Chimney flue repair is sometimes overseen because we suspect the chimney is dirty and have it cleaned. This oversight could lead to your home burning down. You need to inspect your chimney regularly for cracks or irregularities. When it seems like your chimney flue is in need of cleaning, you could have it cleaned and then inspect it for damage at the same time. This will rule out both possibilities at the same time and can save your home from being burnt out by a chimney fire. Chimney fires can erupt unexpectedly at any time because of the build-up of creosote inside the chimney which is then ignited by the intense heat travelling up the chimney when you make a fire in the fireplace. This fire is so much more difficult to put out because it could happen at any point in the chimney and you might not be able to reach it in time. Rather take the safer route and inspect your chimney regularly.