Why diagnosis matters

Possible causes belong on a shortlist, not in a verdict

A chimney symptom can travel or appear away from its source. A qualified professional may need to inspect the appliance, connector, flue, exterior and surrounding building conditions before recommending work.

  • The visible symptom may have more than one source
  • Appliance, fuel, weather and building pressure can interact
  • Concealed conditions may require camera work or added access

Build the evidence

What to document before the visit

Your symptom record

  • When the symptom began and how it changed
  • Weather, appliance use and fan operation at the time
  • Safe ground-level photos and relevant past reports
  • Any alarm, fire, storm or building-work history

Interview the company

Questions that keep diagnosis visible

  1. 01What did you directly observe?
  2. 02Which possible causes were ruled out and how?
  3. 03Should the appliance remain unused?
  4. 04What is the least invasive next step that can confirm the diagnosis?