Chimney surprise

[OLLIE31]

Hello to everyone, I am new and had a question about my chimney. I just bought the house last year and wanted a chimney inspection just to be safe. Nothing major inside the chimney but a big shocker on the outside (plywood). Is this normal or should it be removed. Thanks for any help.

 

[begreen]

It's just a chase. As long as the clearance inside the chase to any combusibles is proper, then it's safe. As for it's weather tightness, that's a separate issue. With no flashing and painted plywood it doesn't look like it will last long. Check for water intrusion inside the chase, especially at the bottom.