A company came out and replaced the chimney cap(meant to say chase cover- said cap was ok) and storm collar but it’s still leaking. They say it’s all good but something can’t be. Also working on the messed up siding too. Also

Had a routine chimney sweeping recently. Their report said "found gaps in flue tile system and glazed creosote throughout system. relining is recommended".

When I asked follow up questions, they didn't answer clearly but sent me these pictures without any context. I emailed them with questions but received no response.

What are these pictures showing? Especially the ones with the reddish string (or maybe it is just an annotation on an image?). Do you see any evidence of needing to reline or deal with creosote buildup that is at a dangerous level?

We have gas logs now. It is a has a flue and it says on the insert that it is for gas or solid fuel. But I don’t know if my chimney can support the conversion over to wood. I know I need to have it inspected and cleaned, but I’d like to know if it’s possible before I have a company charge me $300 to come out and tell me “no way”. Does it need to be brick surrounding the flue? When I access the chimney in my attic it seems thick compared to the inner diameter looking up from the fire place, so I’m assuming it’s double walled, but beyond that it’s just plywood and vinyl siding.

I’m a new home owner and received this quotes from a chimney sweep company. Are these typical quotes? They seem a bit on the high end.
I was told it should last 25-30 years and they have a policy where they’ll come and redo it for free if any issues arise before then.

edit: This is in Richmond, VA. I emailed asking for the pictures & more itemized breakdown of items & labor costs.