Removing a brick chimney yourself is technically possible for some homeowners, but it's not a simple weekend job. Depending on the chimney's size, location, and how it connects to your roof and structure, this work can involve building consent requirements, structural considerations, and real safety hazards. Read on to understand what's involved before you pick up a hammer.
Is a Building Consent Required?
This is the first question to answer before you touch anything. In New Zealand, demolition work is governed by the NZ Building Code and the Building Act 2004. Removing a chimney may or may not require a building consent depending on the scope of work.
Under Schedule 1 of the Building Act, some minor demolition is exempt from consent — but the exemptions have conditions and are not always straightforward to interpret. For example, if removing the chimney affects the structural integrity of the building, or if it requires significant roof repairs, a consent is likely needed.
Always check with your local council before starting. Don't assume your job is exempt — getting this wrong can cause problems when you sell your home or make an insurance claim. You can find general guidance at MBIE Building Performance.
Structural Considerations
Brick chimneys are often more structurally significant than they look. Some chimneys are tied into the framing of the house or support elements of the roof structure. Removing one incorrectly can cause:
- Roof sagging or collapse
- Damage to ceiling framing
- Water ingress if the roof penetration isn't properly made good
If your home was built before the 1970s, the chimney may also be a key part of the earthquake bracing strategy — or conversely, an earthquake risk itself if the brickwork is deteriorating. BRANZ has useful guidance on older construction methods and materials.
Before proceeding, it's worth having a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) or structural engineer assess whether the chimney is load-bearing or tied into the structure. Find qualified tradespeople at LBP or search tradedirectory.co.nz.
What a DIY Chimney Removal Involves
If your chimney is a straightforward stack above the roofline (not structurally integrated) and your council confirms no consent is needed, a competent DIYer may be able to tackle the above-roof portion. Here's a general overview:
Above the Roofline
- Carefully dismantle bricks from the top down, one course at a time
- Never stand on the chimney stack itself
- Use a scaffold or roof ladder rated for the load — do not work from a standard ladder on a pitched roof
- Wet the brickwork lightly to reduce dust
- Lower bricks to the ground using a rope and bucket — do not throw them
Through the Roof
- Once the stack is removed to roof level, the flashing and roof penetration must be properly made good
- This typically means cutting and fitting new roofing material (iron, tiles, or membrane depending on your roof type) and installing new sarking or underlayment
- Poorly sealed roof penetrations are a leading cause of water damage — if you're not confident, this step alone justifies hiring a roofer
Inside the House
- The firebox, hearth, and internal chimney breast may remain or be removed
- Removing internal brickwork is heavy, messy work and may affect wall linings, floors, and ceiling framing
- Any GIB or plasterboard patching required afterwards should follow manufacturer guidelines — see GIB for system specifications
Asbestos and Hazardous Materials
If your home was built before 1990, there is a real possibility that materials around the chimney — including rope seals, flashing compounds, or associated wall linings — may contain asbestos. Disturbing asbestos-containing materials without proper precautions is a serious health and legal risk.
Before demolition, arrange an asbestos survey by a qualified assessor. WorkSafe NZ sets out the legal requirements for managing asbestos in residential settings. Do not proceed until you know what you're dealing with.
Waste Disposal
Brick rubble is heavy — a full chimney can produce several tonnes of material. You'll need to arrange:
- A skip bin or trailer for rubble removal
- Disposal at a licensed facility (check with your local council for approved sites)
- Separate disposal streams if any hazardous materials are identified
Electrical, Gas, and Plumbing Connections
If your chimney is associated with a gas fireplace or flue, any disconnection of gas appliances or pipework is restricted work that must be carried out by a licensed gasfitter registered with the Plumbers Gasfitters & Drainlayers Board. Do not attempt to disconnect gas lines yourself — this is illegal and extremely dangerous.
Similarly, if there is any electrical wiring associated with the fireplace (e.g. for a fan or ignition), this must be handled by a registered electrician under the Electrical Workers Registration Board.
When to Call a Professional
You should strongly consider hiring a demolition contractor or builder if:
- The chimney runs through more than one storey
- You're unsure whether it's structural
- Your home was built before 1990 (asbestos risk)
- The roof penetration is complex or your roof is tiled
- A building consent is required
- You're not comfortable working at height
A professional demolition contractor will assess the job, manage consent requirements, handle hazardous materials safely, and make good the roof and interior properly. You can find qualified local demolition contractors on tradedirectory.co.nz.
Safety Reminder
Working at height is one of the leading causes of serious injury in NZ. Always use appropriate scaffolding or a roof ladder, wear a hard hat, and have a second person present. Never work alone on a roof.
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