Chimney Inspection After a Chimney Fire
A chimney fire can happen without anyone noticing, and it can damage the flue in ways you cannot see from the room. An inspection tells you whether the chimney is safe to use again.
Chimney fires are not always dramatic
Some chimney fires are loud and obvious. Others burn off creosote quietly, with little more than a popping sound or a burst of dense smoke, and the homeowner never realizes anything happened. Either way, the heat can crack flue tiles, open joints, warp metal parts and damage the masonry. Using the chimney again before it has been checked risks a worse fire or a leak of smoke and gas into the house.
Signs there may have been one
- Loud cracking or popping from the chimney, or a roaring sound
- Dense smoke or flames from the top of the chimney
- Puffy, honeycombed or flaky creosote left behind
- Cracked or collapsed pieces of flue tile in the firebox
- Warped or discolored metal parts such as the damper or cap
- Discolored or cracked masonry, or roofing near the chimney that has been damaged
What the inspection covers
After a fire we recommend a Level 2 inspection, because the flue interior and the areas around the chimney need to be examined, not just the parts visible from the fireplace. We check:
- The condition of the flue liner, including cracked tiles, open joints and gaps
- The smoke chamber and damper
- Masonry and mortar for heat damage
- Clearance and the condition of nearby framing where it can be seen
- The crown, cap and the top of the chimney
- How much deposit remains in the flue
If we find hazards that cannot be judged without opening something up, we tell you that and explain what a deeper inspection would involve.
What usually comes next
| Finding | Typical next step |
|---|---|
| No damage found | Cleaning the remaining deposits, then normal use |
| Minor damage that can be repaired | Repair of the affected parts, such as liner repair or crack repair |
| A damaged or unsuitable liner | A replacement liner |
| Damage to the structure around the chimney | A closer assessment before anything else is done |
Do not use the fireplace or stove until the chimney has been inspected. If you think there is a fire in progress, call 911 first.
What the work involves
After a chimney fire
- Stay safeDo not use the appliance until it has been checked.
- InspectWe examine the flue and the chimney for heat damage.
- ExplainWe tell you what happened and what it means.
- RepairIf repair is needed, we explain the options.
Related services
Level 2 Chimney Inspection
What the closer inspection covers.
Learn moreChimney Liners
Options when the flue lining is damaged.
Learn moreChimney Sweep & Cleaning
Remove the deposits that cause chimney fires.
Learn moreLevel 3 Inspection
When a hazard cannot be judged without opening up the structure.
Learn moreWe work throughout New Jersey. See our service areas, or browse all services.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the fireplace after a chimney fire?
Not until it has been inspected. The flue may be cracked or damaged in ways that are not visible from the room.
How do I know if I had a chimney fire?
Sometimes you do not. Puffy or honeycombed creosote, cracked flue tiles and warped metal parts are common signs found at inspection.
Will my insurance cover it?
That depends on your policy, and we cannot speak for your insurer. We can explain what we found so that you have a clear account to share with them.
How do I prevent another one?
Regular sweeping, burning dry, seasoned wood and fixing airflow problems. See what creosote is.
Ready to have your chimney looked at?
Call us, or send a scheduling request. We will contact you to confirm a time. Your appointment is not confirmed until we do.