| It sounds like you need a new flu liner. Over the years, the flu liner in your chimney has deteriorated to the point where the mortar and bricks are exposed to rain water. Over time the mortar joints have become compromised and are allowing this moisture to enter your neighbor's wall (which borders your chimney) from the inside of your chimney through the compromised mortar joints into his wall.
Have your furnace service company check the chimney clean-out in your basement, they will probably find the minature shale-like reamins of your terra cotta lining.
If it's a wood fire place, have your chimney sweep (who you should be using annually) check out the condition of the interior of you chimney for you.
You will probably be able to have a stainless steel liner installed if your appliances burn gas. For a wood fireplace, I believe your local code may require terra cotta. Also be sure to install a suitable chimney cap which will also keep small animals and birds out during the off season. |