Stop use; active hazards need emergency help
Smoke in the room
Prepare a clear account of smoke spillage and learn which questions a chimney inspection should answer.
Read the action guide →Start with what you noticed
A clearer path from symptom to appointment.
Smoke, water and odors need different conversations. Use the navigator, then read the action guide that fits your situation.
Every action guide
Arrange a moisture assessment
Leaks or water stains
Track rain, wind and snowmelt patterns before comparing chimney leak repair proposals.
Read the action guide →Gas or CO concerns need emergency help
Sooty or musty odors
Record chimney odor timing, moisture and use history to prepare for a professional evaluation.
Read the action guide →
Keep the appliance out of use
Debris or animal sounds
Learn what to record before arranging an obstruction assessment, wildlife help or chimney cap work.
Read the action guide →Active fire: leave and call emergency services
After a chimney fire
What to record and ask after emergency responders have addressed a suspected chimney fire.
Read the action guide →
Plan before your inspection deadline
Buying a home
Prepare chimney inspection questions for a home purchase, unknown service history or changed appliance.
Read the action guide →Arrange assessment; active hazards need emergency help
Visible masonry damage
Loose fragments, displaced bricks or deteriorated joints can affect more than appearance. A professional should establish the extent and whether the structure or adjoining components need further assessment.
Read the action guide →Arrange assessment; active hazards need emergency help
Cracked crown
A crown protects the top of masonry around the flue openings. Cracking can be one possible pathway for water, but a visible line in a photograph does not establish the depth, extent or correct repair.
Read the action guide →Arrange assessment; active hazards need emergency help
Missing or damaged cap
Different appliances and chimney systems use different termination components. A generic cap should not be fitted solely because it appears to cover the opening. Compatibility, condition and access need assessment.
Read the action guide →Arrange assessment; active hazards need emergency help
Poor draft
An apparent draft change can involve the appliance, vent path, obstruction, deposits or building pressure. It is a symptom description, not a diagnosis. Avoid repeated test fires to narrow down the cause.
Read the action guide →
Arrange assessment; active hazards need emergency help
Excessive soot
Loose soot and hard glazed deposits may need different removal methods. A homeowner cannot establish the full flue condition from the hearth. Ask the contractor to show where the concern is and explain the proposed approach.
Read the action guide →