East Chicago, IN
Chimney Sweep & Inspection Services in East Chicago, IN
Your Trusted Local Chimney Experts in East Chicago, IN
Chimney Bear provides expert chimney sweep, inspection, and repair services in East Chicago, 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 East Chicago, 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 East Chicago, 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 East Chicago, 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 East Chicago, IN, Today!
How to Transfer a Real Estate Title in East Chicago, IN
Suppose you are buying or selling property in East Chicago, Indiana, or need to transfer ownership for estate, gift, or legal purposes. In that case, you must go through the formal process of transferring the real estate title. The title transfer ensures the new owner is legally recognized and that the transaction is properly recorded in Lake County public records.
This guide explains everything you need to know about transferring a real estate title in East Chicago, IN, including the types of deeds, forms required by Indiana law, tax implications, and how to record your deed with the Lake County Recorder's Office.
What Is a Real Estate Title Transfer?
A real estate title transfer is the legal process of changing ownership of a property. The individual or entity currently owning the property (the grantor) transfers their legal interest in the property to another person or entity (the grantee) through a document known as a deed.
To be legally valid, the deed must be properly prepared, signed, notarized, and recorded with the Lake County Recorder. Once recorded, the transaction becomes part of the official public record.
When Is a Title Transfer Required?
A title transfer is necessary whenever ownership of a property changes. This includes:
Selling a home or land
Gifting property to a family member
Divorce-related property settlements
Inheritance or estate distribution
Placing property into a trust or LLC
Transferring title for business or investment purposes
Failing to record a title transfer may result in tax problems, legal complications, and disputes over ownership.
Why Recording the Title Transfer Matters
A properly recorded deed:
Legally proves the new owner’s interest in the property
Updates the Lake County Assessor and Treasurer's tax records
Allows the new owner to refinance or sell the property
Ensures property tax bills go to the correct party
Protects against title fraud or future disputes
Without a properly executed and recorded transfer, the grantee may not have full legal rights to the property—even if a transaction occurs.
Step-by-Step: How to Transfer a Real Estate Title in East Chicago, IN
Step 1: Identify the Purpose of the Transfer
Your reason for transferring ownership will help determine the correct type of deed and whether any exemptions or special forms apply.
Common reasons include:
Traditional real estate sale
Gifting to a child, parent, or spouse
Divorce or legal separation
Estate inheritance
Trust creation or dissolution
Adding or removing a name from the deed
Step 2: Choose the Right Type of Deed
Indiana recognizes several types of deeds for transferring real estate. The choice depends on the transaction type and how much legal protection you want to offer the recipient.
General Warranty Deed
Most commonly used in home sales.
Guarantees that the grantor holds clear title and will defend against any future claims.
Offers the most substantial protection to the grantee.
Special Warranty Deed
Provides limited warranty.
The grantor guarantees the title was clear only during their ownership period.
Often used in commercial sales or foreclosures.
Quitclaim Deed
Transfers ownership with no warranties.
The grantor gives up any interest they may have but makes no guarantee that they legally own the property.
Frequently used between family members or in divorce settlements.
Transfer on Death Deed (TODD)
An owner can name a beneficiary who will inherit the property after death.
Avoids probate.
It must be recorded before the owner’s death.
Consult a real estate attorney or title company if you're unsure which deed to use.
Step 3: Prepare the Deed
Once you've chosen the deed type, it must be appropriately drafted and include all required information under Indiana law:
Full legal names and mailing addresses of grantor and grantee
The legal description of the property (not just the street address)
The parcel number (available from the Lake County Assessor)
Statement of consideration (sale price, gift value, or other)
"Prepared by" section with the preparer's name and address
"Return to" section for mailing the recorded deed
The notarized signature of the grantor
To locate the legal description and parcel number, visit:
https://www.lakecountyin.org/assessor
Accuracy is critical. Any errors may delay the transfer or require re-recording.
Step 4: Complete the Indiana Sales Disclosure Form (SDF)
All real estate transfers in Indiana—whether for sales, gifts, or inheritance—require a Sales Disclosure Form (SDF). This form is used to update property tax and assessment records.
Complete the form online here:
https://gateway.ifionline.org/SDF
After submitting online:
Print the completed SDF.
Please take it to the Lake County Assessor’s Office in Crown Point for stamping.
Bring the stamped form with your deed to the Recorder’s Office.
Lake County Assessor
2293 N. Main Street
Crown Point, IN 46307
Phone: (219) 755-3100
There is no fee for the Sales Disclosure Form, but you must submit it before recording the deed.
Step 5: Pay Any Transfer or Recording Fees
Indiana does not charge a state-level real estate transfer tax, which lowers the cost compared to many other states. However, you must still pay recording fees.
