Crown Point, IN
Chimney Sweep & Inspection Services in Crown Point, IN
Your Trusted Local Chimney Experts in Crown Point, IN
Chimney Bear provides expert chimney sweep, inspection, and repair services in Crown Point, IN, ensuring your chimney system’s safety, efficiency, and longevity. Our team of certified chimney professionals follows industry best practices and the latest safety standards to protect your home from fire hazards and improve energy efficiency.
As a local chimney company, we proudly serve homeowners in all Chicagoland areas. Whether you need chimney cleaning, camera inspections, repairs, or gas fireplace maintenance, our expert technicians are ready to deliver top-tier service with transparent reporting.
Why Chimney Maintenance is Essential
A well-maintained chimney is vital for home safety, proper ventilation, and heating efficiency. Regular chimney sweeping helps:
Reduce fire risks by removing creosote and soot buildup.
Enhance indoor air quality by preventing smoke and carbon monoxide issues.
Improve energy efficiency by ensuring proper airflow and draft performance.
Prevent costly repairs by catching minor issues before they escalate.
Neglecting chimney maintenance can lead to dangerous conditions like fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, and structural damage. Over time, soot and creosote accumulate, increasing the risk of fire hazards. Regular inspections help detect problems early, saving you from expensive repairs and ensuring the safety of your household.
Comprehensive Chimney Cleaning & Inspection Services
Chimney Sweeping & Fireplace Cleaning
Our professional chimney cleaning services in Crown Point, IN, help homeowners maintain safe, efficient fireplaces by removing:
Creosote buildup – the primary cause of chimney fires.
Soot and debris – preventing blockages and ensuring proper airflow.
Animal nests and obstructions – keeping your chimney clear and functional.
Routine chimney sweeping is essential for maintaining optimal airflow and reducing the risk of hazardous blockages. Birds, squirrels, and other animals often seek refuge in chimneys, leading to potential nesting problems. Our thorough cleaning eliminates all obstructions, ensuring your fireplace functions safely and efficiently.
Fireplace Chimney Camera Inspections
Using advanced chimney camera technology, our inspections detect:
Cracks in the flue liner – preventing dangerous gas leaks.
Hidden blockages – from birds, leaves, and debris.
Structural issues – that compromise chimney safety.
A professional camera inspection provides a detailed view of your chimney’s condition. Our high-definition camera system lets us identify even the most minor cracks or obstructions, ensuring your fireplace is safe. This proactive approach prevents costly damage and enhances the overall performance of your chimney system.
Gas & Oil Appliance Chimney Inspections
If you have gas or oil appliances (water heaters, boilers, or furnaces), our appliance chimney inspections ensure safe venting and prevent:
Carbon monoxide leaks – a silent, deadly risk.
Improper airflow – affecting efficiency and performance.
Blockages – that could cause dangerous gas buildup.
Gas appliances require efficient venting systems to expel harmful gases safely. A faulty chimney can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup, endangering your household. Our certified professionals conduct thorough inspections to detect and resolve any potential venting issues.
Digital Chimney Inspection Reports
Every chimney inspection includes a detailed digital report with photos and professional recommendations, ensuring transparency and helping you make informed decisions about chimney maintenance.
Our digital reporting system clearly and concisely documents your chimney’s condition. High-quality images and expert assessments allow you to understand any necessary repairs or maintenance recommendations. Transparency is a priority at Chimney Bear, ensuring you are fully aware of the state of your chimney.
Chimney Repair & Restoration Services in Crown Point, IN
Chimney Cap Installation
Protect your chimney from rain, animals, and debris with a stainless steel rain cap that prevents moisture damage and animal intrusions.
Moisture intrusion is one of the leading causes of chimney deterioration. Rainwater can seep into the flue without a chimney cap, leading to rust, cracks, and weakened mortar joints. Installing a high-quality stainless steel chimney cap prevents costly water damage and extends the lifespan of your chimney system.
Lock-Top Damper Installation
A top-sealing damper reduces heat loss, prevents downdrafts, and blocks moisture, improving your home’s energy efficiency.
