How Much Does a Chimney Sweep Cost in North Carolina?

Jason Mack
Jul 26
3 min read

Everything NC homeowners need to know before scheduling their next chimney cleaning.

If you’re a homeowner in Charlotte, Salisbury, Greensboro, Huntersville or anywhere in North Carolina, you’ve likely asked :“How much does a chimney sweep cost?”

It’s a fair question — especially when pricing can range from $130 to over $600, depending on the type of service, condition of the chimney, and your location.

In this guide, we break down what impacts the cost of chimney cleaning and inspection, so you can make an informed decision and avoid overpaying.

Average Chimney Sweep Cost in NC

Service Type	Price Range (Typical)
Basic Chimney Sweep (Level 1)	$130 – $380
Level 2 Chimney Inspection	$260 – $460
Level 3 Chimney Inspection	$500 – $800+
Heavy Creosote Removal	$300 – $600
Animal / Nest Removal	$100 – $600
Minor Repairs (crown, flashing)	$150 – $500

🔍 What Affects the Price of a Chimney Sweep?

1. Type of Fireplace

Wood-burning fireplaces typically require more extensive cleaning due to creosote buildup.
Gas fireplaces are usually cheaper to clean since they produce less residue.

2. Level of Inspection Required

Level 1: Basic sweep & visual inspection. Ideal for annual maintenance.
Level 2: Includes video scanning and inspection of concealed areas — often required during real estate transactions or after damage.
Level 3: Rare but highly invasive. Includes removal of walls or chimney components to access hidden issues.

3. Condition of the Chimney

More soot, more creosote, or signs of leaks? You’ll likely pay more.
Chimneys that haven’t been cleaned in 3+ years may require deep cleaning and hazard removal.

4. Accessibility

Roof slope, height, and safety risks affect labor cost.
Chimneys in multi-story homes or hard-to-reach locations will require more time, equipment, and safety precautions.

5. Location

Prices in Charlotte or Greensboro might be slightly higher due to demand, while rural areas may have fewer providers but lower average costs.
In cities like Salisbury, where there’s a mix of older homes and modern builds, the pricing may vary widely depending on the chimney’s age and design.

🛠 Add-On Services That May Increase the Cost

Add-On	Typical Cost
Creosote Removal (Stage 3)	$300 – $600
Chimney Cap Installation	$200 – $800
Crown Sealing / Repair	$150 – $600
Nest or Animal Removal	$100 – $600
Waterproofing	$150 – $350

🧠 Cost-Saving Tips for Homeowners

✅ Schedule Off-Season

Spring and summer usually offer lower prices, as demand drops.

✅ Don’t Wait Too Long

A chimney that hasn't been cleaned in 3+ years might require deeper cleaning and even minor repairs — which costs more.

✅ Ask for Visual Proof

Choose companies that provide before/after photos or video footage. Transparency builds trust — and ensures you’re getting what you paid for.

All work is performed by CSIA-certified technicians, with a full report, photos, and safety recommendations included.

🧯 Why This Matters

Skipping chimney maintenance isn’t just about money — it’s about safety.

According to the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), over 25,000 chimney fires occur in the U.S. every year, causing over $125 million in property damage — most due to creosote buildup.

Regular chimney sweeping not only protects your home but helps your fireplace burn more efficiently — saving on energy and fuel costs.