Recording fees with the Lake County Recorder are:
$25 for the first page
$5 for each additional page
Additional fees may apply for e-recording or certified copies
Fees must be paid at the recording time, either in person or by mail with a check.
Step 6: Verify That All Taxes and Municipal Bills Are Paid
Before transferring title, ensure the property is in good financial standing:
Property taxes must be paid and up to date
Utility bills (water, sewer, sanitation) must be paid
No municipal liens or violations should exist
Check tax payment status with the Lake County Treasurer:
https://www.lakecounty.in.gov/245/Treasurer
For utilities in East Chicago, contact:
East Chicago Sanitary District
https://www.eastchicago.com
Unpaid balances can cause delays or prevent recording.
Step 7: Record the Deed with the Lake County Recorder
After preparing your deed and SDF and confirming that your taxes are current, you must record the documents with the Lake County Recorder’s Office.
Lake County Recorder
2293 N. Main Street
Crown Point, IN 46307
Phone: (219) 755-3730
Website: https://www.lakecountyin.org/recorder
Ways to Record:
In-person: Recommended if you need confirmation immediately
By mail: Include a check and a stamped return envelope
Electronically: Through a title company or authorized e-recording provider
Include:
Original, notarized deed
Stamped Sales Disclosure Form
Check for the correct fee
Once recorded, the deed becomes part of the public record, and a copy will be returned to you.
Step 8: Notify Key Parties of the Title Transfer
After the deed is recorded, notify all necessary parties to update official records:
Mortgage lender (if the property is financed)
Homeowners insurance provider
Lake County Assessor’s Office (to ensure tax billing is updated)
City of East Chicago (for utility and service accounts)
Title insurance company (if applicable)
Failure to notify could result in tax misbilling, insurance issues, or service interruptions.
Special Situations for Title Transfers in East Chicago, IN
Inheritance and Estate Transfers
Transfer on Death Deed (TODD)
If a TODD was recorded before the property owner’s death, the named beneficiary could claim the property by recording:
Certified death certificate
Affidavit of survivorship
Copy of the original TODD
Trust-Based Transfers
If the property is held in a living trust, the successor trustee will sign and record the deed transferring ownership to the beneficiary.
Probate Transfers
The estate must go through Indiana probate court if there is no TODD or trust. The court-appointed executor or administrator will prepare the deed and complete the transfer.
Learn more about probate:
https://www.in.gov/courts/self-service/probate
Transfers Due to Divorce
When a court awards property to one spouse in a divorce, a Quitclaim Deed must be executed to transfer full ownership.
Steps:
Prepare a Quitclaim Deed
Complete the Sales Disclosure Form with the exemption
Record the deed with the Lake County Recorder
How Long Does It Take to Transfer a Title?
The timeline depends on the complexity of the transaction:
Simple transfers (sales, gifts, TODDs): 3 to 10 business days
Estate or divorce-related transfers: 2 to 6 weeks
Delays may occur due to missing documents, unpaid taxes, or legal disputes
Estimated Costs to Transfer a Real Estate Title in East Chicago
Here is a breakdown of typical costs:
Deed preparation (via attorney or title company): $150–$500
Recording fee: $25–$50
Sales Disclosure Form: Free
Title insurance or title search (optional): Varies by company
Legal fees for probate or trusts (if applicable): Varies
Helpful Resources for East Chicago Property Owners
Lake County Recorder:
https://www.lakecountyin.org/recorderLake County Treasurer (Tax Status):
https://www.lakecounty.in.gov/245/TreasurerLake County Assessor:
https://www.lakecountyin.org/assessorIndiana Sales Disclosure Form Portal:
https://gateway.ifionline.org/SDFIndiana Probate Self-Help:
https://www.in.gov/courts/self-service/probateCity of East Chicago Official Site:
https://www.eastchicago.comIndiana State Bar – Title Standards:
https://www.inbar.org/page/RETitleStandards
Final Thoughts
Transferring a real estate title in East Chicago, Indiana, requires careful attention to legal documentation, accurate property information, and timely recording with Lake County. Whether you’re transferring title due to a sale, inheritance, gift, or legal settlement, following these steps will ensure the process is compliant and properly recorded.
For complicated transfers involving trusts, estates, or court orders, it’s best to work with a real estate attorney or title company to avoid costly mistakes and delays.
The Coolest Thing About East Chicago, IN: The Historic and Unforgettable Marktown
Tucked into the industrial heartland of Northwest Indiana, East Chicago might not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of architectural wonder or historic charm. But hidden within its steel mill surroundings is one of the most unusual and fascinating neighborhoods in the United States: Marktown. Designed in 1917 as a model industrial community, Marktown is not only the coolest thing about East Chicago—it’s one of the Midwest’s best-kept secrets.