Traditional throat dampers are often inefficient, allowing heat to escape during winter. A lock-top damper seals tightly when the fireplace is not in use, preventing drafts and enhancing energy efficiency. By retaining heat indoors, homeowners can lower their heating bills and enjoy a more comfortable living space.
Flue Liner Inspection & Repair
A damaged flue liner can lead to gas leaks and fire hazards. We offer:
Stainless steel liner repairs – ensuring longevity and safety.
The chimney is relined to restore proper venting and performance.
The flue liner is crucial to chimney safety, channeling harmful gases out of your home. Cracks or deterioration in the liner can lead to toxic fume exposure. Our expert relining services restore proper venting and protect your chimney from further damage.
FireGuard Resurfacing
FireGuard resurfacing repairs damaged mortar joints, preventing chimney fires and improving your chimney’s structural integrity.
A deteriorating chimney structure can compromise safety and efficiency. Our FireGuard resurfacing solutions reinforce weak mortar joints, ensuring your chimney remains in excellent condition for years.
Smoke Chamber Repair & Parging
Improve draft performance and prevent smoke leaks with expert smoke chamber parging, sealing gaps, and enhancing airflow.
A poorly constructed or deteriorating smoke chamber can lead to inefficient draft performance, causing smoke to enter your home instead of venting correctly. Our parging services smooth the smoke chamber’s surface, improving the performance of draft efficiency and overall chimney.
Chase Cover Replacement
A stainless steel chase cover prevents water penetration, extending your chimney’s lifespan and reducing maintenance costs.
Tuckpointing & Mortar Repair
Cracked mortar joints can lead to water damage and structural deterioration. Our expert tuckpointing services restore your chimney’s strength and appearance.
Gas Fireplace Services in Crown Point, IN
Gas Log Installation
Upgrade your fireplace with a professional gas log installation, enhancing warmth, convenience, and energy efficiency.
Gas Log Refresh & Maintenance
Ensure your gas fireplace remains clean and efficient with:
Cleaning services to remove dust and residue.
Silica sand replacement for optimal flame performance.
Ember wool updates for a realistic fireplace glow.
Dryer Vent Cleaning Services
A clogged dryer vent is a serious fire hazard. Our professional dryer vent cleaning removes lint buildup, ensuring:
Improved dryer efficiency – reducing drying times and energy costs.
Lower fire risk – by preventing overheating and lint ignition.
Better air quality – eliminating potential mold and dust accumulation.
Schedule Your Chimney Service in Crown Point, IN, Today!
How to Transfer a Real Estate Title in Crown Point, IN
Transferring a real estate title in Crown Point, Indiana, is a necessary legal process that ensures property ownership is formally changed and recognized in public records. Whether selling a home, gifting it to a family member, transferring it after a divorce or death, or placing it in a trust or business entity, a title transfer must be handled properly according to Indiana state law and Lake County procedures.
This comprehensive, SEO-optimized guide explains how to transfer a real estate title in Crown Point, including which deed to use, required forms, tax and fee information, and links to official resources.
What Is a Real Estate Title Transfer?
A real estate title transfer is the legal act of conveying property ownership from one party (called the grantor) to another (called the grantee) using a legal document known as a deed. The transfer becomes official when the deed is recorded with the Lake County Recorder's Office, which maintains the public land records for Crown Point and surrounding areas.
The new owner is not legally recognized until the transfer is recorded. Title transfers are necessary for a variety of situations, including:
Property sales
Gifts to family members
Divorce settlements
Inheritance after death
Estate planning and trust transfers
Business-related transfers (e.g., LLCs)
Why Proper Title Transfers Matter
Recording a title transfer is essential because it:
Legally establishes new ownership
Protects the grantee’s interest in the property
Updates public land records
Ensures correct property tax billing
Enables refinancing, resale, and insurance
Preserves a clear and marketable title
Without an adequately recorded title transfer, the new owner may encounter difficulties selling the property, obtaining financing, or defending ownership rights.
Step-by-Step: How to Transfer a Real Estate Title in Crown Point, IN
Step 1: Identify the Purpose of the Transfer
The first step is determining the reason for the title transfer. This will impact the type of deed used and whether any transfer taxes or exemptions apply.
