Learn exactly what to do before your chimney inspection with this complete step-by-step guide. Ensure your home is safe and your fireplace ready for winter.

What to Do Before Your Chimney Inspection

A chimney inspection might not seem like a big deal—until it is. Whether you're prepping for the cold season or finalizing a home sale, taking the right steps before your chimney inspection ensures accuracy, saves time, and improves your home's safety. This guide gives you a full breakdown of what to do before your chimney inspection and how to set your fireplace up for success.

Introduction to Chimney Inspections

Chimney inspections are more than just routine tasks; they're vital for keeping your home and family safe. Over time, chimneys can accumulate creosote, suffer structural damage, or develop airflow issues. An inspection identifies these problems before they escalate into fire hazards or costly repairs.


Certified chimney professionals use specialized tools to assess both the visible and hidden components of your chimney system. Proper preparation makes their job easier—and your home safer.


Why Chimney Maintenance Matters

Fireplace-related house fires cause thousands of incidents each year. Most of them could be avoided with regular chimney maintenance and inspection. A well-maintained chimney ensures:

  • Safe exhaust of smoke and gases
  • Prevention of chimney fires
  • Reduced risk of carbon monoxide buildup
  • Improved energy efficiency
  • Long-term durability of your heating system


That’s why chimney inspections aren’t optional—they’re essential.


Types of Chimney Inspections

Understanding the type of inspection scheduled helps you prepare appropriately:

  • Level 1 Inspection: A basic check for chimneys in good condition with no recent changes.
  • Level 2 Inspection: Required after changes like fuel type conversions, real estate sales, or chimney fires.
  • Level 3 Inspection: In-depth analysis involving removal of parts of the structure if hidden hazards are suspected.


Your chimney service professional will let you know which type is necessary, but preparing well helps no matter the level.


When Should You Schedule a Chimney Inspection?

Here’s when you should definitely consider booking an inspection:

  • Before winter: Prepare for heavy fireplace usage
  • After a chimney fire or lightning strike
  • When buying or selling a home
  • If you notice smoke entering the room
  • After a remodeling project involving your fireplace


Annual inspections are best—even if you rarely use your fireplace.


Benefits of a Pre-Inspection Checklist

Think of it as setting the stage for your inspector. When you do some of the prep work, your technician can focus on identifying and fixing problems. Prepping also ensures:

  • Faster, smoother inspections
  • Fewer surprises
  • Better communication with the inspector
  • Increased accuracy in diagnosis


And the best part? It only takes a little bit of time.


Clear the Area Around Your Fireplace

Remove any furniture, decorations, firewood, or rugs within a 3–5 foot radius of the fireplace. This gives the technician space to maneuver equipment, place drop cloths, and safely inspect the firebox and surrounding area. It also protects your belongings from dust and soot.


A clean workspace makes everyone’s life easier—and much safer.


Remove Ash and Debris from Fireplace

If your fireplace has leftover ash or charred wood, go ahead and clear it out. Use a metal shovel and bucket to safely remove cooled ash. Doing this allows the inspector to clearly see the fireplace interior, identify cracks, and spot buildup that may require cleaning.


Just remember: never vacuum ash, and always wait at least 24 hours after your last fire.


Ensure Proper Ventilation

Ventilation affects how well your fireplace operates and how safely it vents smoke. Check that all flues and vents are accessible and not obstructed by insulation, debris, or nesting animals. Open nearby windows slightly to allow air circulation during inspection day—especially if smoke testing will occur.


This step supports both your safety and the accuracy of inspection results.




Secure Your Pets and Children

Chimney inspections involve ladders, tools, and sometimes loud noises. For safety and focus, keep pets and kids in a different room. Curious children or pets could trip the technician or come into contact with hazardous materials like creosote.


Create a calm environment so the work gets done quickly and safely.


