Broken Fireplace

[jsheeran]

I bought a Condo about 2 years ago. Last fall I called to have the chimney swept. when the company came they told me that they had been at my condo a few years ago and it needed about $2000 in repairs. This was never put on the disclosure when I bought the condo. Can I take the former owner to court and have them pay to fix the chimney if I can get a copy of the old estimate? Also, what if it was a previous owner (like two owners ago). Would I be able to take that person to court?

 

[faithandhope]

Did you have an inspection before you purchased the condo? Also, when you say broken, you are stating that the chimney cannot be used at all without the repairs? You should ask the chimney company to put their statements in writing about the repairs and the previous visit. Also double check and make sure it was your unit, not one next door and he was confused. Ask him to pull a copy of the service reocrd with the date and address on it. You will need a copy of that as well to verify that the previous owner knew but did not disclose. Best of luck.

 

[jsheeran]

I did have a house inspection when I bought the place and they did not mention any problems with the chimney. As far as the firplace, it cannot be used. It needs re-lined as the ceramic vents are broken and smoke cannot escape the chimney.

 

[faithandhope]

Then definately contact the seller. Also include copies of the chimney company reports. Best of Luck.