Chimney Inspections
London | Essex | Hertfordshire
A chimney sweep and a chimney inspection are not the same thing. A sweep is a cleaning service for chimneys you're already using with no issues. An inspection is an investigation. We put a camera inside the flue, check the structure, run smoke tests, and find out what's actually going on in there. If you're not sure which one you need, an inspection is almost always the right starting point.
SweepSmart carries out hundreds of chimney inspections every year across London, Hertfordshire and Essex. As members of the Guild of Master Sweeps and a Which? Trusted Trader, we follow a code of practice on every job. Every inspection includes a full CCTV survey, a detailed digital report with photos, and clear advice on what (if anything) needs doing. No jargon. No pressure. Just a straight answer and a report you can act on.
Which Inspection Do You Need?
Not every chimney needs the same level of investigation. Here's a guide to help you work out which service fits your situation
Level 1 & Level 2 Inspections
Your chimney is in use but you want it properly checked, or there are concerns about the structural integrity of the flue.
Party Wall Inspection
Building work near a shared wall? The chimney needs checking before and after as part of your party wall agreement.
Pre-Stove & Pre-Gas Fire Installation Inspections
Getting a stove or gas fire fitted? The chimney needs sweeping, inspecting, and checking before anything goes in.
New Homeowner Inspection
Just moved in? Home buyer surveys don't check chimneys. We'll inspect it, report on it, and show you how to use it.
Which Inspection Do You Need?
Not every chimney needs the same level of investigation. Here's a guide to help you work out which service fits your situation
Level 1 & Level 2 Inspections
Your chimney is in use but you want it properly checked, or there are concerns about the structural integrity of the flue.
Party Wall Inspection
Building work near a shared wall? The chimney needs checking before and after as part of your party wall agreement.
Pre-Stove & Pre-Gas Fire Installation Inspections
Getting a stove or gas fire fitted? The chimney needs sweeping, inspecting, and checking before anything goes in.
New Homeowner Inspection
Just moved in? Home buyer surveys don't check chimneys. We'll inspect it, report on it, and show you how to use it.
Which Inspection Do You Need?
Routine Inspections
Level 1 & Level 2 Inspections
Your chimney is in use but you want it properly checked, or there are concerns about the structural integrity of the flue.
Chimney Smoke tests
You're worried about smoke leaking into rooms, fumes drifting between properties, or want proof the flue is sealed and drawing properly.
Bird nest & pest removal
Something's blocking your flue, you can hear movement up there, or your fire isn't drawing the way it used to.
Specialist Surveys
CCTV Chimney surveys
You want to see exactly what's going on inside the flue, with footage and photos to back up the findings.
Drone Chimney Inspection
The stack is too tall or the roof too tricky to reach safely, and you need a clear look at the chimney from the outside.
Pre-installation checks
Party Wall Inspection
Building work near a shared wall? The chimney needs checking before and after as part of your party wall agreement.
New homeowner chimney inspection
You've just moved in and want to know what you've actually inherited before you light the fire.
Pre-stove & pre-gas fire inspection
You're planning to install a stove or gas fire and need the flue checked, measured and signed off before the fitter arrives.
Whatever your chimney needs, we handle it properly.
What Happens After the Inspection?
Every inspection comes with a detailed digital report including CCTV screenshots, findings, and recommendations. If remedial work is needed, the report gives you everything you need to get quotes, whether that's from us or someone else.
We complete over 4,000 chimney jobs every year and hold over 1,000 five-star reviews. You're in safe hands.
Not sure which inspection you need? Get in touch and we'll help you work it out. No charge for the conversation.
FAQs
What's the difference between a sweep and an inspection?
A sweep is a cleaning service for chimneys in regular use. An inspection is an investigation — we put a camera inside the flue, run smoke tests, and produce a detailed report on the chimney's condition. If you don't know whether your chimney is safe, an inspection tells you.
Which inspection level do I need?
Level 1 is a comprehensive check — sweep, camera, and smoke evacuation test. Level 2 goes deeper with leakage and pressure testing for structural concerns. Party Wall is for building work on shared walls. Pre-Stove and Pre-Gas are for new installations. New Homeowner is for people who've just moved in. If you're unsure, give us a call and we'll guide you.
How much does a chimney inspection cost?
It depends on the level and the number of flues. Use our pricing calculator for a ballpark based on your setup, or get in touch for a specific quote.
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We cover most of London, Hertfordshire and Essex. The first part of your postcode is enough.
