External chimney separating from building

Causes

Earthquake damage, or foundation settlement

Listed under: earthquakes, Roof, chimneys and flues and fireplaces

Cause

Earthquake damage, or foundation settlement

Repair

  • chimneys that are no longer structurally sound can be dangerous, particularly in an earthquake. Engage a chartered professional engineer to advise on options to restrain, strengthen, demolish or rebuild the chimney

  • removal of a structurally unsound chimney does not require a building consent. This exemption is limited to any building up to 3 storeys high as long as the removal does not affect the primary structure, any specified system or any fire separation (which includes firewalls protecting other property)

  • any repair work that is necessary – for example, making good the gaps left in a roof after chimney removal – can also be done without a consent

  • the Building Act states that after the repairs/renovations are finished, the building must comply with the Building Code to at least the same level as it did before the work started

  • you should only attempt these repairs yourself if you have the skills, knowledge, experience and tools to complete the job properly. Poor quality work on the building exterior can result in leaks and other problems and may affect your house insurance cover

  • if you engage a tradesperson to do the work, that person must be a licensed building practitioner or work under the supervision of a licensed practitioner. You can ask an LBP to show you their ID card – they have a duty to show you if asked. You can find an LBP, or check that someone is licensed, online

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