Many homeowners mistakenly use price as the primary way they find someone to service their chimney system. While we understand the need to balance skill and price, most “affordable” chimney sweeps are uncertified, uninsured, unskilled, or unsure of the inner workings of various heating appliances. Because of this, it is important that homeowners take the time to find a professional chimney sweep – rather than automatically hiring the person who quotes them the lowest price.
How to hire a chimney sweep
Having a truck, a ladder, and a brush does not make someone a chimney sweep! Likewise, the person who offers the lowest rates may not always provide the most comprehensive or complete services. The Chimney Safety Institute of America or CSIA recommends homeowners ask the following questions before hiring a new chimney sweep.
- How long has your company been in business in this area?
While there is nothing wrong with hiring a new company, you want to ensure the chimney sweep you are hiring has the necessary local experience to care for your chimney system. - Can you provide current references?
A good, reputable chimney sweep will be happy to provide you with recent reviews or references! - Do you have any unresolved complaints with the Better Business Bureau?
If you have concerns about the legitimacy of a chimney sweep company, resources like the Better Business Bureau may be able to provide additional information about the company. - Does your company carry business insurance?
Carrying the correct insurance is extremely important; this ensures that you as the homeowner – and the company – are protected in the event of damage to your home or injury to the chimney sweep. - Will a certified chimney sweep be working on my home?
Hiring a CSIA certified chimney sweep is the best way to ensure you are hiring a trained and trusted professional.
Why trust Coopertown Services?
At Coopertown Services, we are proud to be Shelby County’s oldest and largest fireplace and chimney company! For more than 42 years, we have been providing our friends and neighbors with quality, reliable fireplace and chimney services.
As part of our dedication to safety, our chimney sweeps hold the best certifications in the industry, including being CSIA certified, NFI certified, NWCOA certified, and being licensed HVAC contractors. Our staff constantly completed continuing education courses and attend national training classes and conferences, ensuring that we are up to date on the latest safety trends and best practices in the industry.
Still need a reason to trust Coopertown Services? We invite you to read our many reviews! We are committed to providing our customers with the very best care for their fireplace, chimney, HVAC system, and dryer vents – at a price that is still affordable.
Avoid getting scammed with these five tips!
Unfortunately, there are many “chimney sweeps” who are far more interested in making money than in making safe, smart choices for their customers. As with any home service, homeowners should do their research before hiring a chimney sweep to ensure they are working with a certified professional. The following 5 tips can help prevent homeowners from getting scammed when hiring a chimney sweep.
1. If it’s too good to be true, it probably is
If a company’s pricing seems too good to be true, it probably is! Scammers are known for quoting prices that are significantly lower than other companies in the area. They often use this as a tactic to get their foot in the door, insisting that additional work needs to be done or other services are required – at a serious upcharge.
2. Don’t fall for pressure to act immediately
A professional chimney sweep will not use pushy scare tactics to bully customers into additional repairs or services. If your chimney sweep recommends additional work, such as relining the chimney or replacing the chimney cap, don’t be afraid to ask for a second opinion or get additional bids for the project. A chimney sweep who pressures you into immediate action may be trying to make a quick buck – not do what is best for your chimney system.
3. Check for professional lettering and phone book listings
Fly by night chimney sweeps often operate out of unmarked vehicles or those with removable, magnetic signs. Legit, local companies will have clearly marked vehicles with professional signage and lettering – as well as a local phone number. Another excellent resource is to check for their company name in a physical phone book; while online webpages can be updated to show a local address, the paper phone book cannot be changed as easily!
4. Check for state or national certifications
Before allowing a chimney sweep to work on your fireplace, check for proper licensing, certifications, and insurance. Professional organizations can include groups such as the CSIA, National Chimney Sweep Guild, and National Fireplace Institute. A legitimate chimney company will also carry insurance that protects both homeowners are their chimney sweeps in the event of accidental damage or injury.
Call us today to schedule your next chimney services!
The experienced staff at Coopertown Services have been serving our friends and neighbors in Shelby County since 1977. To schedule your next chimney sweeping or other fireplace services, call us today at 901-358-777 or schedule online here. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you to maintain a safe and healthy chimney system for years to come