A chimney inspection checklist should include checking the interior and exterior of your chimney, its flashing, cap, and crown, damper, and other points, such as strange odors and noises coming from it, and even branches close to your roof and chimney.
While we do not recommend inspecting your chimney solely by yourself, it is valuable to use this checklist to help professional chimney inspectors identify any issues faster once they arrive.
1. Is Your Chimney Odor-Free?
Certain odors in your chimney can be giveaways to potential issues. One of the common causes of chimney odor is creosote.
Creosote is a byproduct of smoke and is generated each time you use your fireplace. Creosote smells like tar, even in small quantities. It is typically a fairly pungent smell. Creosote build-up is dangerous and a good indicator that your chimney hasn’t been cleaned recently.
Another culprit that can cause chimney odors is mold. Not only can mold cause your chimney to smell, but musty mold smells can permeate through your whole home if left too long. Mold needs moisture to grow, so it stands to reason that chimneys with mold suggest water intrusion or leaks.
Finally, live animals can bring a menagerie of odors. However, so can dead ones. Animal odors in your chimney aren’t just gross, they suggest your chimney cap needs to be repaired or replaced.
2. Is Your Chimney Protected from Intruders?
Anything coming into the chimney from the outside indicates a flaw with, or absence of, a chimney cap., so looking for signs of foreign objects is something else to add to your chimney inspection checklist.
Make sure to examine your fireplace for debris like twigs or leaves that may be coming down your chimney. Trash is another thing that windy days can bring into your chimney.
Then there are animals. Yes, this bears repeating, because plenty of animals will find an open chimney to be a great nesting spot. Keep an eye (and an ear) open for signs.
3. Is Your Chimney Operating Safely?
There are many scenarios that can lead to a chimney being at-risk, leaving your home vulnerable and your health in danger. Include the following safety-related items in your inspection checklist:
1. Ventilation - Check to see that your chimney is allowing for good airflow and escape for smoke. When ventilation is compromised, carbon monoxide (CO) can build up. Unlike smoke, carbon monoxide is odorless and invisible, so you can’t tell when it is building up in your home. Carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious risk and can result from improper ventilation.
2. Proper airflow - Puff-backs indicate an issue with airflow in your home and chimney, and they are a potential fire hazard. It may seem like just a nuisance, but smoke puffing back into your home can be caused by many different issues. Each case is unique, and if you have verified that your damper is open and in working order and still have puff-backs, schedule a professional inspection as soon as possible.
3. Fireplace Door - Operating your fireplace without the proper equipment is dangerous, and the door of your fireplace is a key piece of equipment. If you can’t close the door or if it’s damaged, it’s time to replace the door.
4. Is the Exterior of Your Chimney in Good Condition?
Bricks and mortar won’t last forever. Over time, there is wear from the effects of the weather, like freezing and thawing, therefore, the masonry for chimneys will eventually need repairs or replacement.
Cracks or breaks in masonry could be a fire hazard, however typically water entry around the chimney is the main issue. Water absorbs into masonry already, and cracks through the crown or brickwork can allow water in faster. So checking the masonry is another item to add to your chimney inspection checklist.
5. Is the Interior of Your Chimney in Good Condition?
Look inside your fireplace and into your chimney. If you notice visible cracks, loose bricks, or signs of deterioration, these could indicate structural issues or damage.
However, it’s common not to see much from ground level without specialized tools. That’s why professional services like Doctor Flue use specialized camera inspection tools to identify risks in areas most homeowners can’t see on their own.
Take a look at our chimney inspection services to see what kind of devices we use to inspect the chimneys of our clients.
6. Are Your Chimney Cap & Crown in Good Condition?
As we discussed before, chimney caps play a vital role in protecting your chimney from weather, debris, and unwanted animals. Take a moment to visually inspect the top of your chimney, look for any signs of rust, cracks, or damage.
7. Is Your Chimney Flashing in Good Condition?
Chimney flashing is the metal seal that bridges the gap between your chimney and the roof, helping to prevent water from seeping into your home. While flashing is designed to be durable, it can wear down over time due to weather exposure.
Things to check include a warped, bent, or loosened chimney flashing.
8. Can You Hear a Strange Noise Coming From Your Chimney?
Unusual sounds coming from your chimney can be a warning sign of serious issues that require immediate attention.
For example, loud cracking or popping noises may indicate a chimney fire. Some homeowners describe these sounds to be as loud as train or airplane noises.
Other noises, such as dripping water or the sound of animals moving, entering, or exiting the chimney, can signal water intrusion or wildlife infestations.
9. Are There Large Deposits of Creosote in Your Chimney Flue?
You may be able to spot creosote by looking for hard, black, tar-like flakes inside your chimney. If you notice a significant accumulation, it’s important to call a chimney cleaning professional immediately.
However, if you can’t see any buildup or aren’t sure what you’re looking at, it’s best to leave the inspection to experts like Doctor Flue, who use specialized tools to identify and remove creosote safely.
10. Are There Any Tree Branches Close to Your Chimney or Roof?
Tree branches that hang too close to your chimney or roof can pose several risks. Without a chimney cap, they can drop leaves and debris into the chimney, increasing the chance of blockages or fires. Overhanging branches also provide easy access for animals trying to enter your chimney.
Additionally, strong winds or storms could cause branches to break and damage the chimney structure. Make sure to regularly check for and trim back any nearby tree branches.