Take Note of Unusual Fireplace Behavior

Before the inspector arrives, jot down any odd signs you’ve noticed, like:

  • Strange smells (burnt, moldy, or musty)
  • Smoke backing up into the room
  • Excessive soot or discoloration
  • Crumbling bricks or falling debris


Sharing this info helps the technician pinpoint problems faster. Consider these red flags as early warning signs.


Gather Documentation and Service Records

If you’ve had past chimney cleanings or repairs, have that paperwork ready. Documentation shows your commitment to maintenance and helps identify recurring issues. It may also affect whether certain repairs are covered by insurance.


Include any:

  • Repair invoices
  • Warranties
  • Photos of past damage
  • Insurance claims


It saves guesswork and time during the evaluation.


Test Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

These devices are your first line of defense if something goes wrong. Make sure they’re working properly and have fresh batteries. Although not part of the chimney inspection, they work hand-in-hand with fireplace safety.


If you don’t have a carbon monoxide detector near your fireplace, now is the time to install one.


Check for Visible Exterior Damage

Take a walk around your house and inspect the chimney stack. Look for:

  • Cracked or missing mortar
  • Leaning or tilting structure
  • Water stains or rust marks
  • Cracked crown or cap


Take pictures to show the technician if access is difficult. Sometimes, visible issues point to deeper internal problems.


Know What Questions to Ask the Chimney Inspector

Empowered homeowners get better results. Before your inspection, consider asking:

  • How severe is the buildup or damage?
  • What maintenance is urgently needed?
  • How often should I schedule future inspections?
  • Is there any waterproofing or sealing required?
  • Do I need a chimney cap or liner?


Take notes! You’re paying for expert advice—don’t let it go to waste.


What to Expect During the Inspection

During the appointment, the inspector will use lights, mirrors, or cameras to assess your chimney. Depending on the inspection level, this may include:

  • Looking for cracks, blockages, and creosote buildup
  • Checking the flue, damper, and smoke chamber
  • Reviewing the chimney crown, flashing, and exterior stack


Most inspections last between 30 minutes and 2 hours. Expect a full report with findings and recommendations.


Post-Inspection Follow-Up

After the inspection, review your report carefully. Understand what actions are urgent and which can wait. If repairs are needed, get them scheduled promptly—especially if you're entering the colder seasons.


Your chimney service provider should offer clear guidance, repair estimates, and possible maintenance plans.


How to Choose a Trusted Chimney Service

Choosing the right team for the job makes all the difference. Look for certifications, years in business, and local reviews. We highly recommend starting with Portland Chimney Service for trusted, reliable, and professional chimney care.


Contact a Certified Chimney Professional

Ready to book your inspection or get questions answered? Don’t hesitate—Contact Portland Chimney Service today for expert chimney care in your area.


FAQs

How often should chimneys be inspected?
Once a year is standard, even if you don’t use your fireplace often.


Can I clean my chimney myself before inspection?
You can remove ash and debris, but deeper cleaning requires professional tools and experience.


How long does a chimney inspection take?
Typically 30–90 minutes, depending on the level and condition.


What are common chimney inspection findings?
Creosote buildup, cracked flue liners, loose bricks, and animal nests.


Should I be home during the inspection?
Yes, it's best to be present to answer questions and understand the results.


Is chimney inspection covered by homeowners insurance?
Usually not, unless tied to a covered event like a fire or storm damage.


Conclusion

Knowing what to do before your chimney inspection can turn a stressful event into a simple, productive appointment. With a little preparation and a lot of common sense, you’ll protect your home, save money, and enjoy a safer, more efficient fireplace. Whether you're a new homeowner or a seasoned pro, regular chimney care is one habit that always pays off.


Need help? Reach out to Portland Chimney Service—the experts you can trust.


