The exterior condition of the chimney:
Are there loose bricks or mortar joints that need replacement or repointing?
Are there cracks in the chimney crown, the top part of the chimney that surrounds the terra cotta tile flue, that could cause water to leak into the chimney or ceiling?
Is the flashing, the aluminum sheet between the chimney and the roof, in good condition and well caulked?
Does the chimney look straight? It should not be 'leaning' to one side. Is it firmly attached to the house?
If there is a cleanout door, is it in good condition? Is the 'ashpit' clean?
Look at the firebox, the actual fireplace:
Are the side walls, back and floor free from cracks or openings in the firebrick?
Does the damper work?
Look for cracks or openings inside the fireplace, just behind the front wall.
Make sure you have working Smoke Detectors on each level of your home, and in bedrooms or bedroom hallways.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors should be installed in rooms with furnaces, fireplaces, woodstoves, or pellet stoves.
Test your units often & change your batteries yearly.
Make the fireplace the central focal point of the room. Clean up the area around your fireplace. Keep the front neat and free of combustables, such as paper, magazines, furniture, etc. Don't 'overload' the mantel.