Common reasons for transferring property include:
Sale to a buyer
Gift to a family member or spouse
Divorce-related ownership changes
Inheritance from a deceased owner
Placing the property in a living trust
Transferring to an LLC or business entity
Step 2: Select the Correct Type of Deed
Several deed types are legally recognized in Indiana. The most appropriate deed depends on the situation and the level of protection the grantee requires.
General Warranty Deed
Offers the highest level of protection to the grantee.
Commonly used in traditional home sales.
Guarantees the grantor holds a clear title and will defend against title claims.
Special Warranty Deed
Offers limited protection.
Guarantees only that the grantor did not cause title issues during their ownership.
Common in commercial real estate or bank-owned property.
Quitclaim Deed
Offers no guarantees or warranties.
Transfers any interest the grantor has in the property.
Often used between family members, in divorce settlements, or for simple corrections.
Transfer on Death Deed (TOD Deed)
A popular estate planning tool.
An owner can name a beneficiary who will inherit the property upon death without probate.
For complex transactions, it’s best to work with a real estate attorney to ensure the correct deed is used and complies with Indiana law.
Step 3: Draft the Deed
Once the deed type is selected, it must be drafted according to Indiana legal standards. The deed must contain:
Full names and addresses of the grantor and grantee
The complete legal description of the property (not just the street address)
The parcel number or key number (available from the Lake County Assessor)
The consideration amount (e.g., sale price, gift, or other value)
A statement certifying the deed was prepared by a specific person (e.g., an attorney or title company)
A statement designating who should receive the recorded deed (“Return to” section)
The grantor’s notarized signature
To find the legal description and parcel number for a Crown Point property, use the Lake County Assessor’s Property Lookup Tool:
https://www.lakecountyin.org/assessor
Step 4: Complete the Indiana Sales Disclosure Form (SDF)
The Sales Disclosure Form (SDF) is required for all Indiana real estate transfers, including those involving no money or non-arms length transactions. The form helps assess and update property tax records.
You can complete and file the form online through the Indiana Gateway SDF Portal:
https://gateway.ifionline.org/SDF
After completing the form:
Print the SDF
Submit it to the Lake County Assessor’s Office for approval
Receive a stamped copy for recording
Lake County Assessor – Crown Point Office
2293 N. Main Street
Crown Point, IN 46307
Phone: (219) 755-3100
There is no fee to file the SDF, but it must be stamped before you can record the deed.
Step 5: Ensure Taxes and Municipal Fees Are Paid
Before the deed is recorded, verify that all local and county obligations are satisfied:
Property taxes must be current
Sewer and utility bills must be paid
Any municipal liens should be cleared
To check property tax status, visit the Lake County Treasurer’s Office:
https://www.lakecounty.in.gov/245/Treasurer
Contact the Crown Point Utility Office for outstanding water or sewer balances:
https://www.crownpoint.in.gov
Step 6: Record the Deed with the Lake County Recorder
After the deed is signed and notarized and the SDF is approved, you must record the deed with the Lake County Recorder's Office to make the transfer official.
Lake County Recorder’s Office
2293 N. Main Street
Crown Point, IN 46307
Phone: (219) 755-3730
Website: https://www.lakecountyin.org/recorder
Methods to Record:
In person at the Recorder’s Office
By mail with a check and stamped envelope
Electronically through an e-recording service provider (used by title companies)
Recording Fees (subject to change):
$25 for the first page
$5 for each additional page
Include:
Original, signed, and notarized deed
Stamped copy of the Sales Disclosure Form
Payment for recording fees
Once recorded, the deed will be returned to the address listed in the “Return to” section.
Step 7: Notify Interested Parties
After recording, notify all relevant parties to update ownership records and ensure proper communication and billing:
Mortgage lender (if applicable)
Homeowners insurance provider
Title insurance company
Lake County Assessor’s Office (for tax records)
City of Crown Point (for utility billing)
This ensures the new owner receives property tax bills, insurance information, and local service updates.
