What Inspectors Look for in Fireplaces and Chimneys in Atlanta

Description: Learn what home inspectors check in fireplaces and chimneys in Atlanta homes. Discover why third-party cleaning and maintenance is always recommended.

Introduction:

Whether it’s the crackling sound of wood on a winter night or just an added resale bonus, fireplaces are often seen as cozy assets in Atlanta homes. But what many homebuyers—and even some homeowners—don’t realize is how much of a liability fireplaces and chimneys can be when they're not properly maintained.

As a Marietta home inspector serving Atlanta and surrounding suburbs like Roswell, Decatur, and Kennesaw, I’ve seen everything from minor soot buildup to full-blown structural fire hazards hidden inside chimneys. It’s one area of the home inspection that deserves more attention—and usually gets overlooked.

In this post, we’ll go over exactly what inspectors look for in Atlanta-area fireplace and chimney systems, and why we always recommend hiring a certified third-party chimney sweep for cleaning and evaluation.

What Home Inspectors Check in Fireplaces and Chimneys

While home inspections are non-invasive, there’s still plenty we can learn with a visual assessment:

1. Firebox Condition

• Inspect for cracks in brick or panels

• Check for warped metal components in prefab units

• Examine for excessive soot or creosote buildup

2. Damper Functionality

• Does it open and close fully?

• Is it rusted or stuck?

3. Flue Visibility and Damage

• Limited scope due to visibility—but we note blockages, nesting, or missing liners if seen

• Look for signs of downdrafts, improper venting

4. Chimney Cap and Crown

• Damaged or missing chimney caps allow water, animals, and debris inside

• Cracked crowns or deteriorated mortar can lead to moisture intrusion and structural damage

5. Clearance to Combustibles

• Mantelpiece too close to firebox?

• Flammable finishes or materials on surround?

6. Smoke Stains and Water Damage

• Interior walls or ceiling discoloration near chimneys is a red flag

• Moisture entry can corrode metal and degrade structural materials

What We DON’T Do—and Why That Matters

A home inspection is not a chimney sweep. We don’t run cameras up the flue or scrape out creosote. That’s why we always recommend a third-party cleaning and inspection by a certified chimney company.

Professional chimney companies will:

• Use camera scopes to inspect the entire flue

• Clean dangerous creosote that can spark chimney fires

• Check structural integrity of the liner and venting

• Confirm compliance with NFPA 211 and Georgia state safety codes

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):

“Chimneys, fireplaces, and vents shall be inspected at least once a year.”

This is especially important in Atlanta’s humid climate, where chimney caps and crowns deteriorate more quickly.

Georgia Building Code Notes

In Georgia, residential fireplaces and chimneys must meet specific construction and safety standards under the International Residential Code (IRC) as adopted by the state:

• R1001.11: Chimneys must have a cap or spark arrestor

• R1001.6: Clay liner or other approved flue liner required

• R1001.10: Clearances from combustibles must be maintained

When inspecting homes, we evaluate visually against these standards, but a Level II chimney inspection by a CSIA-certified professional is often necessary for full compliance.

Real-World Example: A Close Call in Roswell

Last winter in Roswell, I inspected a home with a beautiful masonry fireplace. Everything looked fine—until I opened the damper. It was rusted shut. Water had been leaking in for months from a missing chimney cap. There was mold inside the firebox and deterioration in the flue liner.

The buyer ended up hiring a chimney sweep who found the liner was completely cracked—an immediate fire hazard. That third-party report gave them the leverage to negotiate a $7,500 repair credit.

Moral of the story: the fireplace may be charming, but if it hasn’t been inspected properly, it could be a dangerous money pit.

FAQs: Fireplace and Chimney Inspections in Atlanta

Q: Is chimney cleaning part of the home inspection? A: No. We recommend hiring a certified chimney sweep.

Q: How often should chimneys be cleaned in Georgia? A: The NFPA recommends annually, especially if the fireplace is used regularly.

Q: Can water leaks really come from chimneys? A: Absolutely. Atlanta’s rainfall and humidity accelerate masonry deterioration.

Q: Should I skip a chimney check if it’s gas, not wood-burning? A: No. Gas fireplaces can still have blocked vents or corroded components.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let a Fireplace Fool You

Fireplaces are gorgeous features, but if you’re buying a home in the Atlanta metro area, don’t assume that beautiful brick hearth is safe and sound. Even if everything looks okay, there may be dangerous flaws hidden within.

As your trusted Marietta home inspector, I’ll give you a thorough fireplace and chimney assessment, and I’ll always recommend a certified chimney cleaning for peace of mind.

Need a fireplace and chimney inspection in Atlanta or the suburbs? Visit www.reynoldshomeandpropertysolutions.com to schedule your home inspection today.