Inspection

Chimney Camera Inspection

A video scan sends a camera up the flue to show what a flashlight from the firebox can't — cracks, gaps, blockages and liner condition along the run.

Osprey technician running a video camera scan of a flue at the firebox

A camera inspection is a tool, not an inspection level on its own. We feed a high-resolution camera up the flue and view the liner along its length on a monitor, which can reveal cracked tiles, open mortar joints, gaps, offsets and obstructions that aren't visible from below. It has limits: heavy creosote can hide the surface underneath, and a camera shows condition but doesn't replace the judgment of a full inspection. We typically use it as part of a Level 2, and we'll show you the footage rather than just describing it.

What homeowners notice

  • You want to see the actual condition of the flue liner, not a general opinion
  • There's a leak, odor or draft problem with no obvious cause from the firebox
  • You're buying a home and want documented evidence of the flue's interior
  • A previous inspection flagged the liner and you want to confirm it

How we diagnose it

  • We scan the full accessible length of the flue on camera
  • We look for cracked or displaced liner tiles, open joints, gaps and offsets
  • We check for blockages — debris, nests or collapsed material
  • We note where heavy buildup limits what the camera can see, and say so honestly

Your options — and their limits

Scan as part of a Level 2

The usual context — the camera supports a documented inspection rather than standing alone.

Scan after cleaning

Because creosote can hide the liner surface, scanning a clean flue often gives a clearer picture.

Follow-up scan

To confirm the result of a repair or reline, or to monitor a known condition.

What affects the price

We don't post flat prices, because an honest number depends on what we actually find. These are the factors that move it:

  • Whether the scan is standalone or bundled with an inspection level
  • Chimney height and how many flues are scanned
  • Whether a cleaning is needed first for a clear view

When to stop using the system and get it evaluated

  • The scan shows cracks, gaps or a breached liner — stop using the system until it's evaluated for repair or relining
  • The camera finds an obstruction blocking the flue

How to prepare for the visit

  • Let the flue cool before the scan
  • Consider scheduling a sweep first if heavy buildup is likely, so the camera can see the liner

Applies to

Clay-tile lined masonry fluesMetal liners and factory-built fluesFlues with a suspected but unconfirmed problem

Questions homeowners ask

Is a camera inspection the same as a Level 2?

No. The camera is a tool used within an inspection. A Level 2 is the inspection scope; the scan is one part of how we carry it out.

Can the camera see everything?

Not always. Heavy creosote can coat and hide the liner, and tight offsets can limit the view. We tell you where the picture is limited instead of overstating it.

Related services

Serving South Florida

We provide chimney camera inspection across Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade. A few of the areas we serve:

Talk to a South Florida chimney technician

Not sure whether it's a cleaning, a repair, or something to look at before your next fire? Tell us what you're noticing and we'll help you figure out the right next step.