Detailed Chimney Inspections for Safety and Compliance
A chimney may look fine from the outside, but hidden issues inside the flue can put your home and family at risk. With 30 years of chimney and fireplace experience, Maximum Maintenance provides homeowners in Plainview, NY, with thorough, safety‑focused chimney inspections designed to detect problems early and prevent costly damage. For more than 23 years, we’ve been the trusted name in chimney diagnostics, offering honest assessments and expert guidance to keep your home protected year‑round.
Whether you use a fireplace, wood stove, or oil/gas heating system, regular inspections are essential for preventing fires, carbon monoxide leaks, and structural deterioration. Our inspections follow industry standards and provide clear answers you can rely on.
Comprehensive Chimney Inspection Services
Chimney systems are complex, and even small issues can lead to major hazards if left unaddressed. Our inspections evaluate every accessible part of your chimney to ensure it is safe, structurally sound, and functioning properly.
We offer:
Level 1 chimney inspections
Level 2 chimney inspections
Level 3 chimney inspections
Fireplace and wood stove inspections
Oil and gas heating system venting inspections
Safety and performance evaluations
Our goal is simple: identify problems early, explain them clearly, and help you make informed decisions about your chimney’s care.
Level 1 Chimney Inspections
A Level 1 inspection is the standard annual inspection recommended for homes with no recent changes to the chimney or heating system.
This inspection includes:
- Visual examination of accessible chimney components
- Checking for soot, creosote, and debris buildup
- Inspecting the firebox, damper, and smoke chamber
- Evaluating the flue for visible damage
- Checking for blockages or airflow issues
- Ensuring proper draft and ventilation
Level 1 inspections are essential for maintaining safety and catching early signs of wear.
Level 2 Chimney Inspections
A Level 2 inspection is required when:
You’re buying or selling a home.
You’ve changed your heating appliance.
You’ve switched fuel types
The chimney has experienced damage (weather, fire, impact).
You’ve had a chimney fire
You haven’t had an inspection in several years.
This inspection includes everything in Level 1 plus:
Video camera inspection of the flue
Examination of internal surfaces not visible from the exterior
Inspection of attic, crawl spaces, and accessible structural areas
Level 2 inspections provide a detailed look inside the chimney, revealing cracks, liner damage, blockages, and hidden hazards.
Level 3 Chimney Inspections
A Level 3 inspection is the most in-depth evaluation and is only recommended when serious structural issues are suspected.
This inspection may include:
Removal of components (such as crown, interior walls, or masonry)
Examination of concealed areas
Investigation of severe damage or safety concerns
Level 3 inspections are rare but essential when major problems threaten the safety of your home.
Inspections for Fireplaces, Wood Stoves, and Heating Systems
Every heating system requires proper venting to operate safely. We inspect chimneys connected to:
Fireplaces
Wood stoves
Oil furnaces
Gas furnaces
Boilers
Water heaters
Our inspection ensures:
Proper ventilation
No blockages or obstructions
Safe operation of heating appliances
No carbon monoxide risks
Structural integrity of the flue
Whether you use your system daily or seasonally, inspections are critical for safety.
Common Issues Found During Inspections
Our inspections often uncover problems homeowners didn’t know existed, including:
- Cracked or deteriorated chimney liners
- Creosote buildup
- Blockages from nests or debris
- Moisture damage
- Masonry cracks
- Damaged chimney caps
- Poor draft or ventilation
- Structural instability
Catching these issues early prevents expensive repairs and protects your home.
Why Homeowners Trust Maximum Maintenance
30 years of chimney and fireplace experience
23 years serving Plainview, NY
Certified, knowledgeable chimney inspectors
Honest evaluations and clear explanations
Advanced video inspection technology
Safety focused, detail oriented service
Local, reliable, and committed to quality
We don’t just inspect chimneys—we protect homes.
Schedule Your Chimney Inspection Today
Don’t wait for a small issue to become a major hazard. Maximum Maintenance provides thorough chimney inspections to keep your home safe, efficient, and compliant.
Call (516) 938-0566 today to schedule your chimney inspection.