11. Is There a Large Volume of Ash Leftovers?
A buildup of ash at the base of your fireplace can lead to problems over time. Ash is highly acidic and can corrode the bottom of your firebox, potentially causing damage and making it more difficult to build efficient fires in the future. Be sure to remove excess ash regularly, leaving only a thin layer if needed to help with insulation.
For more detailed guidance, visit our article on Fireplace Ashes.
12. Do Your Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors Need New Batteries?
As we mentioned, when your chimney’s ventilation is compromised, dangerous gases like carbon monoxide can accumulate in your home.
In fact, in 2023, about 82,000 CO-related incidents that required a response from local fire departments occurred. To reduce this risk, regularly check that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have fresh batteries. In addition, make sure to note the replacement date.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for battery type, replacement intervals, and overall maintenance. The NFPA recommends testing these detectors monthly.
13. Is Your Damper Working Properly?
Your chimney damper plays an important role in controlling airflow. Make sure it opens and closes smoothly and forms a tight seal when shut. A properly functioning damper prevents cold air from entering your home when the fireplace is not in use. If the damper is difficult to operate or doesn't seal properly, it may need to be repaired or replaced.
14. Are Your Firebox & Grate in Good Condition?
A compromised firebox can allow flames or heat to reach nearby building materials, increasing the risk of fire. Similarly, a sturdy fireplace grate keeps burning wood securely in place. Check both for signs of cracks, corrosion, or other damage.
15. Do You Have Firewood Stored for the Winter?
If you rely on your fireplace for warmth or comfort during the colder months, storing firewood in an accessible location will help you stay prepared when temperatures drop.
16. Does Your Chimney Meet Fire Safety Standards?
Determining compliance with these standards can be challenging for homeowners without specialized training. That’s why it’s best to rely on a certified professional, like those at Doctor Flue, who have the expertise and credentials to assess your chimney and fireplace according to the latest fire safety guidelines and recommend any necessary improvements.
More Information About Chimney Inspections
Understanding what a chimney inspection involves can help you prepare for your professional chimney inspection.
Benefits & Importance of a Chimney Inspection
A professional chimney inspection offers several key advantages that go beyond just peace of mind:
- Safety: Identifies fire hazards like creosote buildup, structural damage, or ventilation issues.
- Performance: Ensures your chimney and fireplace operate efficiently, optimizing energy usage.
- Cost-Effective Maintenance: Catches small issues early before they become costly repairs.
- Prolonged Lifespan: Helps maintain the structural integrity of your chimney over time.
How Do Chimney Inspections Work?
Chimney inspection methods can vary between service providers, but at Doctor Flue, the process is tailored to your specific fireplace type.
For wood-burning chimneys, we inspect the exterior and use internal video scanning to check for structural issues, safety hazards, and combustible deposits.
For gas-burning systems, we conduct a detailed 17-point safety check of both the interior and exterior of the flue system to identify any potential risks.
After the inspection, we’ll go over our findings with you, answer any questions, and provide a detailed evaluation summary via email.
Levels of Chimney Inspection
Chimney inspections are categorized into three levels, each varying in scope and depth based on the condition and use of your chimney:
- Level 1: A basic inspection of easily accessible areas of the chimney’s interior and exterior, using minimal tools. Ideal for routine maintenance, it helps identify common safety risks.
- Level 2: The most commonly recommended inspection. It includes everything in a level 1 inspection, plus some additional steps. A level 2 inspection is usually required when you make any changes to your fireplace or chimney, transfer a property to someone, or have an operating malfunction.
- Level 3: Reserved for serious concerns, this inspection may require removing or dismantling parts of the chimney or surrounding structure to investigate possible major damage or hazards.
To learn more, visit our article on Chimney Inspection Levels.
How Much Should a Chimney Inspection Cost?
The cost of a chimney inspection can vary depending on several factors, including your location, the condition of your chimney, and the service provider you choose. More thorough inspections, like Level 2 or Level 3, may come at a higher cost due to the additional time, tools, and expertise required. It's best to request a quote from a trusted provider like Doctor Flue to get an accurate estimate.
How Often Should a Chimney Be Inspected?
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), chimneys, fireplaces, and vents should be inspected at least once a year. Regular inspections help ensure your system is safe, operating efficiently, and free of any damage or buildup that could pose a fire or health risk.
DIY vs. Professional Inspections
Thinking about inspecting your chimney yourself? While a DIY check can help you spot obvious surface issues, professional inspectors are highly trained in current safety standards and techniques.
They use advanced tools, like video inspection systems, to thoroughly examine both the interior and exterior of your chimney. With their experience, they can identify problems early, helping you avoid costly repairs or serious safety risks.
Although hiring a professional may seem like an added expense, it’s often suggested by insurance companies and can save you money by preventing damage or even a potential fire.
Download Our Chimney Inspection Checklist!
Download the image below to have our chimney inspection checklist readily available when you need it. We insist on using this checklist to understand what possible issues your chimney might have, so that you can help the chimney inspectors know what to expect when they arrive.
Schedule Professional Inspection Today!
With over 35 years of experience serving homeowners across Michigan and Ohio, our team at Doctor Flue is dedicated to keeping your chimney and fireplace systems safe, efficient, and well-maintained.
Don’t wait for problems to appear, give us a call today at (800) 438-3583 or contact us online to request a quote!
Call Us: 1-800-438-3583
Email Us: office@drflue.com
Office Hours: Mon-Fri: 8am-4pm
Connect with Doctor Flue on Social Media