Chimney rebuilding: a guide for pros

What customers ask, how to win the job, and what to put on your profile.

Offering chimney rebuilding

Chimney rebuilds are high-stakes jobs where a missed liner or flashing detail can cause a leak or a fire risk, so customers trust the pros who inspect first and explain the findings clearly. Win the job by documenting the flue and the masonry before you quote the work.

What customers ask

  • Does my chimney need a rebuild, or can it be fixed with a crown repair?
  • Will you inspect the liner, and what will the report show?
  • Will the new chimney match the old brick?
  • How long will the work take, and will I be able to use the fireplace?
  • Will the roof be damaged during the work?
  • What about the flashing and the cap, and do they need replacing too?

How to win the job

  • On the first call, ask what appliance is connected, when the chimney was last inspected, and what symptoms the customer has seen, since those set the scope.
  • On site, go up on the roof with proper fall protection, check the crown, flashing and masonry, and run a camera through the flue before quoting.
  • Give the customer a written inspection summary with photos, separating the must-do repairs from the recommended ones.
  • In the quote, list the liner type and size, the flashing and cap materials, and the masonry matching method, so the scope is clear.
  • Explain the fall protection and roof protection plan in writing, since the customer will want to know how their house is protected.
  • Finish with a draft test and a fireplace check, and give the customer a written record of the results before you close the job.

What to put on your profile

  • Before and after photos of chimney rebuilds and liner installs, shot from the roof and the ground
  • Certifications and training you hold for chimney and flue work, listed as your own credentials
  • Liner types and flashing systems you install, and the appliances they suit
  • Your service area and whether you also do roof flashing, crown repairs and fireplace inspections

Follow-up that helps the customer

  • Offer an annual chimney inspection and cleaning reminder, explained as protection for the flue
  • Suggest a cap or screen upgrade where animals or water are getting in, with the reason stated plainly
  • Mention roof and flashing checks as information when the chimney work reveals wear nearby

Licenses and permits

Chimney rebuilding is commonly done under a contractor license in many areas, and liner and flue work often needs a permit and an inspection. Confirm what applies where you work with your state or local licensing agency and local building department, and carry current insurance that covers roof and height work.

Questions

What do I do when the customer wants to skip the liner to save money?

Refuse to install the chimney without a sound liner if the flue requires one, and explain the fire and smoke risk in writing. Document the inspection findings and the customer's decision so the record is clear.

Should I give a warranty on the rebuild?

Warranty your workmanship on the masonry, flashing and liner you installed, and state what the warranty does not cover, such as damage from appliances or misuse. Put the terms in writing and reference the inspection report.

About this guide

This national guide is written and checked by infinibell. Rules and conditions differ by place, so local pros are credited on guides for the cities they serve, not on national ones.

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