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  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "BlogPosting",
  "headline": "What We Look For (And What We Don’t): The Fireplace and Chimney — What’s in Scope for Your Inspection",
  "description": "Inspectors perform a visual fireplace and chimney check, but not a full chimney sweep. Learn what we inspect and when to call in a certified chimney professional for a Level 2 or 3 inspection.",
  "author": {
    "@type": "Person",
    "name": "Inspections Over Coffee"
  },
  "publisher": {
    "@type": "Organization",
    "name": "Inspections Over Coffee",
    "logo": {
      "@type": "ImageObject",
      "url": "https://homeinspectionsovercoffee.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/home-inspector-blog-24.png"
    }
  },
  "url": "https://homeinspectionsovercoffee.com/what-we-look-for-and-what-we-dont-the-fireplace-and-chimney-whats-in-scope-for-your-inspection/",
  "mainEntity": {
    "@type": "FAQPage",
    "mainEntity": [
      {
        "@type": "Question",
        "name": "Do you start a fire in the fireplace to test it?",
        "acceptedAnswer": {
          "@type": "Answer",
          "text": "No. Inspectors do not light fires during inspections. Fireplace evaluations are visual only, checking the firebox, damper, and flue opening."
        }
      },
      {
        "@type": "Question",
        "name": "What happens if the chimney is dirty or damaged?",
        "acceptedAnswer": {
          "@type": "Answer",
          "text": "If heavy creosote, cracks, or structural issues are observed, inspectors recommend a certified chimney sweep for a Level 2 inspection."
        }
      },
      {
        "@type": "Question",
        "name": "What if the fireplace is a gas insert?",
        "acceptedAnswer": {
          "@type": "Answer",
          "text": "Gas starters and log sets are visually inspected, but not ignited during the inspection. Any issues with piping or operation are noted."
        }
      },
      {
        "@type": "Question",
        "name": "Why can’t you see all the way up the flue?",
        "acceptedAnswer": {
          "@type": "Answer",
          "text": "Home inspectors use flashlights to inspect visible areas. Internal flue inspections require a chimney sweep with a camera system."
        }
      }
    ]
  }
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