Links

Stop Letting the Rain Eat Your House: The Brutal Truth About Chimney Waterproofing

By John Constantine • February 4, 2026
Your chimney is a giant, vertical sponge. It sits on your roof, exposed to the elements, absorbing every drop of rain that hits its surface. Most homeowners assume that because brick is hard, it is also waterproof. That is a dangerous mistake. Brick is porous. Mortar is even more porous. Without a professional barrier, your chimney is slowly dissolving, one rainstorm at a time. If you ignore this, you aren't just looking at a drafty fireplace; you are looking at a structural failure that can cost tens of thousands of dollars to repair. 

The Freeze-Thaw Threat: Why Portland Homeowners Need Winter Chimney Waterproofing Now

By John Constantine • January 28, 2026
The wind coming off Casco Bay in January doesn't just cut through your coat. It attacks your masonry. If you own a home in Portland, specifically in the 04101 zip code or the historic West End, you know the drill. Rain turns to sleet, sleet turns to snow, and then it all melts and freezes again. It’s a brutal cycle. Most homeowners ignore their chimney until a brick lands on the patio. By then, it’s too late. The damage is done. Your chimney isn't just a smoke exhaust; it's a structural engine that keeps your home safe. But without professional intervention, Maine’s winter moisture will destroy it from the inside out. This isn't about aesthetics. It's about structural integrity. Here is why securing a professional chimney service for waterproofing is the smartest investment you can make this season.

Stainless Steel Chimney Liners in Portland, ME: Protection, Performance, and Peace of Mind

By John Constantine • January 21, 2026
Your chimney is the most dangerous part of your Portland home. That sounds like hyperbole, but if you live in a classic New England Victorian or a colonial-style house near the Back Cove, it’s a cold hard fact. For decades, chimneys in Maine were built with clay tile liners or, worse, no liners at all. These systems were never designed to handle the high-efficiency demands of modern heating appliances or the biting, salt-heavy humidity of Casco Bay. If your flue is cracked, crumbling, or unlined, you aren't just losing heat. You are risking a structure fire or carbon monoxide poisoning every time you strike a match. It’s that simple.  Upgrading to Stainless Steel Chimney Liners is no longer a luxury for Portland homeowners; it is a fundamental requirement for home safety and efficiency. At Portland Chimney Service, we see the aftermath of neglect every winter. We see the soot-stained bricks and the frightening internal cracks that a standard flashlight can’t find. As the premier local chimney expert , we know that a high-quality metal liner is the only way to truly "future-proof" your hearth. If you want to see how we handle these critical upgrades, you should visit Our Homepage to see our commitment to the Greater Portland area.

Portland Winter Chimney Care: Why Your Inspection Can’t Wait

By John Constantine • January 17, 2026
The wind screams off Casco Bay in January. It carries a bite that cuts through the thickest wool. Inside your Portland home, the hearth is the heartbeat of the house. You stack the seasoned oak, strike a match, and wait for that familiar amber glow. But behind the brick and mortar, a silent threat might be brewing. Most homeowners assume if the smoke goes up, the system is fine. That assumption is dangerous. In Maine, our winters don't just test our patience; they dismantle our masonry. Chimney service isn't a luxury. It is a fundamental requirement for coastal living. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 211 standards are clear: every chimney, fireplace, and vent needs an annual inspection. This isn't just about sweeping away soot. It’s about structural integrity. In Portland, our chimneys face a unique enemy: the freeze-thaw cycle. When freezing rain hits your brickwork, moisture seeps into the porous surface. Then it freezes. Water expands by roughly 9% when it turns to ice. This microscopic expansion acts like a slow-motion jackhammer, widening cracks and popping the faces off your bricks—a process known as spalling. If you haven't had a professional look at your stack this season, you're playing a high-stakes game with the Atlantic elements.

