Fireplaces, Heating Stoves, Flues and Chimneys - how to clean chimney

I have purchased a 12 year old home which I do not beleive has ever had the chimney cleaned. It has the metal piping inside and a metal cap with a brick exterior. It is a gas fireplace.

Gas log fireplace? Are you sure that the flue needs cleaning? You can check it with a flashlight. Cleaning a chimney of creosote and soot is an extremely messy job, and best left to a pro with the proper equipment (extension handles and proper shape/size wirebrushes, soot vacuum, etc.). I've had two fireplaces (total of 3 flues) for 23 years, and it costs $65 to clean/video-inspect the first fireplace and $95 for two. If you burn wood you should have it cleaned every year. If you just have gas logs, it depends. Good Luck!

I agree with OldGuy. Its just not worth the fuss and mess to do it yourself.

Besides, the experts are more likely to spot any problems than you are and far less likely to damage anything in the cleaning process. Any money you save will be spent on cleaning the rugs, furniture, walls, and drapes.

First just open the flue and look in with a flash light.