Special Situations for Title Transfers in Crown Point
Transfers After Death (Inheritance)
Title transfers after the death of a property owner may require probate or depend on how the property was held.
1. Transfer on Death Deed (TOD Deed)
No probate is required.
The named beneficiary can claim the property by submitting the death certificate and affidavit.
2. Living Trust
If the property was titled in a living trust, the successor trustee will prepare a deed transferring the property to the heir.
3. Probate Transfer
The estate must go through probate if there was no TOD Deed or trust.
The court-appointed executor or administrator will execute and record the deed.
Learn more about Indiana probate:
https://www.in.gov/courts/self-service/probate
Transfers Due to Divorce
If the property is awarded to one spouse in a divorce, it must still be transferred by recording a Quitclaim Deed or Special Warranty Deed.
You will also need to complete a Sales Disclosure Form indicating the reason for the exemption.
Timeline for Title Transfers in Crown Point
The time required to complete a real estate title transfer depends on the transaction’s complexity:
Simple transfers: 5 to 10 business days
Probate or estate-related transfers: 2 to 6 weeks
Delays may occur if taxes are unpaid or documents are inaccurate
Working with a title company or attorney can help avoid errors and speed up the process.
Estimated Costs to Transfer a Title in Crown Point, IN
Deed preparation: $150–$500 (attorney or title company)
Recording fees: $25–$50
Sales Disclosure Form: Free
Probate or legal fees (if applicable): Varies
Title insurance or search (optional): Varies
Indiana does not charge a state real estate transfer tax, which reduces the overall cost compared to other states.
Helpful Resources for Crown Point Homeowners
City of Crown Point Official Website
https://www.crownpoint.in.govLake County Recorder of Deeds
https://www.lakecountyin.org/recorderLake County Treasurer – Tax Payments
https://www.lakecounty.in.gov/245/TreasurerLake County Assessor – Property Lookup
https://www.lakecountyin.org/assessorIndiana Sales Disclosure Form Portal
https://gateway.ifionline.org/SDFIndiana Probate Self-Help Center
https://www.in.gov/courts/self-service/probateIndiana Title Standards and Real Estate Law
https://www.inbar.org/page/RETitleStandards
Final Thoughts
Transferring a real estate title in Crown Point, IN, involves legal documentation, careful preparation, and timely recording with the Lake County Recorder's Office. Whether you’re handling a property sale, gift, estate transfer, or trust arrangement, following the correct procedures ensures a clean and enforceable title.
Suppose you’re unfamiliar with deeds or unsure about your specific situation. In that case, it's wise to work with a qualified real estate attorney or title company to protect your interests and avoid costly mistakes.
The Coolest Thing in Crown Point, Indiana: The Historic Lake County Courthouse
Crown Point, Indiana, fondly known as the “Hub of Lake County,” is a thriving Midwestern town that blends history, community pride, and small-town charm into something truly special. While this vibrant city boasts tree-lined streets, bustling festivals, and a revitalized downtown, one landmark stands tall— literally and figuratively. The most remarkable thing in Crown Point is undoubtedly the Historic Lake County Courthouse.
Sometimes referred to as the “Grand Old Lady,” the courthouse isn’t just an architectural gem—it’s a living monument to Crown Point’s past, present, and future. From its stunning 19th-century design to its central role in the community today, the Historic Lake County Courthouse is more than a building. It’s the heartbeat of the city.
A Landmark of Architectural Grandeur
Built in 1878 and designed by the acclaimed architect John C. Cochrane of Chicago, the Lake County Courthouse is a masterpiece of 19th-century design. Its bold Romanesque and Georgian architectural styles were intentionally chosen to convey strength, stability, and civic pride. The red brick façade is accented by elegant limestone detailing and arched windows, and its most prominent feature—the central clock tower—rises above the square like a sentinel watching over the city.
Walk around the courthouse, and you’ll see ornate carvings, massive columns, and a symmetrical structure representing a bygone era's craftsmanship. This is not just a utilitarian government building—it was made to impress, inspire, and last. Every corner of the building speaks to a community's confidence on the rise in the late 1800s.
