Who should you call for a chimney leak?
Short answer. Call a roofer first if water shows on the ceiling or in the attic next to the chimney after rain, since flashing where the chimney meets the roof is the most common cause. Call a chimney sweep if water appears in the firebox or flue, and a mason if the brick is crumbling, the mortar is washing out, or the crown is broken.
Who fixes what
- Roofer. Step flashing, counterflashing, apron and back flashing, crickets, and the shingles and decking around the chimney. Also chase covers on wood-framed chases in many cases.
- Chimney sweep. Inspects and cleans the flue, installs caps and dampers, evaluates and replaces liners, and often seals crowns. Look for certification from a recognized chimney safety organization.
- Mason. Repoints mortar, replaces spalled brick, rebuilds crowns and stacks.
- HVAC professional. When a furnace or water heater vents into the chimney and condensation is the problem.
Where to start based on symptoms
- Ceiling stain beside the chimney, or wet framing in the attic. Roofer.
- Water in the firebox, rusty damper, or animals in the flue. Chimney sweep.
- Crumbling brick, white efflorescence, open mortar joints. Mason.
- Damp walls during heating season without rain. HVAC professional, then a sweep.
- Not sure. Start with a roofer who will inspect the crown and cap as well as the flashing, and who will tell you when the problem belongs to another trade.
After a storm
If wind or hail damaged the chimney cap, flashing or nearby shingles, photograph it and call your roofer before patching. Storm damage may be part of an insurance claim, and the roofer's documentation helps.
Avoid paying twice
Reflashing a chimney whose crown is the real problem, or sealing brick when the flashing has failed, wastes money. The first visit should end with photos showing the cause.
See chimney leaks and crickets and how to choose a roofing contractor in Georgia.