At London Chimney Services, we know how important a well-maintained chimney is for home safety and performance. Our chimney inspections use cutting-edge tools and are performed by CSIA-certified technicians who meet the highest industry standards. Whether your home has a wood-burning or oil-burning fireplace, we provide detailed inspections for all chimneys, including those that serve second-story homes and beyond. Each chimney inspection is done thoroughly to ensure your system remains in excellent shape.
What Makes Chimney Inspections So Important
Homeowners are advised by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to have their chimneys inspected yearly. These chimney inspections help prevent fire hazards, ensure proper fireplace venting, and improve system safety. They’re also a smart way to find early signs of damage so repairs can be made before any serious safety or fire issues occur.
With more than 45 years of experience working in the Minneapolis area, we’ve built our reputation on a strong commitment to chimney safety. Our inspection process is designed to uncover issues that could affect your fireplace’s performance and ensure everything operates safely, efficiently, and without risk.
Our Step-by-Step 21-Point Chimney Inspection
At London Chimney Services, serving Mounds View, MN, we believe in a detailed approach. Our 21-point safety inspection goes beyond a standard check and includes a full review of your chimney’s components. Our inspection checklist covers:
- A close look at the flue for creosote buildup, gaps, or cracks
- Inspection of the crown and cap for any form of damage
- Masonry evaluation to confirm it’s structurally sound
- Testing ventilation and draft pathways for effectiveness
- Identifying water-related damage or leak concerns
If anything needs attention, our trained technicians will explain the needed chimney repairs clearly, giving you peace of mind that your fireplace is safe to use.
A Closer Look at Chimney Inspection Levels I, II, and III
Not all chimneys require the same type of inspection. Depending on previous maintenance, chimney use, and whether any problems have occurred recently, we provide three inspection levels to match your specific needs:
- Level I Inspection: This is the most common inspection used for annual maintenance. Our CSIA-certified technicians visually inspect the chimney’s interior and exterior to confirm it is clear of creosote buildup, damage, or obstructions. This type of inspection is suited for chimneys that haven’t had any changes or issues in the last year.
- Level II Inspection: A Level II inspection is the right choice when a closer look is needed, especially after a chimney fire, recent structural changes, or when purchasing a property. We use a video camera to inspect the full length of the flue liner. Our CSIA-certified technicians analyze the video to detect cracks, creosote buildup, or other interior chimney problems. This inspection offers a deeper safety review than Level I and is essential in spotting conditions that may lead to chimney fires or costly damage.
- Level III Inspection: When signs of hidden damage appear during earlier inspection levels, a Level III inspection is performed to access concealed chimney areas. This inspection often requires opening up sections of the structure to evaluate the interior thoroughly. Recommended after serious events such as chimney fires or lightning strikes, our technicians handle the work carefully to ensure safety issues are resolved and proper repairs are completed.
Issues Typically Detected During Chimney Inspections
Regular chimney inspections often uncover problems that, if left untreated, may result in costly or dangerous outcomes. Among the most common issues are:
- Creosote Buildup: When wood is burned, creosote sticks to the walls of the chimney and accumulates over time. It’s a serious fire hazard if not removed through routine chimney cleaning.
- Liner Damage or Cracking: A damaged chimney liner can allow smoke and harmful gases to escape into your living space. If any issues are detected, we can perform chimney relining to ensure your fireplace system remains safe and functional.
- Chimney Leak Detection: Water intrusion is a common issue that damages brickwork and interior structures over time. Our team checks for moisture problems and recommends protective fixes such as chimney caps or flashing and crown repair.
- Vent Blockage Risks: Whether it’s creosote buildup, animal nests, or other obstructions, anything blocking your chimney can create smoke backup or fire hazards. We’ll remove the problem and suggest chimney caps to prevent it from returning.
Gas Fireplace Safety Inspections
Although gas fireplaces don’t generate creosote, they still require regular checks to stay safe. We inspect the liner and venting systems to confirm they’re fully sealed and free of blockages. Certified technicians ensure your gas fireplace is operating without safety risks.
Why Minneapolis Residents Choose London Chimney Services for Chimney Inspections
At London Chimney Services, serving Mounds View, MN, we’re known for dependable chimney inspections backed by a commitment to your safety and satisfaction. Here’s what you can expect from our team:
- Highly Skilled and Certified Technicians: Each technician holds CSIA certification and is trained in the latest inspection practices and tools.
- Inspection Reports That Make Sense: We give you a report that includes photos and straightforward guidance, so you’re fully informed about your chimney’s condition.
- Minnesota-Specific Experience: Our 45+ years of local service means we understand the impact of Minnesota’s seasonal extremes on chimney systems.
- Putting Your Safety First: Your safety is always our top priority. We take the time to explain every part of your inspection and what steps to take next.