Unsurprisingly, in 1973, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places, ensuring its legacy would be protected for generations to come. Architectural historian Dr. David R. Hermanson once described the courthouse as “without question one of the finest architectural expressions in Indiana,” it’s not hard to see why.
A Storied Past: The Dillinger Connection
The Historic Courthouse isn’t just famous for its looks—it’s also renowned for its legends.
Perhaps the most captivating chapter in the courthouse’s history involves John Dillinger, one of America’s most notorious gangsters. In 1934, Dillinger was held at the Lake County Jail, located just behind the courthouse, awaiting trial for the murder of an East Chicago police officer.
On March 3 of that year, in a scene straight out of a Hollywood movie, Dillinger made a dramatic and daring escape. Armed with what turned out to be a wooden gun he had carved and blackened with shoe polish, he bluffed his way out of the jail, stealing the sheriff’s Ford V8 and driving away—humiliating law enforcement and making national headlines. His escape only added to the aura of Crown Point, embedding the courthouse and the surrounding square in American outlaw lore.
Today, visitors can tour the Lake County Sheriff's House and Jail, which sits adjacent to the courthouse. The museum preserves artifacts and stories from that infamous period and offers guided tours that detail Dillinger’s life, capture, and escape. It’s a fascinating look at when Crown Point was at the center of the national spotlight.
The Cultural Heart of Crown Point
While its history is storied, the Historic Lake County Courthouse is far from a relic. The building has been beautifully restored and reimagined to serve as a cultural and social hub for Crown Point.
At the center of the city’s downtown square, the courthouse is now home to the Lake Court House Foundation, a nonprofit organization that manages the building and curates community events. The interior has been converted into boutique shops, a small history museum, art galleries, and the elegant Maki Ballroom used for weddings, fundraisers, and civic events.
The courthouse also houses the Crown Point Chamber of Commerce and offers rotating exhibitions that showcase local history and art. Inside, original features such as intricate woodwork, vaulted ceilings, and period-appropriate décor transport visitors back in time while still feeling relevant and alive.
During the holidays, the courthouse becomes a festive centerpiece. Lights wrap around the tower, wreaths line the windows, and families gather in the square for parades, festivals, and carriage rides. Events like the Corn Roast, Pumpkin Walk, and Taste of Crown Point revolve around the courthouse grounds, proving that this building is more than a monument—it’s a gathering place.
A Downtown Built Around a Landmark
One of the most remarkable things about the courthouse is how it anchors Crown Point’s downtown. Unlike many cities where historic buildings have been torn down or overshadowed by newer developments, Crown Point has embraced its heritage.
The square surrounding the courthouse has been revitalized in recent years, transforming it into a thriving hub filled with coffee shops, bakeries, restaurants, and boutiques. Outdoor seating spills into the sidewalks, and the walkable design invites residents and tourists alike to spend an afternoon shopping, dining, and exploring.
The city has ensured that the surrounding architecture complements the courthouse, creating a harmonious blend of old and new. It’s a masterclass in historic preservation done right—and it all revolves around that striking brick building in the middle.
Civic Pride and Preservation
The story of the Historic Lake County Courthouse is also one of civic pride. The building was nearly demolished in the 1970s after the county government moved into a newer facility. But residents fought back. Their campaign to save the courthouse gave rise to the Lake Court House Foundation, which has since raised funds, overseen restorations, and re-established the building as a community centerpiece.
Thanks to their efforts, the courthouse isn’t just standing—it’s thriving. Today, it’s used for weddings, public tours, educational events, art shows, and community fundraisers. It’s a multipurpose space, made even more special by its storied past and architectural elegance.
Conclusion
In Crown Point, Indiana, the past is not forgotten—it’s preserved, celebrated, and used. The Historic Lake County Courthouse is the most iconic representation of that ethos. It stands proudly in the center of town, not only as a symbol of justice and tradition but also as the living heart of the community.
From its architectural brilliance to its role in one of the most legendary jailbreaks in American history to its modern function as a hub for local culture and events, the courthouse is more than the coolest thing in Crown Point—it’s why Crown Point is as cool as it is.
