The previous owners of our home removed a chimney breast at the back of the house on the ground and first floors. Now, we have damp patches localised around the area where the chimney breast would have been; I expect that there are little gaps in the external wall through which moisture is entering and wrecking our décor!

I'm not sure whether a builder would be best to deal with this sort of job or another type of tradesperson. Has anyone had this sort of work done and been pleased with the outcome? I would like someone who will guarantee the work: obviously, replastering and redecorating will need to happen (again!) after the job is done and I am loath to go to such time and expense only for damp patches to appear again the next time we get a bit of bad weather.

Thank you for any suggestions!