How much does it cost to repair a chimney leak?

Having a chimney leak is not fun to experience. If your chimney is leaking, the first thing you have to do is determine the reason. Repairing your chimney as soon as you noticed the leak is very important in order to prevent further damage and higher costs of repair.

Is it normal for my chimney to leak?

There are many reasons why a chimney leaks, and it is important for the homeowner to take immediate action. Right now, you might be thinking about how much it costs to repair a chimney leak. Is chimney repair expensive?


For the short answer: It depends on the root of the problem.  To have a more accurate estimate, you have to know the exact reason why your chimney is leaking.

Here are some of the probable reasons why, our recommendation of the best fixes, and the cost of repair for each of them.

The most common reasons that chimneys leak

Reason Number 1: No chimney cover 

If your chimney has no cover, anything that fits in the hole will go in there such as rain, snow, leaves, and even birds. A chimney cap acts as a protection for your chimney in order to keep debris out and reduces the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning which can happen if there is no proper air ventilation.

Best Fix: Invest in a chimney cover

Estimate Cost: Depending on the size and material used, a chimney cap ranges from around $35 to $550 and installation is around $100 to $200.

Reason Number 2: Cracked or damaged chimney crown

A chimney crown covers the topmost part of the chimney. It is commonly made of waterproof material such as metal. As it is exposed to other debris and animals, it will deteriorate over time and form cracks and lose parts, resulting in leaks.

How to know if it is the culprit: Do an inspection of your chimney from the top.

Best Fix: Varied repairing methods such as crown pouring or cap replacement

Estimate Cost: Depending on the size and materials used, repairing a chimney crown costs $350 on average.


Reason Number 3: Cracked mortar joints and bricks

As time passes, mortar joints and bricks will crack due to exposure and temperature changes. If left unattended and unrepaired, this may be a cause of hazards such as damage in ceilings, walls, and can even result in a chimney fire.

How to know if it is the culprit: Inspecting the mortar bricks for cracks and leaks, doing a Masonry Absorption Test (MAT).

Best Fixes: Depending on the need: sealing, replacing bricks, tuckpointing

Estimate Cost: Depending on the method necessary and size and materials used, repairing a cracked mortar joint and brick can start at $175 for less than 10 bricks to $4,000 the bigger the damage is. Tuckpointing costs $700 to $2,200.

 

Reason Number 4: Damaged flashing

The flashing is the part of your chimney commonly made of metal and caulking that is located between your roof and chimney. It is used to prevent water leaks and moisture from penetrating your roof. When there are damages to your flashing, water can leak inside your house.

How to know if it is the culprit: Because chimney leaks are often unnoticeable at its early stages, a thorough inspection of your roof, ceilings, attic, and drywalls for wood rot and moisture is needed.

Best Fix: Varied repairing methods such as flashing repair and flashing replacement

Estimate Cost: Depending on the method necessary and size and materials used, flashing repair costs starts at $200 up to $500 while flashing replacement starts at $300 to $1,500.

What's the timeframe on repairs?

The duration of the time a chimney needs to be repaired depends on the damage it has and the method to be done to fix it. For common and minor repairs, it can often be fixed within the day. If there is major damage that may need extensive work and repairs such as tuckpointing, it may take a couple of days.

Does insurance cover chimney leaks?

With a properly installed fireplace and chimney made with good materials and the right care and maintenance, your chimney will probably last for many years. However, cracks and damage are sometimes unavoidable occurrences over time. Chimney repair can be quite expensive and you might be wondering if your home insurance policy will cover the costs.


Typically, chimney repairs are not covered by home insurance policies as the homeowners are the ones responsible for the inspection, maintenance, cleaning of their fireplace. As such, damaged chimneys due to neglect, wear, and deterioration will not be covered.


However, if your chimney is damaged due to unexpected catastrophe and peril such as fires, lightning strikes, and fallen debris due to weather conditions, some home insurance companies would cover the costs, depending on what policy and coverage option you chose.


The best thing to do is to ask your insurance company as there are many different policies and variations for coverage.

Can I repair it myself?

It is easier and safer to have a fireplace professional to have your chimney checked, but if you want to do it yourself, make sure:


  1. To inspect the problem, have two people with phones or walkie-talkies to use as a communication device to make things easier.
  2. To have the person going on the roof wear a safety harness and shoes with a good grip.


To make the entire process of inspection, installation, maintenance, repair, and replacement, we would still highly recommend for you to hire a professional. Not only will it reduce the potential risks and injuries that may happen, but they will also have the experience, best tools, and best techniques that will get the job done.



Also, the total costs of calling an expert will be lower as doing it yourself can lead to more issues in the future. At the end of the day, entrusting your chimney to a professional will save your money in the long run.

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