Stop the Drip: Why Chimney Waterproofing is the Ultimate Shield for Portland, Maine Homes

By John Constantine • January 14, 2026
Maine winters are mean. They don't just bring snow; they bring a relentless cycle of ice expansion that treats your brickwork like a stress ball. If you live in the Greater Portland area, your chimney isn't just an architectural feature. It is a porous, vertical sponge standing in the direct line of fire of Nor’easters and coastal humidity. Every year, homeowners across Cumberland County wake up to damp fireboxes or "spalling"—those chunks of red brick littering the lawn like debris from a slow-motion explosion. This isn't just a cosmetic annoyance. It is a structural SOS.

Ice Dams and Soot: The Portland Homeowner’s Guide to Winter Chimney & Gutter Survival

By John Constantine • January 13, 2026
The wind whipping off Casco Bay doesn’t care about your schedule. If you live in the West End or own a triple-decker on Munjoy Hill, you know the drill. Winter in Portland isn't just a season; it’s a structural stress test for your home. While you’re stocking up on wood pellets and coffee brandy, your chimney and gutters are sitting ducks for the freeze-thaw cycle that defines Maine winters. Most folks wait until there is smoke pouring into their living room or an icicle the size of a harpoon hanging off the eaves before they call a professional. Don't be that person. Negligence is expensive. Let’s talk about why your chimney and gutters are the first line of defense against a 04101 winter, and why Portland Chimney Service is the only crew you want on your roof when the mercury drops.

Keeping Portland Warm: The No-Nonsense Guide to Maine Chimney Services

By John Constantine • January 13, 2026
Maine winters don't play games. When a Nor'easter rolls off the Atlantic and hammers the Casco Bay, your fireplace isn't just a cozy aesthetic choice—it is a lifeline. But that brick-and-mortar tower rising from your roof is under constant assault. Between the salt air of the Old Port and the brutal freeze-thaw cycles of the Cumberland County winters, your chimney is likely the most neglected part of your home’s infrastructure. Ignoring it is a gamble you won't win. Most homeowners assume a quick glance at the hearth is enough. It isn't. Effective chimney care requires more than a casual check; it demands a technical understanding of masonry, combustion physics, and Maine’s specific climate challenges. Whether you need a routine chimney sweep portland maine residents can trust or a full-scale structural rebuild, understanding the "why" behind the service is the first step toward a safe, warm winter.

Why Regular Chimney Inspections Are Essential for Home Safety

By John Constantine • January 5, 2026
There is nothing quite like the crackle of a warm fire on a chilly evening. It is the heart of the home, providing a sense of comfort and nostalgia that modern heating systems simply cannot replicate. However, that cozy ambiance comes with a significant responsibility. Behind the brick and mortar of your fireplace lies a complex venting system that, if neglected, can become a serious hazard to your property and your family. At Portland Chimney Service , we have spent over 35 years ensuring that homeowners can enjoy their hearths without fear. In this guide, we will explore why regular chimney inspections are not just a recommendation—they are a critical pillar of home safety.

Don't Wait for Disaster: Schedule Chimney Services Before Costly Damage Occurs

By John Constantine • January 2, 2026
As the heart of many homes, a fireplace provides warmth, comfort, and a cozy ambiance. However, without proper care, your chimney can become a significant safety hazard, leading to devastating house fires and expensive structural damage. Proactive maintenance is not just a recommendation; it's an essential step to protect your home and family. Here at Portland Chimney Service, we believe that understanding the risks and recognizing the warning signs are the first steps toward responsible fireplace ownership.

Chimney Demolition Explained: Safe Removal of Unstable and Dangerous Structures

By John Constantine • December 27, 2025
A chimney is often seen as the heart of a home—a symbol of warmth, comfort, and tradition. But what happens when this iconic structure becomes a liability? Over time, exposure to the elements, seismic activity, or simple neglect can turn a once-sturdy chimney into an unstable and dangerous hazard. When repairs are no longer a viable option, professional demolition becomes a necessary step to protect your home and family. This comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know about the chimney demolition process.  Here at Portland Chimney Service , we understand that removing a part of your home is a big decision. Our goal is to provide clarity and expertise, ensuring the process is handled with the utmost safety and professionalism.