Chimney may be leaking - what should we do?

[Virginia Jones]

We recently finished renovating a rental property and after a heavy rain it looks like the chimney may be leaking. It is not an active chimney. There is actually not a fireplace but at the base of the chimney in the basement is a little door with ashes in it. There are black streaks running down from the door and after a heavy rain, a little pool of water on the basement floor. 

Should we have someone come out and inspect the chimney or is there an easy fix we could handle ourselves? The chimney does have a chimney cap on it. 

[Erik B.]

@Virginia Jones

Dont call a roofer. Call a chimney company PREFERABLY one that is highly recommended from friends or other investors.

Chimneys can leak 2 ways

-inside the chimney

-Or outside the chimney

Inside- leaks through the actual chimney opening because of a missing cap or through the failing masonry especially on wind blown rain. If you look at the condition of mortar and bricks and see anything that looks loose or missing you need some repointing/repairing at the least.

Outside- could be water entering the structure between the chimney and the roof framing through holes in the flashing.

If you have water stains coming out from the ash door you

Most likely have water entering in to the chimney through the masonry.