• The chimney chase top which is usually constructed of formed aluminum or stainless steel.  Just like inspection the crown of a brick chimney use of a drone or binoculars is essential.  The crown should shed water and not support pools of water.  In the latter case,  metal deterioration will lead to leaks.  When the interior support for the crown is inadequate snow load may cause the crown to become concave allow water to accumulate.
• In areas where there is an HOA, the presence of rust on the metal crown or dry rot on the exterior framing will frequently lead to the HOA citing the chimney for repair.
• From the inside, check for signs of water damage where the chimney passes through the roof. Improper or deteriorated flashing is often the cause.
• Look for entry points into the chase where there is dry rot or missing siding.  A bird or squirrel nesting in the chimney chase is a fire hazard.

As a homeowner, your can take care of the exterior by replacing deteriorated wooden trim and painting the exterior of the chase.  After that, it is time for a pro to inspect and repair.

Priority Number One

The first inspection point of all these systems is that they should work.  If there is a remote, it should turn the system on and off. Some remotes adjust the flame height, fan speed, allow you to set a temperature goal.  There should be an immediately accessible gas cut off. (You probably have seen those long brass keys in the vicinity of gas log fireplaces.) These keys are not decoration; they are a safety feature that must be immediately available. (Not the key, the cut off functionality). Obviously, the glass front of an insert system cannot be cracked.

With a vented system check to make sure the damper is open.  If the damper is still present, it should have a device to keep it locked open. In addition, home inspectors will check for gas leaks and may check to verify that logs are positioned in accordance with manufacturer instructions.