Level 1 & Level 2 Chimney Inspections
Level 1 & Level 2 Chimney Inspections in London, Hertfordshire & Essex
Your chimney is probably the least visible part of your home. It sits behind walls, above ceilings, and out of sight. Its job is to get dangerous combustion gases out of your house, and it does that job quietly until something goes wrong.
Most chimneys have been through decades of renovations without anyone checking what's happening inside the flue. We've found pipework threaded through chimney breasts, electrical cables passed through, and loft conversions that have damaged the stack. You can't find any of that with a brush and rod. Sometimes you need a camera.
SweepSmart is a Guild of Master Sweeps member and Which? Trusted Trader carrying out Level 1 and Level 2 chimney inspections across London, Hertfordshire and Essex. Every inspection follows our code of practice, and every report gives you a clear picture of what's going on inside your flue.
What's the Difference Between a Level 1 and a Level 2?
A Level 1 is a comprehensive check of your chimney's condition. It combines a standard sweep with a CCTV camera inspection and a smoke evacuation test, so we're not just cleaning the flue. We're finding out what's happening inside it.
A Level 2 goes deeper. Where a Level 1 identifies visible issues, a Level 2 tests the structural integrity of the chimney itself. We're checking whether the flue is sound enough to keep using safely. This is typically what's needed when a Level 1 has flagged something requiring further investigation, when there are concerns about the chimney's construction, or when the situation calls for a more rigorous assessment, for example before major works or after a chimney fire.
Not sure which level you need? Get in touch before booking. We'll ask a few questions and guide you to the right inspection. No charge for that conversation. We'll always recommend the inspection that fits your situation, not the most expensive one.
What's Included in a SweepSmart Chimney Sweep?
Every sweep follows the same thorough process, carried out in accordance with the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps' code of practice:
What's Included in a Level 1 Chimney Inspection?
- Full visual inspection of the pot, stack, hearth, ventilation, fireplace or stove fitting, and lintel
- Fireplace area covered with protective dust sheets (we provide these)
- Chimney swept and inspected in accordance with the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps' code of practice
- Smoke and CO alarm check, confirming they're present and correctly positioned
- Smoke Test 2 (Evacuation Test)
- A Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps insurance certificate (if the appliance and flue are safe to use)
- A detailed digital report with photos (if remedial work is required)
What's Included in a Level 2 Chimney Inspection?
A Level 2 includes everything in a Level 1, plus:
- Smoke Test 1 (Leakage Test)
- Pressure test with a Wöhler DP600 testing device (if the flue is lined)
- A Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps sweeping and servicing certificate
- A more detailed diagnostic report with CCTV screenshots
- Allow approximately 120 minutes per flue
You'll receive a report with CCTV screenshots detailing everything we've found. If any remedial work is needed, the report gives you everything you need to get quotes.
When Would You Need a Level 1 Inspection?
You've just moved in and want to confirm the chimney is safe. You're having the chimney lined and it needs sweeping and checking first. The chimney has started smoking back into the room or isn't drawing properly. You haven't used the fireplace in a long time and want to check before lighting it again. There's a blockage that sweeping can't shift.
Any faults noted during the inspection are recorded and sent to you in a full report. You can use this to get quotes for any remedial work needed.
When Would You Need a Level 2 Inspection?
A Level 1 has flagged something that needs deeper investigation. There are concerns about the chimney's construction or structural integrity. You've had a chimney fire and need to confirm the flue is safe. You're carrying out major building work and need a thorough assessment beforehand. A pressure test is required before the chimney can be approved for use.
What Happens if the Chimney Fails the Leakage Test?
If the flue is leaking, it needs to be lined. There are different methods available, and the best option depends on the appliance you're using and how the original flue was constructed. We'll review the camera footage with you and talk through the most suitable approach.
A leakage test requires safe access to the chimney terminal and access to each floor, including loft spaces, where the flue passes. Read more about smoke tests here.
Ready to book or got a question first? Get in touch. We've completed over 4,000 chimney jobs this year and we'll get you sorted quickly.
FAQs
What's the difference between a chimney sweep and a Level 1 Inspection?
A sweep is a cleaning service. A Level 1 Inspection combines a sweep with a CCTV camera survey and a smoke evacuation test. You get everything a sweep includes, plus we put a camera inside the flue to check the structure, identify any damage or obstructions, and produce a detailed report with photos.
How long does a Level 1 Inspection take?
It depends on the property and the chimney, but typically allow around 60–75 minutes per flue.
Do I get a report after the inspection?
Yes. You'll receive a detailed 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.
Does a home buyer survey check the chimney?
No. Home buyer reports do not inspect the fireplace or inside of a chimney. Even if the surveyor mentions the chimney exists, they haven't checked whether it's safe to use. That's why we recommend a chimney inspection when you move into a property with a fireplace.
When would a Level 1 not be enough?
If the Level 1 flags something that needs deeper investigation — particularly concerns about the structural integrity of the flue — we may recommend upgrading to a Level 2 Inspection, which includes leakage and pressure testing.
What does a Level 2 Inspection include that a Level 1 doesn't?
Everything in a Level 1, plus a leakage test (Smoke Test 1), a pressure test using a Wöhler DP600 device, and a more detailed diagnostic assessment of the chimney's structural integrity. It's the full picture.
How long does a Level 2 Inspection take?
Approximately 120 minutes per flue. It's a thorough process — we're testing the chimney's structural soundness, not just checking its condition.
What is a chimney pressure test?
Air is pumped into the flue using a Wöhler DP600 testing device, which measures exactly how much air — if any — is leaking out. It produces a reading of the allowable leakage rate versus the actual leakage rate, giving you a definitive pass or fail. No guesswork.
What happens if my chimney fails the pressure test?
The chimney needs lining before it can be used safely. There are different lining methods available — the best option depends on your appliance and the construction of the original flue. We'll review the camera footage with you and talk through the most suitable approach.
Is a Level 2 Inspection worth the extra cost?
If there's any question about the structural integrity of your chimney — cracks, leaks, failed tests, or post-chimney-fire checks — yes. A Level 1 tells you the condition. A Level 2 tells you whether the chimney is structurally safe to keep using. It's the difference between a check-up and a full diagnostic.
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