Chimney & Fireplace

Do I need to reopen vents if chimney blocked off?

Anonymous user 03/03/2024 - 3.08 PM

I have just bought a 2 bed flat and in the 2 bedrooms there was previously coal fires which were removed approx 30years ago. There is old vents on the walls of the chimney breast and I took one off to replace the cover to find that there is no air coming from it. I brushed it all out and prodded it with a screwdriver and it seems like it's blocked off. I've been advised by friends that these have to be reopened to let air circulate to prevent condensation/dampness. The chimney looks like it has been shortened at somepoint and it looks completely flat at the too as I can't see any cowels. Do I still have to reopen the vents if chimney completely blocked? How will I know if the chimney is completely blocked off? There is a yellowish stain on the coven in one bedroom as if there has been a leak or something but seems dry to touch. Any help and advice would be appreciated as I really don't want to end up with dampness