Symptom field notes

Smoke coming into the room

First response

Stop using the appliance and arrange an assessment. For active fire, a CO alarm or immediate danger, leave the building and contact emergency services.

What to observe safely

Record whether smoke appears during lighting, steady burning or refueling, and whether exhaust fans were running. Do not repeatedly light fires to recreate the symptom.

Why diagnosis matters

A blocked passage, cold flue, pressure imbalance, appliance operation or vent configuration may be involved. These possibilities require different remedies.

A repair that addresses one possible cause can leave another unresolved. Ask the inspector to connect each recommendation to an observation, explain the limits of access and identify any tests or further investigation needed. Do not accept a photo of an unidentified flue as proof that a particular repair applies to your system.

The question to take to a contractor

Which observations distinguish a blockage from an air-pressure or venting problem?

Your appointment brief

• Identify the appliance, fuel and last known inspection.
• Describe when the symptom started and how often it happens.
• Attach dated photos taken safely; label the room or chimney.
• List recent appliance, roofing or ventilation changes.
• Ask for the findings, access limitations and proposed next steps in writing.

After the visit

Separate the contractor’s observations from the work they recommend. Record whether the cause was confirmed or remains uncertain. If a repair is proposed, compare its scope and completion checks with another qualified opinion when appropriate. Keep the report even if you defer work, and follow the inspector’s advice about appliance use.

Chimney inspection services: scope checklist

Record the visit in your passport · Compare proposals

Reference and limitations

CSIA homeowner guidance provides professional inspection background. The appointment brief is our editorial worksheet. It does not authorize reuse of an appliance.