Chimney
Chimney sweep and inspection: what it costs in Massachusetts
How this range is built
| Part of the job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Parts and materials | $0 | $0 |
| Labor: 1 to 2 hours × $90 to $120 an hour | $90 | $240 |
| Fees: disposal, permits, supplies | $0 | $100 |
| Total, rounded | $90 | $340 |
The hourly rate is the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 average pay for this trade in Boston, $33.82 an hour, times 2.6 to 3.6 to cover what a contractor bills (overhead, tools, insurance, profit). Materials are a band from basic to high-end. Full method.
Not a repair shop, estimates only. Typical range, estimate. Not a quote. Your home, materials and contractor change the number.
Clean soot and creosote and inspect the flue for cracks and blockages. Recommended once a year for wood-burning.
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What is usually included
- Sweeping flue
- Visual inspection
- Smoke chamber check
- Report of findings
What moves the price
- A camera look inside the flue, which costs extra
- Fireplace insert vs open
- Height
- Heavy creosote
Questions to ask before you say yes
- Is a camera inspection included?
- What level of inspection (NFPA Level 1 or 2)?
- Do you clean the firebox?
- Do you give a written report?
Can you do it yourself?
Sweeping is possible with a brush kit, but spotting cracks or a damaged liner takes trained eyes and a camera.
Common questions
How often to sweep?
Once a year for wood-burning fireplaces and stoves, or after about a cord of wood. Gas and oil units also need a yearly check.
Why inspect?
Creosote buildup can cause chimney fires, and cracks or blockages can send smoke and carbon monoxide into the house. Inspection finds them early.
Do gas fireplaces need it?
Yes, a yearly check is still wise. Gas units can have blocked flues, bad seals or nests, even without soot.
How much does chimney sweep and inspection cost in Massachusetts?
A typical range is $90 to $340. It is an estimate built from labor wages and material prices, not a quote.
Typical range in 10 metro areas
Only the labor rate changes between cities. Same parts, same hours.
| Area | Typical range, estimate |
|---|---|
| Boston area, Massachusetts | $90 to $340 |
| New York City area | $95 to $370 |
| Los Angeles area, California | $85 to $330 |
| Chicago area, Illinois | $100 to $380 |
| Houston area, Texas | $60 to $260 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth area, Texas | $60 to $270 |
| Phoenix area, Arizona | $65 to $280 |
| Atlanta area, Georgia | $60 to $270 |
| Miami area, Florida | $60 to $270 |
| Seattle area, Washington | $90 to $350 |