Hiring a chimney sweep runs between $130 and $380
When it comes to your fireplace, a chimney sweep is as important as fuzzy slippers and a good book. These pros inspect, clean, and help maintain your fireplace so you can enjoy it safely and with peace of mind. Hiring a chimney sweep costs between $130 and $380, depending on the work they do. Let's take a closer look at the costs.
How Much Does a Chimney Sweep Cost by Level of Inspection?
There are three levels of chimney sweep inspections. Some chimney sweeps charge an average of $65 an hour, while others offer a flat rate based on the inspection level. You may need a more extensive inspection when buying a home or getting ready to do construction, and you'll typically encounter three levels of chimney sweep inspections.
Every time you light a fire in the fireplace or woodstove, a small portion of the burnt wood doesn't quite make it out of the chimney. Over time, residue builds up into a combustible material called creosote—the leading cause of chimney fires.
On the most basic level, certified chimney sweeps will:
Inspect your chimney for creosote and other obstructions
Remove creosote and blockages with a wire brush
Check for structural issues
Beyond that, here’s what’s typically involved in each level of inspection:
Level One
Once you hire a chimney sweep near you a level-one inspection typically comes with your cleaning. This basic chimney checkup and cleaning runs between $80 and $200.
Level Two
Order a level-two inspection when putting your home on the market. Chimney sweeps may also recommend it before completing chimney updates like refitting the liner or chimney cap. The pro will use a camera to inspect the chimney and surrounding areas—like your attic and roof—more thoroughly. Expect to pay $100 to $500 for a level-two inspection.
Level Three
Let's say your chimney weathered a terrible storm or even a recent earthquake. If you're concerned about serious structural damage, a level-three inspection is your best bet. The work is incredibly detailed and runs from $1,000 to $5,000.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Chimney Sweep Near You?
Like most home repairs and contractor costs, chimney sweep prices vary depending on where you live. In some cases, this is simply due to your local cost of living. Other factors—like an abundance of multi-chimney homes in your area—may increase the price.
Here's a look at common chimney sweep costs by various U.S. states:
Alabama: $140
Colorado: $170
Florida: $250
Iowa: $230
Massachusetts: $380
New Jersey: $550
Oregon: $200
Wisconsin: $210
Regardless of where you live, you should make sure your chimney sweep is CSIA-certified.
What Kind of Chimney Sweep Service Can I Get on My Budget?
Here are common ranges for chimney care.
$80–$200
Most level-one inspections fall within this range. However, expect the lowest prices for gas stove inspections in less expensive parts of the country.
$200–$500
Upgrade to a level-two inspection for between $200 and $500—the ideal pick if you haven't used your fireplace in a long time, are concerned about damage, or need to order a real estate inspection. You can also pay for minor repairs with this count, such as replacing your chimney flashing, the liner between your roof and the chimney.
$500–$2,000
Check off the majority of repairs on your list in this range, depending on the size of your chimney. You can also order some level-three inspections for this amount.
$2,000+
Only expect to pay over $2,000 if you need a level-three inspection on a large chimney or need extensive repairs.
How Much Does It Cost to Clean a Chimney Yourself?
Chimney sweeps are highly trained and certified professionals. Their work can protect your home against chimney fires and carbon monoxide. In other words, handling all chimney inspections and cleaning on your own isn't the best plan.
But you can still do your part to keep your fireplace safe. The CSIA provides a thorough guide on choosing the right wood and burning it safely in your fireplace or woodstove.
For example, you can use creosote logs to loosen the buildup of dangerous residue inside your chimney throughout the year. Each log costs an average of $15 and can be used between professional cleanings. You can also act as the eyes and ears for your chimney sweep between cleanings by:
Visually inspecting the opening on your flue for creosote
Noting an influx of smoke in your home after lighting a fire
Keeping your carbon monoxide detector up to date
Chimney Sweep Cost Breakdown
Many certified chimney sweeps list a level-one inspection as "free" when lumped in with the cost of a cleaning. However, you should still receive a free estimate before the sweep begins work. The cost breaks down by:
Inspection
Cleaning
Additional services
How Much Does Each Type of Chimney Service Cost?
Chimneys do need a little TLC over time, particularly in older homes. During your annual visit, chimney sweeps may recommend further repairs to keep your chimney running safely and efficiently. These are some of the most common additional services with their prices:
Installing or replacing a chimney cap: $150–$700
Replacing a flue/chimney liner: $1,600–$5,000
Adding or replacing chimney flashing: $200–$500
Repairing fireplace damper: $100–$225; replacements run from $200–$300
You may occasionally discover an animal trapped in your chimney. A chimney sweep can help free the critter for between $175 and $500.
How Much Does a Chimney Sweep Cost by the Style of Your Fireplace?
Whether rustic or modern, all fireplaces and stoves require annual inspections; Here’s a look at costs by fireplace style.
Gas fireplace maintenance: $80–$130
Pellet stove inspection and cleaning: $130–$200
Standard wood stove upkeep: $150–$300
What Factors Influence the Cost to Hire a Chimney Sweep?
While chimney sweep estimates fall within a common range for level-one inspections and basic cleanings, prices may vary slightly in one direction or the other based on your specific needs. Remember, be sure to get quotes from at least three pros, and check their online reviews.
Chimney sweep prices depend on:
Where you live
Type of fireplace or stove
Size of your chimney
Access to your chimney
Length between chimney inspections
Level of inspection and extra services
FAQs About Hiring a Chimney Sweep
A dependable chimney sweep is one of those home repair specialists you should hang on to. Here are some commonly asked questions to find your go-to pro.
How do I hire a certified chimney sweep?
Hire an expert chimney cleaner near you in a few easy steps:
Check online listings, ask for local recommendations, or check the CSIA database.
Be sure your chimney sweep candidates have CSIA certification and commercial liability insurance.
Request a free estimate from three prospective pros.
Sign a contract and clarify payment terms before the work begins.
Be wary of chimney sweeps that come right to your door or call unannounced with "great deals." To avoid chimney sweep scams, you should never feel pressured to rush the vetting process.
When should I have my chimney inspected?
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends having your chimney inspected at least once a year. In most cases, the start of the season or right at the end of the summer is your best bet. If you light a fire every night from October to April, bring in a pro midway through the season to check for creosote buildup.
You may also need a chimney inspected if you're selling or buying a home, detect an issue with your chimney, or recently had some extreme weather.
What other projects can I do at the same time?
While you're sprucing up the inside of the chimney, why not get those design wheels turning for the outside as well? Consider switching up your fireplace and mantlepiece design, for example. Working with a gas stove? How about a new fireplace mounting option to play with the balance of a room. You can even add a ventless fireplace to your bedroom for maximum coziness.
