How Flue & Hearth Notes™ Chimney Inspection Reports Help You, as the Homeowner

We understand that you enjoy your fireplace and rely on your chimney to function correctly and provide you with hot water, heat, and a working fireplace. Our goal is to provide an inspection process to your chimney sweep to inspect your chimney and, if needed, bring it back to an operational-ready condition. Your sweep can educate you on possible problem issues so that you can make informed decisions.

I love my fireplace!
As a homeowner, you make decisions weekly about your home and keeping everything operating smoothly. We understand your love for your fireplace. The ambiance of a crackling fire, the warmth it brings, and the dancing flames provide a priceless backdrop for gatherings of family and friends. What a beautiful way to create memories! It is also an ideal place to sit in your favorite chair with your favorite blanket, a glass of wine, and a book to unwind from a stressful day. Watching the flames and absorbing the smells and sounds makes the challenges of the day seem far away. These are the moments we are trying to provide.

Based on codes and standards
We base our Flue & Hearth Notes Inspection Process on the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 211 Standard and Inspection Items in the Annex. Codes specify that a chimney should be inspected and cleaned, if needed, annually. Our Flue & Hearth Notes™ Inspection Process is based on these multiple inspection points and provides a comprehensive overall inspection.

Similar to a checklist from your mechanic
There can be as many as 100 inspection items for your fireplace and chimney. Many areas need inspecting to confirm they are in an operational ready condition. Our checklists provide an easy-to-view page outlining the health of your chimney.

You are the decision-maker.
Knowing what is in good repair and having control over what may need repairs or future maintenance should be placed in your hands every time a contractor comes to your home. Understanding the defect and any maintenance needed should be easily understood. We provide that for you.

You have control over your chimney inspection!
When you call to make an appointment, ask if they will be scanning the chimney. It's essential that they view the chimney interior to ensure it is in an operational-ready condition. Looking down a long dark chimney with a flashlight isn't a substitute for professional chimney scanning equipment. Another suggestion is to ask if the inspection will be based on the NFPA 211 Standard and Annex. This is the Standard of Care used for chimney inspections.

Is your sweep using Flue & Hearth Notes™?
Ask your sweep if they use the Flue & Hearth Notes™ Inspection Process. If they don't use it, don't be afraid to ask questions about their inspection, so you understand what they are telling you. After all, it is your home, and any decision you have to make should wait until you are comfortable and fully understand the condition of your installation, and any proposed solutions.

We care about you and want to ensure you have the right information to make an informed decision.