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Animal sounds in the chimney

Do not light a fire to remove an animal. Leave the fireplace unused and contact a qualified professional who can coordinate with an appropriate wildlife specialist and local requirements.

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Updated September 10, 2026Homeowner guidance
Inspection camera lowered toward a bird nest blocking a clay flue; illustrative image
Illustrative service image — not a documented company job
CHIMNEY / FIREPLACE / HOMEUSA CHIMNEY PROS
STOP USE

What to do first

Stop using the affected fireplace until it has been assessed. For suspected gas, a CO alarm, an active fire, or immediate danger, leave and call 911 from a safe location.

This form does not dispatch emergency help.

A harnessed technician fitting a mesh cap on a tall brick chimney on a steep gable roof to keep animals out; illustrative image
Illustrative service image — not a documented company job
01 / A CLOSER LOOK

Coordinate the chimney and wildlife work

Explain whether sounds are inside the firebox, above a closed damper, or only heard outdoors. Ask who will identify the wildlife, check applicable rules, and inspect the chimney after the obstruction is resolved. Removal and future-entry prevention are separate scopes and may require different specialists.

A 1950s Craftsman house with a two-flue brick chimney on a slate roof topped by a mesh chimney cap and bare trees nearby; illustrative image
Illustrative service image — not a documented company job
02 / THE HOMEOWNER PERSPECTIVE

What the inspection should resolve

Ask for the cause, supporting photographs, limitations of the inspection, and a written recommendation about continued use. A repair quote should identify the affected parts and the reason for the proposed work.

THE SHORT ANSWER

Do not light a fire to remove an animal. Leave the fireplace unused and contact a qualified professional who can coordinate with an appropriate wildlife specialist and local requirements.

Updated September 10, 2026

What you can observe safely

  • Keep the fireplace closed if it can remain closed without touching wildlife.
  • Record when sounds occur from a safe distance.

What to avoid

  • Do not climb onto the roof or enter the chimney.
  • Do not alter gas components, venting, or safety controls.
  • Do not use a test fire to diagnose the problem.

Possible causes to assess

  • Wildlife entry
  • Nesting or other obstruction
  • Missing or damaged termination

A symptom cannot establish the cause remotely. An assessment of the complete system helps determine the appropriate repair.

Chimney inspection

A few common questions

Can this be diagnosed from a photo?

A photo can document a symptom and help prepare a visit. It cannot confirm concealed conditions or establish that a chimney or fuel-burning appliance is safe.

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