Do You Need a Chimney Inspection After Buying a Home?

Buying a home is exciting but also a little overwhelming. Between securing financing, scheduling inspections, and finally moving in, there’s a long list of things to check off before you can truly relax.

But here’s something many new homeowners forget about: the chimney.

If your new home has a fireplace, you might assume it’s good to go. After all, if the house passed inspection, the chimney must be fine, too, right?

Not necessarily.

A general home inspection is not the same as a chimney inspection, and hidden chimney issues can lead to fire hazards, carbon monoxide leaks, and costly repairs if left unchecked.

So, do you really need a chimney inspection after buying a home? The answer is a resounding yes — and here’s why.

1. Your Home Inspection Probably Didn’t Include the Chimney

Many homeowners assume that a standard home inspection covers everything, but that’s rarely the case when it comes to chimneys.

A home inspector might:

Look at the chimney from the outside to check for obvious damage.
Shine a flashlight inside to see if anything looks out of place.
Test the damper to make sure it opens and closes.

But what they won’t do is inspect the flue liner, chimney cap, internal structure, or creosote buildup, all of which can pose serious safety risks if neglected.

Also Read: History of Chimney Sweeping in Boston: From Past to Present

2. Hidden Structural Damage Leads to Expensive Repairs Later

Even if the chimney looks fine on the outside, it could have internal damage that’s impossible to see without a proper inspection.

Over time, chimneys can develop:

Cracked or deteriorating bricks and mortar
A damaged flue liner that no longer protects against heat and smoke
Leaks that cause water damage in your home

Ignoring these issues will only make repairs more expensive later. If caught early, a minor fix could cost a few hundred dollars.

3. Creosote Buildup Can Be a Major Fire Hazard

If the previous homeowners used the fireplace but never cleaned the chimney, there could be thick layers of creosote buildup inside.

Creosote is a highly flammable substance that forms when wood burns, and if enough of it collects inside the chimney, it can ignite and cause a dangerous chimney fire.

A professional chimney inspection and chimney cleaning remove creosote, ensuring your fireplace is safe to use.

4. Carbon Monoxide Leaks

A blocked or damaged chimney can also put your entire household at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can seep into your home if your chimney isn’t properly venting smoke and gases. Even if you don’t use the fireplace, a clogged or damaged chimney can affect your furnace, water heater, or other gas appliances that rely on proper ventilation.

A chimney inspection ensures that your venting system is clear and functioning properly, keeping your home and family safe.

5. Chimney Leaks Can Lead to Costly Water Damage

Chimneys are exposed to rain, snow, and extreme temperatures year-round, and if they aren’t properly maintained, they can develop leaks.

Water damage can spread to your attic, walls, and insulation, leading to mold growth and costly home repairs.

A chimney inspection can catch small leaks before they turn into expensive problems.

Schedule Your Chimney Inspection with Delta Clean Air!

Don’t take risks when it comes to your home’s safety and air quality. A professional chimney inspection ensures your fireplace is clean, structurally sound, and free of hazards.

At Delta Clean Air, we provide: