Avoiding Chimney Sweep Scams
You have the responsibility of taking care of your chimney. You should be aware of the different things that need to be done on a regular basis to operate it properly. There are a several ways to maintain your chimney, and one of these is to consult with a professional in the field. You are going to find that a lot of people will pass themselves off as chimney professionals, but they do not have the proper credentials. Their usual tactic is to pass themselves off as experts in chimneys, but in fact they are not. They do not have the same training and credentials that real professionals have. According to some reports, they will enter your home, and begin to act like a chimney inspector. They will even appear to be checking the checking your chimney for an inspection. Beware ours is not a regulated industry. Members of CSIA (sweeping certified) and C-DET (dryer vent certified) will have proper credintials and identifacation with them. A reputable company will also have insurance to cover several areas, general liability, auto, workers compensation, and companys should bond their employees.
Be wise and ask questions, if a contractor does not want to give you that information, it could be because he doesn’t carry it. This is your home and your investment take care if it.