthony was the inspector that did the job, and he too was very detailed from taking videos, to descriptive voice notes. Thank you again for such great service. I would definitely recommend you guys!
Then Anthony was the inspector that did the job, and he too was very detailed from taking videos, to descriptive voice notes. Thank you again for such great service. I would definitely recommend you guys!
Lynn Lop
4 years ago
I wasn't quite sure what to expect from this company, however they have met and exceeded my expectations. They were the first ones there and had already started to inspect the property. Anthony and Brit were beyond professional and answered all my questions and concerns. They were super polite as well as respectful of the property and it's owners. I would highly recommend this company. I had an overall inspection done, that included termite and moisture inspection. They were very thorough in their work! I am a very satisfied customer and would recommend them without reservations.
Nathan Boone
6 years ago
Dan & Emily are awesome! Phenomenal service and super professional. Great details in the inspection reporting but still very easy to read and navigate. Could not recommend this company more.
Jon Welters
6 years ago
We used Final Analysis to inspect a potential home to purchase. They were very professional, arrived on time and did exactly what they said. The house had minimal issues which was great but the things that were notable were shared and debriefed appropriately.
Erica Nachman Park
6 years ago
Jason and team did an excellent job! They were thorough and really paid attention to detail. They are not alarmists, but give it to you straight! They explain everything in easy to understand terms and made the process so stress-free! Jason explained everything at the end perfectly and answered all of our questions. By far one of the smoothest pieces of the buying process! Thank you!!
Experience - Education - Support
Advanced Quality Reporting
- Fully comprehensive reports with hi-res, annotated photos, narrated videos and detailed explainations.
- Never any guessing. Web based, delivered same day.
- Easily PDF'd or shared. Built-in repair request builder.
- Home reference book with each report.
- Repair cost estimates available for each report. See genuine report examples
Best Education and Experience
Family and Vet owned local business doing only inspections since 1991. Advanced in-house training systems and continuing Ed. All inspectors at a senior level with over 1000 inspections. Multiple inspectors for large jobs. Full support staff.
Final Analysis is an approved educator for DPOR (Virginia) and the DOD (SkillBridge) to provide apprenticeship training and licensing for home inspectors.
Best Tools and Equipment
- All inspectors are fully equiped with gas and CO detectors, thermal cameras, moisture meters, anemometers, high resolution cameras, endoscopes, UV light
- Sewage video camera, drone aircraft
Deeply Comprehensive Inspections
Not just a casual visual walk through. A more investigative approach of each and every system while learning the general characture and quality of the property as a whole. We do 100% checks on all systems and their components. Not random sampling. We walk all roofs when safe, crawl all crawlspaces, attics and kneewalls. Analyize all framing, foundations and general quality and characture of construction.
Superior Protection and Support
- "No questions asked" satisfaction guarantee
- 90 Day performance guarantee
- Continuing support well into the future for as long as you need it.
