CCTV Chimney Inspection Services

What is a CCTV Chimney Inspection?

A CCTV chimney inspection uses a specialist camera system to visually examine the interior of your chimney from bottom to top. This allows us to identify issues that cannot be seen during a standard chimney sweep, including:

• Cracks in the flue lining or chimney structure
• Deterioration of mortar joints
• Partial blockages or obstructions
• Structural damage or movement
• Missing or damaged chimney pots
• Water ingress or damp issues
• Bird nests or debris locations
• Incorrect construction or alterations

The high-resolution camera footage allows us to inspect every inch of your chimney flue, providing clear evidence of any problems and helping to determine the best course of action.

Our CCTV Inspection Services

When Do You Need a CCTV Chimney Inspection?

1. Before Buying a Property

If you're purchasing a property with a chimney, a CCTV survey can identify hidden problems before you commit. Chimney repairs can be expensive, and knowing the true condition helps you make informed decisions or negotiate the purchase price.

2. After a Chimney Fire

Chimney fires can reach extreme temperatures and cause serious structural damage that isn't visible from the outside. A CCTV survey is essential after any chimney fire to check for:

• Cracked or damaged flue liners
• Weakened mortar joints
• Structural movement or damage
• Areas of concern before re-use

3. Smoke or Performance Issues

If your chimney is producing smoke inside the house, not drawing properly, or showing other performance problems, a CCTV inspection can identify the cause:

• Partial blockages from debris or nests
• Structural defects affecting airflow
• Incorrect chimney construction
• Damage to the flue

4. Before Major Work or Installation

Planning to install a new wood burner or undertake chimney modifications? A CCTV survey helps ensure the chimney is suitable and identifies any preparation work needed before installation.

5. Water Ingress or Damp

If you're experiencing damp problems around your chimney or fireplace, a camera survey can identify:

• Cracks allowing water penetration
• Missing or damaged flaunching
• Broken chimney pots
• Areas where water is entering the structure

6. Routine Structural Assessment

For older properties or chimneys that haven't been inspected in many years, a CCTV survey provides peace of mind about the internal condition. This is particularly valuable for:

• Period properties with historic chimneys
• Chimneys that have been unused for extended periods
• Properties in exposed locations (coastal, hilltop)
• Chimneys showing external signs of deterioration

What Happens During a CCTV Inspection?

The Process

1. Preparation: We'll need clear access to your fireplace or stove. The chimney should ideally be swept before a CCTV inspection for the clearest possible images.
2. Camera Setup: We insert a specialist chimney camera with powerful lighting into the flue
3. Survey: The camera is slowly moved up through the entire length of the chimney while recording high-quality footage
4. Assessment: We review the footage, identifying any issues or concerns
5. Discussion: We explain our findings to you (verbal report) or note everything for the written report
6. Recommendations: We advise on any action needed - repairs, maintenance, or confirmation that all is well

How Long Does It Take?

A typical CCTV chimney inspection takes 30-45 minutes on-site. If you've chosen the full written report option, you'll receive your detailed report with images via email within 2-3 working days.

Common Issues Found During CCTV Inspections

Cracked or Damaged Flue Liners

Flue liners can crack due to age, thermal stress from fires, or chimney fires. Cracks allow smoke, gases, and heat to escape into the chimney structure and potentially into your home. Depending on severity, relining may be recommended.

Deteriorating Mortar

Over time, mortar joints between bricks can deteriorate, especially in older chimneys. This can cause structural weakness and allow water ingress. Repointing may be needed from the inside or outside.

Partial Blockages

Nests, debris, fallen bricks, or accumulated soot can partially block a chimney. A CCTV survey shows exactly where the blockage is located and its severity, helping plan the best removal method.

Structural Movement or Damage

Chimneys can lean, settle, or show signs of movement over time. A camera survey can reveal internal evidence of structural issues that may need attention from a structural engineer or building professional.

Incorrect Installation or Alterations

Previous work on chimneys may not have been completed correctly. Common issues include incorrectly sized flues, missing connections, or inappropriate materials. A CCTV survey documents these problems.

Understanding Your CCTV Inspection Report

If you choose our full written report (£100), you'll receive a comprehensive document including:

• Property Details: Address, inspection date, inspector name
• Chimney Description: Type, construction, approximate age
• Findings: Detailed description of condition throughout the chimney
• Photographic Evidence: High-resolution images from the camera showing key areas and any issues
• Severity Assessment: Clear indication of whether issues are minor, moderate, or serious
• Recommendations: Professional advice on what action (if any) is needed
• Summary: Overall assessment of chimney condition

Should You Have the Chimney Swept First?

In most cases, yes. A clean chimney allows the camera to see the flue structure much more clearly. Heavy soot deposits can obscure cracks, damage, or other issues.

We recommend booking a chimney sweep and CCTV inspection together for the most thorough assessment. You can add a CCTV inspection when booking your sweep online.

What Happens After the Inspection?

Depending on our findings, we'll provide recommendations which may include:

• No Action Needed: Chimney in good condition, safe to use
• Minor Maintenance: Small repairs or preventative work recommended
• Further Investigation: Specialist assessment required (structural engineer, roofer, etc.)
• Repairs Needed: Specific work required - we can advise on options and likely costs
• Do Not Use: In rare cases, serious issues may mean the chimney should not be used until repaired

We'll always be clear about the urgency and importance of any recommendations. Not all issues require immediate action, and we'll help you prioritise based on safety and budget.

Why Choose Soot Happens for CCTV Inspections?

• Professional Equipment: High-resolution chimney cameras with excellent lighting
• Experienced Assessment: We know what to look for and how to interpret what we see
• Clear Reporting: Plain English explanations without unnecessary jargon
• Honest Advice: We'll tell you what you need to know, not what we think you want to hear
• Flexible Options: Choose verbal or written report based on your needs
• ICS Registered: Professional standards and expertise
• Fully Insured: £1 million public liability insurance