Proudly American
Reconstruct the evening without repeating it
Write down which appliance was used, whether the fire was starting or already established, and which exhaust equipment was running. Note whether the outside doors, windows or fireplace enclosure had recently changed. The new hood's model or installation invoice is useful for the people examining the home ventilation. Avoid turning fans on for an experiment or lighting another fire for the camera.
Give two different questions to the appropriate trades
One question is whether the fireplace and flue have an obstruction, defect or unsuitable configuration. The other is how air moves through the house when exhaust equipment operates. Building America's fireplace ventilation guidance discusses the relationship between exhaust equipment and natural-draft systems. A chimney inspection can identify the scope of fireplace questions; further building-performance or mechanical evaluation may need a separate appointment.
Ask for a written handoff specific to this house
If the chimney examination finds an unresolved airflow question, ask for the observation that should go to the mechanical contractor. Give both trades the new hood documentation and any room-alteration drawings. A proposed cap replacement and a proposed change to the kitchen ventilation should each explain which finding they address. The City's Hollywood permit portal can help locate records from the remodel if the owner does not have them.