Your Lakewood Chimney Just Caught Fire: Here’s What to Do (And Who to Call)

By Scarlet Chimney Inc Team · Updated October 26, 2026

If your Lakewood chimney is on fire, do not attempt to put it out yourself. Evacuate immediately, call 911, and then contact a licensed chimney sweep like Scarlet Chimney Inc. for emergency assessment. Most Lakewood fires happen in winter when creosote buildup ignites, so act fast to prevent structural damage. Prices for emergency services in Lakewood typically range from $250 to $600 depending on the damage, but skipping a professional inspection after a fire can cost you thousands in hidden repairs. Book an emergency visit now to assess the damage safely.

1. A chimney fire is a fast-moving emergency, here’s why waiting even 10 minutes can make it worse

A chimney fire spreads through creosote buildup, which burns at over 2,000°F, hot enough to crack masonry, melt flue liners, and even ignite nearby roofing or walls. In Lakewood’s dry winters, fires often start when homeowners burn wet or resinous wood, leaving thick, flammable deposits. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that one in six home fires involves a chimney or fireplace, and 85% of those fires could’ve been prevented with regular sweeping. If you see flames in the chimney, hear loud popping/cracking, or smell a strong acrid odor, do not try to extinguish it. Grab a fire extinguisher only if the fire is small and contained in the fireplace, never the chimney itself. Instead, evacuate, call 911, and then contact a licensed chimney sweep for emergency services. Lakewood’s high-elevation climate and older homes (many built in the 1950s–70s) mean masonry chimneys are especially vulnerable to hidden damage after a fire. Learn how to spot early warning signs before it becomes an emergency.

2. Myth: ‘I can put out a chimney fire with a garden hose’, here’s why that’s dangerous (and what to do instead)

Using water on a chimney fire is a common mistake that worsens the damage. Creosote burns hotter than water can cool it, and pouring water down the flue can cause explosive steam buildup or even crack the chimney’s structure. Instead, follow this Lakewood-specific emergency checklist: 1. Evacuate immediately, chimney fires can spread to the roof or attic in minutes. 2. Call 911 if flames are visible or you hear loud cracking. 3. Close the damper to starve the fire of oxygen (but do not close the fireplace door, it can trap heat and cause an explosion). 4. Never go back inside until firefighters say the fire is completely out. 5. Contact a licensed chimney sweep (like Scarlet Chimney Inc.) for a post-fire inspection, even if the fire seems small. Many Lakewood homeowners skip this step and end up paying $1,500–$5,000 for hidden masonry repairs later. See our emergency service pricing breakdown to avoid surprises. Once the fire is out, skip lighting the fireplace again until a pro checks it first. The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) recommends never burning the fireplace again without a full inspection and cleaning, creosote buildup can reignite.

3. The 3 red flags that mean your Lakewood chimney fire was worse than you think (and how to spot them)

Not all chimney fires leave obvious damage. Here’s what to watch for in Lakewood’s older homes (many with unlined masonry chimneys): - Cracked or bulging masonry: Look for spiderweb cracks in the chimney’s bricks or mortar. In Lakewood’s freeze-thaw cycles, even small cracks can let moisture in, leading to $3,000–$8,000 in water damage repairs over time. - Rust stains or corrosion: If your metal damper or cap shows rust, the fire may have damaged the flue liner. Unlined chimneys are common in Lakewood’s older neighborhoods (like Bear Creek or Southglenn), and they’re more prone to hidden damage. - Soot or creosote on the roof: Black streaks on your roof or in the attic mean the fire burned hot enough to melt tar paper, a sign the chimney’s integrity is compromised. Schedule a post-fire inspection before winter sets in; Lakewood’s cold snaps can turn minor damage into major (and expensive) problems. Pro tip: If your insurance company sends an adjuster, do not sign anything without a chimney professional’s report first. Many Lakewood homeowners have been lowballed on claims because they assumed the damage was minor.

