Chimney Safety

Fire prevention starts with homeowners.  When it comes to wood-burning fireplaces and wood-stoves, never assume the chimney is clean.  Here are some tips to keep your home safe.

  • Inspect and clean chimney and flue pipes often

  • Always check the condition of the chimney in hidden spaces, including the attic, wall, and chimney chase areas, for corrosion and other deterioration

  • Older chimney and flue systems, or ones that smolder too much, may need cleaning as often as every three weeks

  • On metal chimneys, look for corrosion or rust stains on the outer shell, and check for bulges or corrosion in the liner

  • If any problems are detected during your cleaning and inspection, have the system thoroughly inspected by a qualified chimney installer, and have the repairs done before continuing to use the chimney

The recommendation(s), advice and contents of this material are provided for informational purposes only and do not purport to address every possible legal obligation, hazard, code violation, loss potential or exception to good practice. Clare Mutual Insurance Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries (“Clare Mutual”) specifically disclaim any warranty or representation that acceptance of any recommendations or advice contained herein will make any premises, property or operation safe or in compliance with any law or regulation. Under no circumstances should this material or your acceptance of any recommendations or advice contained herein be construed as establishing the existence or availability of any insurance coverage with Clare Mutual. By providing this information to you, Clare Mutual does not assume (and specifically disclaims) any duty, undertaking or responsibility to you. The decision to accept or implement any recommendation(s) or advice contained in this material must be made by you.