Chimney repair costs $200 to $700 to fix minor cracks, flashing, fill small joints, or patch up the cap. Bigger repairs cost $1,000 to $3,500 on average to replace the crown, resurface the chimney, or rebuilding a leaning chimney above the roof.

• The cheapest chimney repair costs $150 to $400 for basic sealing and waterproofing only.
• A complete chimney replacement costs $4,000 to $15,000 total, including the interior and exterior parts.

Homeowners insurance does not typically cover general chimney repairs that result from normal fireplace usage over time. However, your insurance can cover repairs if the damage occurs from an unexpected lightning strike, chimney fire, tornado, or other natural disaster.

Chimney repairers don't expect you to tip them for a routine inspection and cleaning. You can tip $20 to $60 extra if the technicians exceeded expectations on an unexpectedly difficult repair job.

The homeowners are typically responsible for chimney repair, but the landlord is responsible for chimney maintenance and routine inspections. Consult your homeowners association and rental agreements for the specific laws in your state.

Chimney repair doesn't require a permit if the work is part of a minor cleaning or routine inspection. However, a permit is necessary when chimney demolition or extensive masonry work is necessary.

You should repair your chimney if the damage isn't structural and costs are less than $600 to $1,000 for a partial rebuild. If the damage is structural, extensive, and spreading, then you should rebuild the chimney. A chimney rebuild costs $1,000 to $3,500 above the roofline only or $4,000 to $15,000 for a full replacement.

Depending on the extent of the chimney problems, your repair project can include:

• The cost to repair a chimney crown is $150 to $700 minimum for minor work or up to $1,000 to $3,000 for a full replacement.
• The cost to seal and waterproof a chimney is $170 to $820.
• A chimney cap costs $200 to $850 for a full replacement.
• Replacing a stainless-steel chimney liner costs $900 to $3,800 on average.
• A chimney sweep costs $150 to $350 for an official inspection and routine cleaning.

A cracked chimney is dangerous because it lets heat, moisture, and poisonous carbon monoxide gases escape into the home. Untreated cracks result in structural damages and higher fire risks. Moisture from the cracks also leads to wood rot around the fireplace and mold growth.

A chimney sweep or mason repairs chimneys, unlike roofers who only have training for fixing general roof surfaces. Before hiring a chimney technician, use this checklist:

• Get at least 3 estimates from companies with 5+ years of experience to compare.
• Read their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
• Select insured, bonded, and licensed companies certified with the CSIA (Chimney Safety Institute of America).
• Avoid selecting the lowest quote that suggests low-quality standards.
• For large jobs, ask for a written contract and warranty.
• Avoid making large payments upfront. Follow a payment schedule for the work completed.

• How long have you been working on chimneys?
• Can I see a list of references and a portfolio of your past restoration projects?
• How long will it take to fix my chimney?
• Does this quote include a full inspection, materials, labor, and cleanup?
• Will the rest of my chimney need new tuck pointing to prevent further damages?
• Did you find any damage in the chimney liner or chimney cap?
• What were the main causes of these damages, and how we stop them from happening?
• Can you recommend any sealants for my chimney?
• Do you offer ongoing chimney maintenance and cleaning services?