Other Chimney Services We Offer:
Chimney Caps & Screens
Fireplace Inserts
Chimney Masonry
Chimney Tuckpointing
Chimney Relining
Chimney Rain Caps
Chimney Sweep & Cleaning
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How frequently should I have my chimney looked at?
A: Most chimney professionals, including CSIA, recommend having a chimney inspection annually. Regular inspections help catch potential fire hazards like creosote buildup and liner issues before they become dangerous.
Q: What sets a chimney inspection apart from a cleaning?
A: Chimney inspections are meant to check the safety and structure of the fireplace and chimney system. Cleaning is performed to eliminate soot, debris, and creosote. If necessary, cleaning will be suggested after your inspection is completed.
Q: What happens if the inspection finds something wrong?
A: Our team will prepare a detailed report explaining any damage or concerns. We’ll walk you through each item, discuss safety priorities, and assist in scheduling repair services when needed.
Q: How much time does the chimney inspection process take?
A: A Level I inspection typically takes under an hour. Advanced inspections, which include video scanning or examining hidden areas, can take longer depending on the complexity of the chimney.
Q: Can I perform a chimney inspection myself?
A: While some areas of your chimney may be visible, only a certified technician can provide a complete chimney inspection. We use special tools to check for creosote, damage, and fire risks that you might miss.
Q: What dangers does creosote present in chimneys?
A: Creosote, a sticky residue created during wood combustion, gathers inside the chimney’s flue. If not cleaned out regularly, it becomes a serious fire hazard. Our inspections check for this type of buildup and may include chimney cleaning if creosote levels pose a risk.
Q: Are routine inspections required for gas fireplaces?
A: Yes. Gas fireplaces don’t create creosote but can still develop dangerous issues. A clogged vent or cracked liner might allow carbon monoxide into the home. We inspect every component to ensure the fireplace functions safely and efficiently.
Q: What should I look out for that means my chimney needs inspection?
A: Warning signs include excessive indoor smoke, chimney odors, moisture around the structure, or visible damage. You should also schedule an inspection if you’ve made fireplace modifications, moved into a new home, or if it’s been over a year since your last one.
Q: What happens during a camera inspection of the flue?
A: A camera inspection provides an inside view of your flue using special equipment. This process helps identify problems such as liner cracks, blockages, or creosote buildup. It’s a key step after a chimney fire or structural change, and for new home inspections.
Q: Is it safe to light a fire with a cracked chimney liner?
A: No, using a fireplace with a cracked liner is unsafe. Heat and smoke can leak into walls, increasing fire or carbon monoxide risks. Our technicians can evaluate the condition and suggest relining to ensure your chimney is safe and secure.
Make Your Chimney Inspection a Priority
Stay ahead of the winter rush by scheduling your annual chimney inspection now. Whether your fireplace runs on gas or wood, regular inspections protect your home’s safety and performance.
Reach out to London Chimney Services at 612-377-1500 or book an appointment online.
Areas We Offer Our Chimney Inspections:
Hennepin County
Bloomington | Brooklyn Center | Brooklyn Park | Eden Prairie | Edina | Excelsior | Golden Valley | Maple Grove | Minneapolis | Minnetonka | Minnetrista | Mound | Orono | Plymouth | Richfield | St Louis Park | Wayzata
Carver County
Scott County
Prior Lake | Savage | Shakopee
Dakota County
Apple Valley | Burnsville | Inver Grove Heights | Lakeville | South St Paul
Washington County
Cottage Grove | Lake Elmo | Mahtomedi | Oakdale | Woodbury
Ramsey County
Highland Park | Little Canada | Maplewood | Mounds View | North St Paul | Roseville
Shoreview | St Paul | Vadnais Heights| White Bear Lake
Anoka County
Blaine | Fridley | Lino Lakes
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About Mounds View, MN
Tucked into the northern edge of Ramsey County, Mounds View blends quiet suburbia with echoes of ancient history. Named for the prehistoric Native American burial mounds once found in the region, the area offers a landscape shaped by glaciers and time—its terrain gently undulates with wooded parks, serene lakes, and winding trails that speak to Minnesota’s untamed past. This is a city where the natural world is never far away, even as modern life hums gently in the background.
Community spirit flourishes in Mounds View, where neighbors greet each other by name and the rhythm of daily life moves at a thoughtful pace. Long Lake Regional Park offers a verdant escape, where mornings begin with sunlit walks and evenings close with quiet canoe rides across still waters. Local events like Festival in the Park bring the community together with music, food, and fireworks, casting a glow that lingers well after summer fades. Here, authenticity isn’t curated—it’s lived, felt in the ease of conversation at a corner café or the shared joy of a lakefront sunset. Mounds View may be modest in size, but it resonates with a spirit that is grounded, welcoming, and deeply Minnesotan.
London Chimney Services
Mounds View, MN
Mounds View, MN Zip Code
55112
Get Your Chimney Inspected Today
Reach out to London Chimney Services at 612-377-1500 or click here to schedule your inspection online.