Chimney & Fireplaces/a broken flue ?

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Expert: - 7/4/2009


Question

our new flue
I am buying my first home and 3 weeks ago at inspection we were told that a certified person should come and look at the fireplace flue. *All work was to be finished on July 1 and today was our chance to look again to determine what work was (or was not) completed to our liking.

These photos of the flue were taken today (July 3rd), and are exactly like the ones the inspector took over 3 weeks ago, so clearly no work was done.

The lack of repair is not a deal breaker for me as far as purchasing the home, I expected the seller to say no to the repair. But by requesting an inspection, I was really only hoping it would help me to know what the scope of the problem and cost of repair might be going into the home as the new owner.

I'd appreciate anything you can tell me, as the whole thing is a learning experience!!  

Sincerely,  ~Dawn
Denver Colorado

Answer
Hello Dawn, If this is for a fireplace then you have a real problem and the entire system might need to be replaces (fireplace, chimney and cap) this might not be a deal breaker but it I would not use this fireplace ever until it is fixed.
I would have a local Certified Chimney Sweep (www.csia.org, there you can look up by zip code to find one near you) take a first hand look (ASAP) at what you have they should be able to help.
Hope this helps
James

James Ball

Expertise

I am a chimney sweep with over 22 years of experience, CSIA certified and member of the NCSG, I can answer questions about smoky fire places, wood stoves, and heating units (boiler and furnace chimneys) do you need a relining? A cap? And much more

Experience

over 22 years

Organizations
Chimney Safety Institute of America, National Chimney Sweep Guild

Education/Credentials
CSIA (Chimney Safety Institute of America) certified

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