Straight answers for the moments that matter
Buying a house with a fireplace, dealing with a chimney fire, or holding a big quote — here’s what to know.
What “recommend further evaluation” really means
A general home inspector looks at what’s readily visible: the chimney exterior, the firebox, maybe the view up from the damper. They usually can’t see inside the flue, so the report says to have a chimney professional evaluate it.
That note isn’t a verdict either way. It means nobody has looked at the part that matters most yet.
NFPA 211 calls for a Level II inspection when a property is sold or transferred. That covers everything in a routine check plus the accessible attic, crawl space and basement, and a camera scan of the flue.
NFPA 211 §15.4.1(3), §15.4.2
Buyer’s checklist
- Book it inside your inspection window. Camera scans can take a few days to schedule in fall.
- Ask the seller when it was last swept and inspected, what was burned, and about any past chimney fires or gas conversions.
- Get photos or video with the report, so you’re negotiating on what’s actually there.
- Sort the findings: a hazard is worth negotiating over; “differs from current standard” on an older house often isn’t a defect at all.
- Get a second opinion on a big liner or rebuild quote before it becomes a price cut or a repair credit.
During, after, and before you use it again
Signs of a fire happening now
- Loud cracking and popping in the chimney
- A roar like a train or low-flying plane
- Thick smoke, or flames or sparks from the top
- A strong, hot smell
Get everyone out and call 911. Don’t go on the roof.
Signs you may have had one
- Puffy, honeycombed creosote
- Warped damper or other metal parts
- Cracked or missing pieces of flue tile
- Distorted or discolored chimney cap
- Creosote flakes on the roof or ground
- Cracks in the masonry, or smoke leaking through joints
Slow chimney fires often go unnoticed until someone looks inside.
Before you burn again
- A Level II inspection with a camera scan is called for after a chimney fire.
- If damage can’t be judged without opening walls, that part goes to Level III.
- Take photos and keep the written report — it helps if you file an insurance claim.
- Prevent the next one: burn dry, seasoned wood, sweep regularly, and use a flue sized for the appliance.
NFPA 211 §15.4.1(4), §15.5.2
Questions to ask about any chimney recommendation
Hold any company’s quote up to these — including ours. A good recommendation answers every one of them without pressure.
- Did they show you the problem? Photos or video of the specific crack, gap, missing mortar or damage.
- Is it a hazard, a deficiency, or just different? “Doesn’t meet current code” on an older chimney isn’t the same as unsafe. NFPA 211 isn’t retroactive unless there’s a real hazard.
- What code section, and which edition? A real code issue can be pointed to.
- Does the size make sense? Check it against your stove collar or fireplace opening with our liner sizing calculator.
- Which liner, which insulation, and which manual? Ask for the brand, model and installation manual. Make sure the insulation is listed for your chimney’s clearance situation and that a protective mesh goes over any wrap.
- Is there a smaller fix? Replacing a few tiles, parging the smoke chamber, or reducing a fireplace opening can sometimes solve it.
- Whose warranty, and what voids it? Lifetime liner warranties usually depend on installation per the manual.
- Is a permit needed? Ask whether your city requires one for the work.
- Are you being rushed? “Don’t use it until we reline” should come with a hazard you can see.
Want a second opinion?
Send the quote and any photos to 612-402-9249. We’ll tell you whether it makes sense — including when it does.
See also: our inspection approach and the clearance guide.