This quirky, architecturally distinct neighborhood has survived over a century of industrial change, urban development, and economic transformation. It offers a rare, living glimpse into early 20th-century urban planning and the vision of a more humane and community-centered industrial America.
What Is Marktown?
Marktown is a small historic district located in the Indiana Harbor section of East Chicago. It was designed by renowned Chicago architect Howard Van Doren Shaw, best known for his work on high-end residences in the Chicago area. But Marktown wasn’t intended for the wealthy elite. Instead, industrialist Clayton Mark commissioned it to serve as a planned community for the workers of his Mark Manufacturing Company.
The goal? To create a safe, walkable, community-focused environment for steelworkers and their families—a radical idea at a time when most industrial laborers lived in crowded, often unsanitary conditions near factories.
A Neighborhood Like No Other
What immediately stands out when visiting Marktown is how the streets are designed—cars park on the sidewalks, and pedestrians walk in the road. This unusual layout wasn’t an accident; it was part of Shaw’s vision. Narrow streets, houses close to the curb, and tightly clustered lots were meant to encourage interaction and community engagement, making the neighborhood feel more like a village than a typical industrial suburb.
The homes themselves are tiny but full of character, with Tudor Revival and Colonial-style architecture uncommon in worker housing. Even when working on a modest budget, decorative facades, quaint porches, and unique detailing reveal Shaw’s artistry and care for design.
A Grand Plan—Only Partially Realized
Marktown was meant to be much larger. Clayton Mark’s plan called for over 200 buildings, including schools, shops, and recreational facilities. However, the outbreak of World War I and shifting economic realities meant that only about 10% of the original plan was ever completed.
Still, what was built has endured. The original homes—about 40 buildings in total—remain intact and are still occupied today. In 1975, the Marktown Historic District was added to the National Register of Historic Places, cementing its significance as an architectural and social experiment.
A Living Time Capsule
Walking through Marktown feels like stepping back in time. The community is small enough to explore on foot in under an hour, yet every corner reveals something charming and surprising. The aged brickwork, the quirky street pattern, and the faded echoes of early 20th-century optimism make it a place where history feels alive.
Despite being surrounded by the steel mills and heavy industry that define East Chicago, Marktown has maintained its identity. It’s a testament to the resilience of both architecture and the people who’ve called it home for generations.
The Fight to Preserve Marktown
Marktown’s story hasn’t been all charm and nostalgia. Over the years, the neighborhood has faced existential threats—particularly from the surrounding industrial companies, including BP, which have purchased properties for potential expansion and environmental buffer zones.
Many residents have resisted efforts to buy them out, fearing that the demolition of Marktown would mean the loss of historic architecture and a community with deep generational roots. Preservationists and historians alike have voiced concerns about the neighborhood's future and the cultural loss its destruction would represent.
In recent years, the City of East Chicago initiated a feasibility study to explore preservation and renovation options for Marktown. Various nonprofits and community advocates have also worked to raise awareness and funding to help protect and revitalize the district.
Why Marktown Is the Coolest Thing About East Chicago
So, why is Marktown the most remarkable thing about East Chicago? Because it represents a time when industrial capitalism flirted with social idealism. It’s a place that blends unusual urban planning, artistic architectural design, and working-class heritage into a living neighborhood that defies expectations.
Most American cities have seen their early 20th-century working-class neighborhoods erased, redeveloped, or gentrified beyond recognition. Marktown is one of the very few places where this type of community still exists as envisioned initially—albeit altered by time and industrial encroachment.
Markdown is not polished or touristy. It’s gritty. It’s real. But it’s also full of character and history, offering a uniquely authentic experience that’s increasingly rare in modern America.
How to Visit Marktown
If you're planning a trip to East Chicago or the greater Chicago metro area, Marktown is only about 30 minutes from downtown Chicago. This makes it a great detour for architecture buffs, history lovers, or anyone who enjoys off-the-beaten-path experiences.
There are no formal tours, and some streets are closed off due to ongoing concerns about industrial activity nearby. Still, walking through Marktown is generally safe during daylight hours, and respectful visitors are welcome.
Just be aware that this is a residential neighborhood. People live here, and it’s essential to be considerate of private property and residents.
A Reminder of What Was—and What Could Be
In an age of sprawling suburbs and faceless development, Marktown offers a different vision of community, intentional design, and humanity within the industrial machine. It’s a reminder that our cities don’t have to be shaped solely by economics—ideals, people, and history can shape them.
Whether you're a local or just passing through, take a little time to discover Marktown. It might not be flashy, but it’s intensely cool in a way that few places are anymore.
And that’s why it’s the coolest thing about East Chicago, Indiana.
