Chimney fire does $53,000 damage to Elgin home

A chimney fire at a home on the 300 block of Melrose Avenue in Elgin did approximately $53,000 damage, authorities said.

Firefighters were called to the home Monday at 5:36 p.m. after receiving a report of smoke coming from the walls next to the fireplace.

After overhauling the area around the fireplace, the fire was found in the rear outside brick wall of the fireplace, where wood and insulation contained within the wall were burning.

The homeowner told firefighters they noticed smoke coming from the wall earlier in the day, but did not report it after it ceased, authorities said.

The exterior of the fireplace and areas outside the home received extensive damage, authorities said. The building was deemed habitable by inspectors.

No firefighters or residents were injured in the blaze.