Chimney Camera/Inspection; Inspection Scope

1. Pre-Inspection Information

• Confirm type of appliance served (fireplace, wood stove, gas appliance, oil appliance, etc.)
• Confirm venting system type (masonry chimney, metal chimney, flue liner type)
• Verify access location for camera insertion
• Note any obstructions preventing full inspection
• Confirm chimney has been cooled and is safe to inspect

2. Exterior Chimney Visual Review

• Chimney structure (leaning, cracking, deterioration)
• Exterior masonry/brick condition
• Chimney crown condition (cracks, gaps, material failure) If accessible
• Chimney cap or spark arrestor presence and condition
• Flashing condition at roofline (rust, gaps, improper sealing)
• Evidence of moisture intrusion or staining
• Clearances to combustibles

3. Interior Firebox/Appliance Review

• Firebox walls and floor condition
• Damper operation and condition
• Smoke chamber accessibility and condition
• Soot accumulation/creosote level (light, moderate, heavy)
• Presence of combustible debris or blockages
• Gas log set or appliance connections (if applicable)

4. Camera Scope Inspection (Flue/Chimney Interior)

• Verify flue liner material (clay tile, stainless steel, aluminum, unlined)
• Check for the following conditions throughout entire flue:
• Cracked or broken flue tiles
• Missing sections or gaps
• Mortar joint deficiencies
• Offset or misaligned flue tiles
• Heavy creosote or soot accumulation
• Evidence of prior chimney fires
• Blockages (nests, debris, fallen tiles)
• Water intrusion, staining, or rust
• Corrosion or warping (metal liners)
• Improper liner size or installation

5. Chimney Termination Inspection (Top-Down View if Accessible)

• Flue termination height meets clearance requirements
• Cap secured and functioning
• Crown/termination seal free of cracks
• Proper separation between flues (if multiple)
• Evidence of animal entry or debris

6. Safety & Performance Observations

• Clearance to combustibles in attic or chase if accessible
• Presence of thimbles, block-offs, or proper transitions
• Drafting issues (visible during operation)
• Signs of leakage or staining
• Clean-out access present and functional

7. Documentation

• Photos and/or video recordings saved
• Summary of deficiencies discovered
• Code references (NFPA 211 if needed)
• Recommendation for Level II or Level III inspection if required
• Repair or cleaning recommendations (certified chimney professional)
• Safety warnings provided if system is unsafe for use

Limitations & Exclusions

Chimney Scope Inspection Disclaimer

The chimney scope inspection is a limited, non-invasive visual inspection performed using a camera inserted into accessible portions of the chimney flue. This inspection is not a code compliance evaluation and does not constitute a warranty or guarantee of the chimney’s current condition or future performance.

Only areas visible to the camera at the time of inspection are evaluated. Obstructions, bends, debris, soot accumulation, structural limitations, or inaccessible sections may prevent full viewing of the flue system. Conditions may exist that were not visible or detectable during the inspection.

This inspection does not include disassembly of components, destructive inspection, or verification of concealed conditions. Chimney performance can vary based on weather, operation, prior maintenance, and installation factors.

The roof may not be accessed for many reasons including height and safety concerns

The inspector is not responsible for any changes or deterioration that occur after the inspection or for hidden defects not visible through normal camera inspection methods. It is recommended that all identified deficiencies be reviewed, repaired, or further evaluated by a qualified, licensed chimney professional in accordance with NFPA 211 standards.

If safety hazards or significant defects are found, the system should not be used until evaluated and repaired by a certified chimney specialist.

This is not a complete home inspection

CLICK HERE TO FIND A COPY OF THE TN Standards of Practice