We have the highest credentials and most experience of any working chimney sweep or chimney inspector in Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Homeowners, realtors, masons, claims adjusters, and structural engineers all value the hard evidence a detailed London Aire inspection provides.
We save our clients thousands and even tens of thousands of dollars on a routine basis by being a resource for unbiased second opinions on over-priced or unnecessary chimney repair quotes, and on scare tactics used by unscrupulous contractors. Our goal from day one has always been to educate, and to make informed consumers of our clients.
Many of the systems we have inspected over the years have had zero defects and needed no repair of any kind. There are also hundreds of possible problems across the countless varieties of solid-fuel burning systems in the metro area. No one company does every possible type of repair.
The first step in a real estate transaction, or in the repair process for any fireplace or chimney, is to have the system objectively and professionally examined — so you are educated about the options that exist before spending any money on a redundant or needless repair.
Not all inspections are alike
Chimney inspections come in many forms, and you should be aware that they are not all the same. At London Aire we follow the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommended inspection procedures. The circumstances that give rise to the inspection determine how far it needs to go, and we will tell you which is appropriate for your situation before we start.
Frequency of inspection
NFPA recommends all chimneys, fireplaces, and vents be inspected annually. Beyond that annual requirement, a system should be inspected:
- After any unusual or sudden event, such as a chimney fire, lightning strike, or earthquake
- Prior to purchasing a home with an existing chimney
- Whenever changes are made to a chimney or vent system, including replacement of connected appliances
- Prior to major system repairs
One honest caveat
Even the most thorough inspection will not reveal every problem. Some areas of a chimney simply are not accessible given how the house is built. Discuss any specific concerns with your sweep — the recommended technique is often based on what you tell us.
It works much like a visit to your doctor. Your doctor probably does not run an EKG and a full set of X-rays at every visit. But if you mention chest pains, they will run the tests related to that problem.