Fort Greene’s historic district holds some of Brooklyn’s oldest residential chimneys — 19th-century brownstones and rowhouses whose flues have served coal, then oil, then gas, and in many cases a fireplace that has not been lit in decades. A chimney does not stop aging because it stops being used: mortar crumbles, liners crack, caps fall off, and birds move into the open flue. An inspection is how you find out what a century of weather did up there.
We offer two inspection levels across Fort Greene, from the landmarked blocks around Fort Greene Park to the apartment buildings along Myrtle and Atlantic Avenues. Level 1 is a visual inspection of the accessible chimney — firebox, damper, smoke chamber, exterior masonry and cap — and it answers the basic question: is this chimney safe to use? Level 2 adds an endoscopy camera run through the full flue, roof to firebox, with photos and a written report. Level 2 is the right choice when buying or selling a house, after a chimney fire, or before connecting a new appliance.
Every inspection ends with a written report in plain language and photos of anything we flag — no jargon, no upsell pressure, just what we found and what it means for a house that has stood through a century of Brooklyn winters.
Before installing a new boiler in Fort Greene
If a new boiler is going into a Fort Greene brownstone or apartment building, inspect the chimney first. The flue that served the old boiler is often oversized, unlined or damaged — a Level 2 inspection shows the true condition and size, so the liner is right and the installation is not held up by a venting surprise.
Pricing
Level 1 inspections start at $99 in Brooklyn. Level 2 camera inspections start at $199 in Brooklyn.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 inspections?
Level 1 is a visual check of everything accessible — firebox, damper, exterior, cap. Level 2 adds a camera scan of the entire flue interior plus a written report with photos. Level 2 is required (by NFPA 211 guidance) when the property changes hands or a new appliance is connected.
Do I need an inspection if I never use my fireplace?
Yes. Unused flues still collect nests and debris, mortar still crumbles, and a damaged chimney can leak water into the house whether or not you light fires. Annual inspection is the NFPA 211 recommendation regardless of use.
How long does a chimney inspection take?
A Level 1 inspection usually takes under an hour. A Level 2 camera inspection takes one to two hours depending on the number of flues and roof access.
Is a chimney inspection required by law in New York City?
There is no blanket law requiring annual chimney inspections for every home. But inspection is required when a new appliance is connected or fuel type changes, and it is strongly recommended every year per NFPA 211.
Call (347) 297-9646 or message us on WhatsApp — we answer 24/7, calmly and without pressure. Heating season is here — slots fill fast, book before the rush.
Sweeps Chimney Services INC, 68 Jay Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201, (347) 297-9646.
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