Chimney Inspection Services in Des Moines, IA

Professional Chimney Inspections to Keep Your Fireplace Safe

If you use a fireplace or wood stove, regular chimney inspections are essential for safety. Over time, chimneys can develop creosote buildup, cracked flue liners, damaged masonry, or hidden blockages that may lead to smoke problems or even chimney fires.

At Freedom Chimney & Masonry, we provide thorough chimney inspections in Des Moines and surrounding communities to help homeowners identify problems early and keep their fireplace system operating safely and efficiently.

Whether you’re preparing for the heating season, buying a home, or troubleshooting a fireplace issue, a professional chimney inspection gives you peace of mind.

When Should You Schedule a Chimney Inspection?

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that chimneys be inspected at least once per year.

You should consider scheduling an inspection if:

  • You haven't had your chimney inspected in over a year

  • You recently purchased a home with a fireplace

  • Your fireplace smells or produces unusual odors

  • Smoke enters the home when using the fireplace

  • You see loose bricks or damaged mortar on the chimney

  • Water is leaking into the chimney or fireplace

  • Animals may have entered the chimney

Even if your fireplace appears to work normally, hidden issues inside the flue or chimney structure can develop over time.

Our Chimney Inspection Process

When we inspect your chimney system, we examine all accessible components of the fireplace and venting system to identify safety issues or damage.

A typical chimney inspection may include checking:

  • Flue liner condition

  • Creosote buildup levels

  • Chimney cap and crown condition

  • Masonry and mortar joints

  • Chimney flashing and water entry points

  • Damper operation

  • Smoke chamber condition

  • Blockages such as nests or debris

Our goal is to give homeowners a clear understanding of the chimney’s condition and identify any repairs that may be needed.

Types of Chimney Inspections

Level 1 Chimney Inspection

A Level 1 inspection is the most common type and is recommended for chimneys that are regularly maintained and have not undergone major changes.

This inspection focuses on the readily accessible portions of the chimney and fireplace system.

Level 2 Chimney Inspection (Camera Inspection)

A Level 2 inspection is recommended when:

  • Buying or selling a home

  • After a chimney fire or lightning strike

  • After major structural changes

  • When problems are suspected but not visible

This inspection includes a specialized chimney camera that allows us to inspect the interior of the flue for hidden damage.

Level 3 Inspection (Most Invasive)

A Level 3 chimney inspection may be recommended if:

  • A chimney fire has occurred

  • Severe structural damage is suspected

  • Major flue liner failure is discovered

  • Significant water damage has compromised the chimney

  • A Level 2 inspection reveals hidden hazards

  •  Parts of the chimney are inaccessible but suspected to be unsafe

This inspection may require the removal or opening of portions of the chimney structure or building materials to fully evaluate the chimney system and identify potential safety risks.

Real Estate Chimney Inspections

Fireplaces are a major feature in many homes, but they are often overlooked during general home inspections.

We provide real estate chimney inspections for home buyers, sellers, and real estate agents to verify the safety and condition of the chimney system before closing.

A professional chimney inspection can identify:

  • Unsafe flue conditions

  • Hidden chimney damage

  • Needed repairs before a home sale

  • Safety concerns that could affect insurance or inspections

Signs Your Chimney May Have a Problem

Some chimney issues are obvious, while others develop slowly over time. You may need an inspection if you notice:

  • Strong fireplace odors in the home

  • Smoke backing into the room

  • White staining (efflorescence) on brick

  • Cracked or missing mortar joints

  • Water inside the firebox

  • Rusted fireplace components

Catching these issues early can often prevent much larger repairs later.

Serving Des Moines and Surrounding Communities

Freedom Chimney & Masonry proudly provides chimney inspection services throughout the Des Moines metro area, including:

Altoona
Ankeny
Bondurant
Clive
Grimes
Johnston
Norwalk
Pleasant Hill
Polk City
Urbandale
Waukee
West Des Moines

If you're unsure about the condition of your chimney, a professional inspection is the best place to start.

Schedule a Chimney Inspection

If it has been a while since your last inspection, now is the perfect time to have your chimney checked.

Freedom Chimney & Masonry provides professional chimney inspections to help homeowners keep their fireplaces safe and operating properly.

Call 515-822-6886 or request an appointment today to schedule service.