If a chimney fire is actively happening: get everyone out, call 911, and let the fire department handle the immediate response. This page is about what happens after, once the immediate danger has passed and you need to know if it’s safe to use that fireplace again.
Why even a small chimney fire needs a real inspection
The heat from a chimney fire, even a brief one, commonly cracks flue tile, damages liners, and can compromise the smoke chamber structure, none of which is visible by looking up from the firebox with a flashlight. A Level 2 inspection with a full camera scope is the standard response after any chimney fire, no exceptions, because the whole risk is damage you cannot see.
What our response includes
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I actually had a chimney fire?
The clearest signs are a loud roaring, cracking, or popping sound from inside the chimney during use, dense smoke, and a strong hot smell afterward. Some chimney fires are much quieter and are only caught during a later inspection.
Is it safe to use the fireplace again if nothing looks damaged?
We would not recommend it without an inspection first. The most common chimney fire damage, cracked flue tile, is essentially invisible without a camera scope.
Will insurance cover chimney fire damage and inspection?
Often yes, chimney fires are typically covered under standard homeowner’s policies, though you’d want to confirm with your specific insurer. We provide documentation that supports a claim either way.
How urgent is this inspection?
We’d treat it as a priority. Using a damaged flue again before it’s assessed risks a repeat fire or, if the liner is compromised, carbon monoxide or heat transfer into nearby framing.