4. Emergency chimney services in Lakewood: What to expect (and how to avoid overpaying)

After a chimney fire, you’ll need three key services, and knowing what’s included (and what’s an upsell) saves Lakewood homeowners hundreds to thousands. Here’s what a legit emergency chimney sweep should cover: - Free post-fire assessment: Reputable sweeps (like Scarlet Chimney Inc.) will not charge for an initial inspection after a fire. If they do, walk away, this is a red flag for overpricing. - Structural integrity check: Includes testing for cracks, liner damage, or blockages (common in Lakewood’s older homes with clay or cast-iron liners). - Creosote removal: After a fire, creosote can reignite, so a Level 3 cleaning (for heavy buildup) is often necessary. Avoid sweeps who push for a “basic” cleaning, this is how they nickel-and-dime you. - Safety certification: The sweep should provide a written report detailing repairs needed and why (not just a vague estimate). Compare our transparent pricing to spot overcharging, some Lakewood sweeps mark up emergency services by 50–100%. What you’ll pay in Lakewood: - Emergency inspection: $0–$150 (should be free if you call within 24 hours). - Minor repairs (e.g., damper replacement): $150–$400. - Major repairs (e.g., relining or masonry repair): $1,200–$5,000+. Pro tip: If the sweep recommends replacing the entire chimney, get a second opinion. Many Lakewood homeowners have been pressured into unnecessary replacements (costing $10,000–$20,000) when repairs would’ve sufficed. See our repair vs. replace guide before committing.

5. ‘I already have insurance, why do I need a chimney sweep?’ (The answer will save you money)

Your homeowners insurance will not cover the full cost of chimney fire damage, especially if you didn’t have a recent inspection or cleaning. Here’s why you still need a chimney sweep: - Insurance loopholes: Most policies exclude damage from neglect (e.g., not sweeping annually). The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that 90% of chimney fires are caused by creosote buildup, something preventable with regular maintenance. - Hidden damage: Insurance adjusters won’t inspect your chimney, they’ll only cover what’s visible (e.g., roof damage). A chimney sweep finds structural issues (like cracked flues or weakened masonry) that could lead to costly lawsuits if they cause a future fire. - Negotiation leverage: A chimney sweep’s report gives you hard data to push back on lowball insurance offers. In Lakewood, homeowners who skip the post-fire inspection often get claims denied or underpaid by 30–50%. What to do next: 1. File a claim immediately (but don’t sign anything). 2. Get a chimney inspection report from a licensed sweep. 3. Use the report to negotiate with your insurer. Download our Lakewood chimney claim checklist to avoid common pitfalls.

6. How to choose a Lakewood chimney sweep for emergencies (and 3 questions to ask before hiring)

Not all chimney sweeps are equal, especially in emergencies. Here’s how to spot a budget-friendly, trustworthy pro in Lakewood: - Licensed and insured: Ask for proof of licensing (Colorado requires CSIA certification for chimney sweeps). Unlicensed sweeps void your insurance and often cut corners. - Transparent pricing: Reputable sweeps won’t give you a vague estimate over the phone. Scarlet Chimney Inc. provides itemized quotes upfront, so you know exactly what you’re paying for. See our pricing structure to compare. - 24/7 availability: If they can’t respond within 2 hours of your call, they’re not emergency-ready. Lakewood’s high-traffic areas (like Belmar or S. Jackson) see more chimney fires in winter, book now before you need it. 3 questions to ask: 1. “Do you offer a free post-fire inspection?” (Legit sweeps do.) 2. “What’s the difference between your ‘emergency’ and ‘standard’ pricing?” (Some sweeps charge double for emergencies.) 3. “Will you provide a written report for my insurance?” (If they say no, walk away.) Avoid sweeps who: - Push for unnecessary repairs (e.g., relining a chimney that just needs a cleaning). - Don’t show up on time (emergencies can’t wait). - Won’t explain the damage in plain terms. Read reviews from Lakewood homeowners to see who delivers on promises.

7. What to do after the emergency chimney service (to avoid another fire)

A chimney fire is a wake-up call. Here’s how to prevent a repeat without overpaying: - Schedule a full inspection and cleaning, not just a “quick sweep.” The CSIA recommends an annual inspection and sweeping at least once a year (or twice if you burn a lot of wood). In Lakewood, fall is the best time to prep before winter fires peak. - Upgrade your wood-burning habits: Wet or resinous wood creates more creosote. Switch to seasoned hardwoods (oak, maple) and never burn trash or cardboard. The EPA’s Burn Wise program the EPA's Burn Wise program offers free guides on safe burning. - Install a chimney cap: Lakewood’s windy winters can blow debris into your chimney, causing blockages. A stainless steel cap ($150–$300) prevents this and extends your chimney’s life. - Monitor your chimney: After repairs, check for smoke smell, soot, or weak drafts. If you notice issues, call a sweep immediately, small problems turn into $2,000+ repairs fast. Pro tip: Many Lakewood homeowners skip the annual inspection to save money, then pay 3–5x more when a fire happens. See our Lakewood chimney care calendar to stay on track without overpaying.

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