How a $500 problem became a $5000 problem

[Stephanie Lella]

Hi BP,

Looking for advice regarding one of my rental houses in baltimore.  The original problem that came up in the inspection was that some bricks at the top of the chimney were crumbling. We were told it should only cost $500 to recement them. However, when we replaced the hot water heater about a week ago, the plumber told us there is a carbon monoxide leak due to improper venting through the chimney. Our latest estimate to fix it was around $4500. Has anyone experienced this same problem? Any cheaper solutions or contractor recommendations?

[Dell Schlabach]

Furnace and hot water tank can typically be connected to a liner dropped into the chimney, my hvac contractor charges me 250.00.

Liners depending on size, connectors, termination materials for top of chimney can typically be purchased for 75-250.

The chimney repair, if you have loose brick and flashing work would still need done... 

I would get a couple more quotes on liner install and you should be able to kerp the project costs 750-1,000 instead of 5,000, in my opinion.