A video inspection of the chimney flue reveals hidden cracks, damage, and fire hazards that no visual check can find.
The exterior of a chimney can look perfectly fine while the interior flue is cracked, deteriorated, blocked, or harboring a serious fire hazard. A standard home inspection cannot evaluate the interior of a chimney flue — it requires a camera.
A chimney scope inserts a video camera into the flue to document the interior condition from top to bottom. Cracks in the flue liner, mortar deterioration, animal nests, blockages, and creosote buildup are all revealed in detail that a flashlight inspection can never match.
If you love the idea of a wood-burning fireplace but want to know it's safe to use — this inspection is essential.
Chimney fires can burn inside the flue for hours without the homeowner knowing. Cracked flue liners allow heat and embers to reach combustible framing — one of the leading causes of house fires.
If the home has a wood-burning fireplace, gas insert, wood stove, or any solid-fuel appliance — a chimney scope is not optional. It's essential.
A flashlight inspection can see a few feet into the firebox but cannot evaluate the full length of the flue, the condition of the liner, or anything above the first few feet. A scope camera provides full documentation of the entire interior.
Cracked flue liners can often be relined with a stainless steel liner — a repair that's far less expensive than a full rebuild. Having documentation of the crack gives you negotiating power before closing.
Yes — chimney scope is included in the Best Protection package ($1,350). It can also be added individually for $200 per chimney.
Yes. Gas fireplaces and inserts also vent through a flue, and that flue is subject to the same deterioration as a wood-burning chimney. Any vented fireplace or appliance benefits from a scope inspection.
Call or text Tara to schedule — Certified Master Inspector Brandon Tidwell serves all of Central Arkansas.