The average homeowner does not know too much about the chimney that vents byproducts away from the fireplace and the home, aside from the basics. You may know about the damper and about selecting seasoned firewood. You may have also heard that you are supposed to have your chimney cleaned once a year. But do you know how to spot an honest, legitimate company to take on that job?
How to Spot a Chimney Cleaning Scam
Unfortunately, many criminals prey on those who may not know much about their chimneys. They assume that homeowners have not been able to get up on the roof and check out a problem, so it’s easier to sell them a service they don’t really need.
We don’t want anyone to be taken advantage of. Here are a few ways to spot a potential chimney cleaning scam.
- Technicians show up without warning. If someone knocks on your door offering to clean a chimney, it could be a scam. Always research a company before you hire them, to ensure they are legitimate.
- The price seems unrealistically low. If a chimney cleaning price seems suspiciously lower than other companies’ prices, trust that feeling. They may start cleaning the chimney, with every intention of scaring you with a sudden danger (that may not exist) that will cost and arm and a leg.
- They ask for money in advance. You should not have to give out your credit card number or banking information over the phone, nor should you put down a deposit before the work begins.
What to Do Instead
You need chimney cleaning each year if you want to prevent chimney fires and feel confident using the fireplace this winter. That’s no scam. However, it’s important that you do your research and seek out a company that’s right for the job.
We recommend finding a CSIA (Chimney Safety Institute of America) certified chimney sweep. These chimney sweeps are held up to the highest of national standards, and they are honest technicians that you can trust.
Contact the CSIA-certified chimney experts at 2nd Generation Chimneys, Inc. for chimney cleaning and inspections in Minneapolis, MN.