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Connect the impact to the equipment inside
Tell the assessor where material fell, when the strike or impact may have occurred and which hearth or other appliance connects to that chimney, if known. An outside corner can be visible from the ground while the inside of the flue remains entirely out of sight. Save existing photos from before the storm if you have them.
Ask how the hidden path will be evaluated
CSIA describes a more detailed masonry chimney inspection following an event likely to have caused damage. Ask how that applies to the system in front of you, which flues are included and how accessible surfaces and flue interiors will be examined. If a bend, obstruction or unsafe access limits the inspection, request that the report identify the unseen portion.
Separate making the site secure from returning it to use
A roofer may secure the exterior opening quickly while a chimney evaluation is still pending. Keep the temporary weather protection and the operating decision on separate lines in your notes. Ask who will document any remaining repairs and what must happen before each connected appliance is used again. A replacement cap alone cannot answer that question.