Chimney fires and lightning strikes can both damage a chimney in ways that are not obvious from inside the house. Here is what to do, in order.
First: get everyone out
If you think a chimney fire is happening right now (a loud roaring or popping sound, dense smoke, flames or sparks shooting from the top, or a strong hot smell), get everyone out of the house and call 911. Do not try to put it out from the roof.
Signs a chimney fire already happened
Many chimney fires are slow-burning and go unnoticed. Possible signs afterward include:
- Puffy, honeycombed creosote in the flue or firebox
- A warped damper or metal components
- Cracked or collapsed flue tiles, or pieces of tile in the firebox
- Discolored or distorted chimney cap or rain cap
- Creosote flakes on the roof or ground
- Damaged roofing material near the chimney, or cracks in exterior masonry
Signs of lightning or storm damage
- Loose, displaced or missing bricks, or brick debris on the roof or ground
- A cracked crown or a cap that has shifted
- Debris, mortar or tile pieces in the firebox
- New cracks in the chimney or in interior walls near it
- Scorch marks or damaged flashing
Stop using the fireplace until it is inspected
A damaged flue liner may not contain heat and combustion gases the way it should. NFPA 211 calls for a Level 2 inspection, which includes a video scan of the flue, after a chimney fire or an external event like lightning or a severe storm. Do not light another fire until you know the system is sound.
Documenting damage for insurance
Coverage varies by policy, so read yours and talk to your insurer. In general, these steps help:
- Write down the date and what happened, including the storm or event if you know it.
- Take photos of anything visible from the ground and inside: debris, cracks, stains.
- Contact your insurance company promptly and ask how they want the claim handled.
- Get a written inspection report with photos and video. Clear documentation of the flue and exterior helps everyone understand what was damaged.
- Prevent further damage if needed (for example, temporary protection against rain), keep receipts, and ask your insurer before making permanent repairs.
Blackburn documents post-fire and post-storm inspections with photos and camera footage you can send directly to your insurer, and itemized repair estimates.