Protect your home. Protect your family.
Chimney Inspection Services in the Twin Cities
Your chimney is an important part of your home’s ventilation system, helping carry smoke and combustion gases away from fireplaces, furnaces, and stoves. Guardian Chimney Solutions provides professional Level I, Level II, and Level III inspections throughout Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the Twin Cities to evaluate the condition of your chimney, flue, fireplace, and related venting components.
Note: Guardian Chimney Solutions services wood-burning fireplaces and chimneys only. We do not repair gas fireplaces, gas logs, or gas appliance systems.
Request an Inspection
Complete the short form and the Guardian team will follow up within one business day.
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Nearly 20 Years of Experience
CSIA Certified #9448
BBB A+ Accredited
Family-Owned Minnesota Business
When Should You Schedule a Chimney Inspection?
NFPA 211 calls for chimneys, fireplaces, and vents to be inspected at least annually for soundness, deposits, proper clearances, and other conditions that could affect safe operation. An inspection is especially important:
Annual Inspection
Yearly inspections help identify issues early and keep your chimney system safe and efficient.
Buying or Selling a Home
A professional inspection provides peace of mind and may be required during real estate transactions.
Appliance or Fuel Changes
Changes to appliances or fuels can affect venting performance and may require an inspection.
After a Malfunction or Damaging Event
Damage, fires, or other events can impact your chimney and should be evaluated promptly.
Smoke, Draft, or Odor Concerns
Persistent smoke, poor draft, or odors are signs something may not be working as it should.
Our Three Levels of Chimney Inspection
Level l
Routine Inspection
- Chimney, fireplace, and venting system are readily accessible
- No changes to the system are planned
- System will continue to be used as it has been
Accessible areas are evaluated for:
- Structural soundness
- Obstructions
- Combustible deposits, including creosote
Level ll
Detailed Inspection
Recommended when:
- A new heating appliance is installed
- The fuel type changes
- A property is sold or transferred
- A malfunction occurs
- An outside event may have damaged the system
Includes:
- Everything covered during a Level I inspection
- Accessible portions of attics, crawl spaces, and basements
- Video scanning when recommended
- Smoke, pressure, or other performance testing when recommended
Level lll
Investigation of Concealed Areas
Recommended when:
- Level I or Level II findings indicate a possible hidden hazard
- The suspected issue cannot be fully evaluated through accessible areas
May include:
- Necessary ccess to concealed portions of the building or chimney
- Evaluation of the chimney’s construction and condition
- Investigation of hidden damage
- Determination of the problem’s extent
What Guardian Evaluates:
- Structural soundness of accessible chimney and fireplace components
- Chimney flue and liner condition
- Obstructions, animal nesting material, and combustible deposits
- Firebox, smoke chamber, smoke shelf, and damper
- Chimney crown, cap, flashing, and exterior masonry
- Accessible venting connections for fireplaces, furnaces, or stoves
- Proper clearances in areas included within the selected inspection level
- Visible moisture intrusion, deterioration, or evidence of a previous event
Find Problems Before They Interrupt Your Comfort
Cracks, deterioration, soot, creosote, and hidden obstructions can affect the way a chimney vents and may develop even when the system is not used often. Guardian’s certified professionals evaluate the system according to the appropriate inspection level, explain their findings clearly, and recommend cleaning, maintenance, or repairs when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should chimneys, fireplaces, and vents be inspected?
NFPA 211 calls for an inspection at least once a year to evaluate soundness, deposits, clearances, and other conditions that affect safe operation. Additional inspections may be appropriate after system changes, malfunctions, or damaging events.
What is the difference between Level I, Level II, and Level III inspections?
Level I evaluates readily accessible areas during continued use. Level II expands the review after appliance or fuel changes, property transfers, malfunctions, or possible damage. Level III is used when a suspected hazard requires access to concealed areas.
Is a Level II inspection appropriate when buying or selling a home?
Yes. A Level II inspection is generally appropriate when a property is sold or transferred because it provides a more detailed evaluation than a routine Level I inspection.
Do I need an inspection if I rarely use the chimney?
Yes. Animals can build nests, debris can obstruct the flue, and moisture or age-related deterioration can develop even with limited use.
Will Guardian explain what the inspection finds?
Yes. The technician will review visible conditions and explain whether cleaning, maintenance, further evaluation, or repairs are recommended.
What's your coverage area?
Guardian serves Minneapolis, St. Paul, and communities throughout the Twin Cities metro.
“We were in a time crunch for the chimney work because we needed it done before the new roof got replaced! Highly recommend these guys! Communication was excellent and price for what we needed done was absolutely fair! Would recommend 10/10!” — Nicholas H.
“My chimney was in really bad shape. I got several estimates and chose Guardian Chimney. Joe and his crew rebuilt the chimney from the roof up instead of just doing a repair and did an EXCELLENT job. I have since recommended Guardian Chimney to several friends and they have all been happy with the quality of work.” — Dana P.
“I called and Joe was in the area at another customer and offered to stop over same day. He was here within the hour to give an estimate. It was significantly less than I thought and he was very straight forward with what I did and didn’t need. He also offered to stay and take care of it, which he did, and it looks great! Can’t recommend this company enough for any chimney related work!” — Kimberly L.
Know the Condition of Your Chimney and Venting System
Fill out the form to schedule a professional inspection to identify obstructions, deposits, deterioration, and other concerns before they become larger problems.
CSIA-Certified Professionalss
Trusted by Local Families
Upfront Pricing, No Surprises
Serving the Twin Cities & Beyond
Note: Guardian Chimney Solutions services wood-burning fireplaces and chimneys only. We do not repair gas fireplaces, gas logs, or gas appliance systems.
