Even unused chimneys are vulnerable to problems that can affect your home’s safety and structure. Rain, snow, salt air, and wind all contribute to masonry decay, rusted components, and clogged flues in unused systems that can create serious hazards.Animals can nest in unused flues, leaves and debris can accumulate, and structural damage can develop without obvious signs. These problems can lead to water damage, pest infestations, or dangerous conditions if you ever decide to use the fireplace again.Annual inspections catch these issues early, when they’re still minor and inexpensive to fix. Waiting until problems become obvious often means dealing with major repairs, structural damage, or safety hazards that could have been prevented with regular professional attention.