Anyone had their chimney breast/stack/flue rebuilt? Messy?

[fruittea]

Am in need of some idea as to the amount of mess involved in taking down and rebuilding a chimney, inside and out, in order to relocate a coal fire which is not currently central. How messy is it really (the builder says very...), is there a way of minimising the mess involved? Any experiences, tips etc gratefully received.

TIA

outside - as in the top above the roof - no mess at all really.

Inside I would think a whole different story. Knocking down walls is very messy and then the chimney presumably is cacked in coal or wood dust.

If it was me and it had to be done I would empty the whole room and tape up all the entrances that won't be used, and put plastic over the door that can be taped from the inside while the work is being done.

Another issue is how much does the chimney support the walls/rooms above ?