http://www.ncsg.org/ The National Chimney Sweep Quild is a great source for licenced and certified professionals in your area. If they don't do the work, they will know someone in your area who does.
Philip Anderson
HDR Remodeling
Berkeley Ca
No, but have you thought about contacting a manufacturer and asking for a local referral. Sometimes it is an unknown fact but home remodeling product manufacturers have authorized dealers and installation crews listed on their site! This guarantees the best match. We always explain to homeowners having a certified installer is more important than price! Residential Renovations works very hard to make sure all installers from roofing, siding and windows to decking, sunrooms and beyond is installed by professional crew members who are trained as the manufacturer warranties. Good luck with your project! You can visit our website at www.ResidentialRenovations.com to learn more about Residential Renovations - serving Ohio and Michigan homeowners!
For a great number of years, I was a mason and chimney sweep before rolling out to full bathroom and ktichen remodeling. It still is my first love. Please have a certified, licenced chimney sweep out to look at the chimney. /http://www.ncsg.org/ can put you in contact with a certified chimney professional in your area. Please do not use it until it is checked.
Philip Anderson
Berkeley Ca
Hard to say based on the limited description available. Is the fireplace constructed completely of masonry? or is there an insert in the firebox? Is it framed walls with stone/brick veneer? Is the chimney a metal pipe or clay flu?
If you haven't used it and it is cracking, I would suggest that the foundation was possibly inadequate and it is settling.
Or the materials used were inferior materials, or the mortar wasn't a quality mix.
There are many factors that could be the cause. Hard to say based on the limited information.
I will say that converting from a wood fireplace to a gas fireplace shouldn't be much of an issue. Converting from gas to wood on the other hand is virtually impossible without major remodeling and expense.