Ignorance is bliss.....Now what!?

[drb0587]

Previously posted on my current situation here:
https://www.hearth.com/talk/threads/advice-needed-on-wall-thimble.86489/

I decided to go ahead and open up the wall around the existing thimble and confirmed my fears....combustibles way too close. Looks like the brick hearth went over wood paneling (super trendy) and dry wall. Additionally, there are wooden wall studs a few inches to the right of the thimble and another a little bit farther to the left. To top it all off electrical wiring is passing through the studs (most likely to an outlet to the right of the hearth).


What can I do to make this thimble compliant? Will the studs have to be moved or replaced with a non-combustible? Any advice or is it time to call in the pros?

Thanks!

 

[begreen]

A thimble made of class A pipe will reduce clearances down to 2". Otherwise, here's an article on the proper method:
https://www.hearth.com/econtent/index.php/articles/passing_a_chimney