Chimneys and parapets
Is a missing withe, together with two pots on one stack, any evidence on whether the flues still run separately, or only a note of what was visible?
A missing withe, together with two pots on one stack, is only a note of what was visible. It is not evidence that the flues still run separately, and it is not evidence that they have joined. The survey saw two pots and noted a withe that appears to be missing where it could be seen. It has not looked up the flues and has not tested whether smoke from one opening can reach the other. Separation of the flues stays undecided.
Last reviewed 24 October 2026. Written for buyers in England and Wales unless this answer says otherwise. No named surveyor has signed this page. It is general guidance, not a report on your house, and not legal advice.
What is the fuller explanation?
A withe is the division between flues, often expected at the head of the stack between the pots. If it is gone, the pots can still stand while the flues join below the cap. From the ground the surveyor sees the pots, the cap and a gap. That gap does not map the flues through the house. Two pots mean two outlets were provided. They do not prove two intact paths. The note prompts a flue inspection. It is not that inspection.
Ask the solicitor which rooms the stack serves and whether both openings are used. A competent person who looks up flues, or a sweep with the right access, can check separation. The home survey has not done that and should not be quoted as if it had. Do not cap either pot, and do not light either fire, on the theory that two pots mean two safe flues. The missing withe is the reason that theory was not accepted.
What should you ask your surveyor?
- Where did the withe appear to be missing, relative to the two pots?
- Were the flues looked up, or only the stack head seen from outside?
- Which rooms does the report think this stack might serve, if it says?
What are the typical next steps?
- Treat flue separation as untested.
- Ask which fireplaces use the two pots.
- Get a flue inspection before either opening is used.
Costs vary with the building and with who you instruct. Where this page does not cite a published figure, ask the surveyor, a relevant specialist, or your solicitor for a written quote. Do not treat a forum average as the price.
Also asked about this
Can the pots be counted to prove how many flues exist?
Two pots show two outlets on the cap. They do not prove two separate flues all the way down, especially with a withe missing. A flue can be blanked, shared or broken behind a pot that is still there. The survey counted what it could see. It did not trace the paths.
Does one unused fireplace remove the risk?
An unused opening can still be connected to the same stack. The survey did not test whether the flues join. Leaving one grate empty is not evidence of separation. If either opening might be used, or if fumes could still track, a proper look up the flues is still outstanding.