Chimney Sweep?

[Ric.ror]

I have one of those fire pit fires that imitate a living fire (and is completely useless as a fire by the way)
It was in the house when I moved in (2009) and I rarely use it.
Occasionally in windy weather it gets covered in what looks like soot
Could it possibly be that the chimney needs sweeping even though nothing goes up it?

[TWR]

I would get the Chimney swept & if the chimney top is open, get a cowl fitted, crows like un-used chimney's Ric

[The Builder]

It was probably not swept when the fire was installed. Worth doing now.

I agree with a cowl of some kind too. If the fire is electric, then have a "rain hood" fitted. If it's gas, then a simple gas terminal.

[Ric.ror]

Thanks for the answers - I noticed we had a murder of crows this summer
Now I know why!!