A careful chimney sweep inspects the flue and firebox, removes combustible creosote to the right level, documents what they find with clear photos or video, and tells you when a repair is outside cleaning scope. Use these questions to separate certified sweeps who follow NFPA 211-style inspection levels from “brush and dash” crews that leave soot in the attic or sell every homeowner a new liner.
Why it matters: Chimney work mixes heights, combustion safety, and building codes. Ask for company and technician credentials you can verify (CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep, NFI certifications, or strong local licensing), and whether the certified tech leads the job or only the salesperson. A name on a truck without a named tech on site is a soft answer.
Why it matters: Industry practice (NFPA 211) tiers inspections: Level 1 is a basic readily accessible check often paired with a sweep; Level 2 adds accessible areas and is common after a home sale, weather event, or fuel change; Level 3 may involve destructive access when a serious hazard is suspected. Ask which level they recommend and why — and get it in writing before they upsell mid-job.
Why it matters: A brush alone cannot show cracked tiles, gaps in the liner, or heavy glaze creosote above the smoke chamber. Ask whether video or photos are standard for your appointment, whether you get a copy, and how they explain findings in plain language. “Trust us, it looked fine” without visuals is how expensive surprises appear next season.
Why it matters: Wood, gas, pellets, and oil leave different deposits and need different tools and intervals. Tell them what you burn and how often; ask how they clean for that fuel and whether they check the connector pipe, damper, and chimney cap. A one-size “fireplace special” that ignores a wood-stove insert or gas log set is a cut corner.
Why it matters: Creosote and ash migrate into living spaces when containment is sloppy. Ask about drop cloths, negative air or vacuum systems rated for fine soot, whether they open the chase or attic, and who cleans up afterward. If they shrug at mess or say “a little dust is normal,” picture your HVAC return filters a week later.
Why it matters: Low ball “chimney cleaning” ads often exclude camera inspection, smoke tests, or any masonry work. Get a written scope: which flues, inspection level, creosote removal standard, chimney cap check, and whether animal nests or damper repair are extra. Agree that non-emergency extras need your OK with an updated quote before work expands.
Why it matters: Requirements vary by state and city — contractor licenses, specialty registrations, or business licenses may apply. Ask for general liability and workers’ comp certificates. Uninsured crews on a steep roof or with open-flame smoke tests are your problem if someone falls or a spark starts a roof fire.
Why it matters: Sweeping is not the same as installing a stainless liner, rebuilding a crown, or reflashing a chimney. Ask who performs repairs, whether they self-perform or refer, and how they prioritize safety shutdowns vs optional upgrades. Companies that turn every visit into an urgent full rebuild make it hard to get a second opinion.
Why it matters: Many wood systems need at least annual inspection; heavy use or wet wood can need more. Ask them to describe creosote stage (flaky, sticky, or glazed) and whether chemical treatment or mechanical removal is appropriate. Vague “come back every fall” without findings doesn’t help you budget or burn safer wood.
Why it matters: Water entry and animals often start above the flue. A thorough visit notes missing or rusted caps, damaged spark screens, cracked crowns, and obvious flashing gaps — even if repair is a separate trade. If they never leave the living room and only brush from below, they can miss the problems that drive the next leak.
Why it matters: You want a written or emailed summary: inspection level, photos, creosote condition, defects, and clear “safe to use / not safe to use” guidance. Ask what conditions trigger an immediate stop-burn recommendation (blocked flue, cracked liner, heavy glaze, CO risk). Walking away with only a verbal “you’re good” leaves you exposed if something fails later.