I have no idea how to replace these

[newOwnerOldHouse]

Hi all,
Apologies if I've posted in the wrong place, I am new to the site but found hearth.com recommended for helpful expert advice!
I just bought an old victorian house in Scotland and there are two fires downstairs. Both currently rather worn, ugly electric fires.
I want to replace them with multi fuel log burners but I have no idea where to start!
One of them appears to have concrete blocks holding it up and I'm a little nervous to find out what's behind it.
Since it's victorian, there are two chimneys but they appear to be blocked off.

Is it as simple as getting somebody to re-open (if that' the right term!) the chimneys and put the log burners in?
Any advice about the concrete blocks appreciated 🤣

 

[begreen]

This will require a local certified sweep for eyes-on-site to inspect the existing chimneys. They may have been blocked off for safety reasons. A modern wood-burning insert will require relining the chimney with an insulated stainless liner sized to the insert.

Visit some stove shops to look at options, determine size requirements, and get some names of reliable, certified sweeps/installers. Take your time to learn about options.

 

[newOwnerOldHouse]

Thank you!! I will see who I can find locally to come back a look at the chimneys.