1983 Home of a prefabricated rusted chimney

This prefabricated chimney had refractory panels which had large cracks but on examining chimney flue, it was discovered that it was very rusted and hazardous to use.

Anyone with an older chimney and fireplace of this type should take pictures up the flue to check if there are issues of this type with their chimney.  They should have a chimney inspection if any rust is observed.