Annual inspections are crucial for evaluating the chimney’s structural integrity and identifying minor issues before they develop into severe health and safety hazards, necessitating costly repairs. A chimney camera can detect tiny cracks in the flue, liner, and masonry walls before they become more severe, leading to chimney fires or carbon monoxide issues.
That’s why homeowners across the North Shore and Merrimack Valley trust Sweepnman’s team of experts for certified chimney camera inspections of their chimney flues.
What is a Chimney Camera Inspection?
A chimney camera inspection—also known as a Level 2 Inspection—is a thorough evaluation of the accessible portions of the chimney and vents, including the flue, attic, basement, and crawl spaces, which are part of the standard visual inspection (Level 1). However, the Level 2 inspection also utilizes a specialized camera system to examine the interior surfaces of the flue liner, which are not visible to the unaided eye.
When Do You Need It?
We recommend a chimney camera inspection in the following situations:
- Enhanced Level 1: To catch early signs of deterioration, debris, or blockages that compromise safety or efficiency, Sweepnman recommends having a chimney camera inspection every year.
- Level 2: A chimney camera inspection is required in addition to a standard home inspection before the transfer of real property. It is important to note that most standard home inspectors are not certified for chimney inspections.
- Appliance Changes: When replacing or adding a heating appliance (such as a furnace, boiler, or wood stove), a Level 2 camera inspection of the flue is required.
- Weather Events: Following a significant storm, lightning strike, or chimney fire, a camera inspection is necessary to assess the integrity of the flue.
How the ChimCam System Works:
The chimney camera, also known as a “ChimCam,” is a high-resolution, waterproof camera mounted on a flexible cable. As the technician snakes the camera through the flue, it captures the surface condition in real-time on the video monitor. Both the technician and the homeowner can see any imperfections right before their eyes.
This technology allows the certified sweep to identify and document:
- Hairline Cracks: Tiny fractures in clay or metal liners that can allow heat and dangerous gases to escape into the home.
- Mortar Joint Failure: Deterioration of mortar between clay tiles increases the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Hidden Obstructions: Bird’s nests, bits of masonry, or foreign objects that could block the flue and cause back puffing, forcing smoke, soot, and exhaust into the living space.
- Corrosion: Pitting or rust in metal flues used by oil or gas appliances that can lead to dangerous consequences.
Detailed Inspection Report
Your certified sweep will provide a comprehensive, detailed report. This report outlines the overall condition of the chimney and flue, highlights any immediate safety hazards, and includes photographic and video documentation of any deficiencies found inside the flue. This report is vital for homeowners to plan necessary repairs and is mandatory for buyers and sellers before closing a real estate transaction.
Call Sweepnman for Chimney Camera Inspections in MA/NH
Sweepnman offers certified chimney camera inspections with detailed reports for homeowners and real estate professionals across the North Shore and Merrimack Valley areas, including Pepperell, MA, Carlisle, MA, Newton, MA, Amherst, NH, Pelham, NH, and Londonderry, NH. Don’t wait for a chimney leak to occur. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with a certified chimney sweep or request an estimate. Fully insured and bonded for your protection and peace of mind. Ask about our convenient oil and gas flue inspection service!
