Don’t Fall for Chimney Scams

Has the cold weather reminded you to schedule that gas fireplace repair? When you place a service call, you could assume that your call will bring you a certified chimney sweep, but what if you’re unknowingly inviting a scam artist into your home?

In 2011, The Better Business Bureau (BBB) reportedly received 380 complaints due to chimney sweep scams. In order to protect the 11 million Americans who own fireplaces, the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) and the Chimney Safety Institute of American (CSIA) have provided some helpful tips to ensure business accreditation.

Don’t Fall for Low Prices

When companies offer cheap pricing just to get into the door, this is often a scam at work. If you are unfamiliar with the costs that your fireplace and chimney require, it is smart idea to research the standard rate for a chimney cleaning and inspection. A typical inspection will run you at least $75, whereas a cleaning will generally be $150-$200 and should at least take one hour to complete.

Don’t Become A Target

Scam artists tend to target the elderly through door-to-door high-pressure sales tactics and vague phone calls. Others will try to rope consumers into their scam by pretending to be fire department officials. Although the fire department recommends that you clean your chimney regularly, they cannot endorse businesses or provide personal chimney and fireplace inspections.

Look for Specialized Equipment

Legitimate businesses will provide photos or video services that prove if extensive repairs are needed. For example, the chimney sweeps at Doctor Flue, inc. provide video inspections to all of their customers so that they can see what is needed for their chimneys when a solution is proposed.

Always Check for Credentials

There are currently 1,500 CSIA-certified technicians out of 5,000 chimney companies nationwide. To see if your contractor is affiliated with groups like the CSIA, ask to see their certificate. You can also verify authentic chimney sweep businesses by checking these sources:

• BBB Listings
• Consumer reviews like Angie’s List
• National Fireplace Institute (NFI) certifications
• NCSG Membership

Find A Reliable Chimney Sweep

At Doctor Flue, inc. we are CSIA certified chimney sweeps and NFI certified gas specialists proudly serving the Michigan and Ohio area. In addition, we are members of the NCSG and recipients of the 2011 Angie’s List Super Service Award.

If you have any questions about our services, or would like a schedule an appointment, please contact us at 1-800-GET-FLUE or visit us online at www.doctorflue.com.