Before hiring a chimney sweep to perform an annual chimney sweep and inspection, it is important to check out the qualifications of the company you are hiring. These maintenance services for your chimney protect you from the risk of chimney fires and carbon monoxide leaks-which protects your home and your family. Given that information, you need to be sure the chimney company you hire sweeps and inspects your chimney correctly and carefully. Perhaps the best ways to know the chimney sweep is qualified is to check to see if they have been certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America. For companies to receive this certification, the chimney experts must undergo training, pass exams and agree to follow the CSIA Code of Ethics-which includes promising to behave honestly, fairly and professionally on every job site that they visit.
Has the company been in business long?
The CSIA stresses that you as a homeowner ask this question to be sure the company is not only a legitimate business, but they are trustworthy as well. One of the most popular chimney maintenance scams involves a company opening, closing, and reopening under different names in different towns, so finding out how long the company has been serving the area can ease your mind and assure you that you are going into business with reliable professionals.
Can the company provide substantial references?
Most businesses today will have a page on online review sites-such as; Yelp, Google, and Angie’s List, where their customers can leave feedback of services they have received. If the company does not have any pages or is reluctant to give you any information about their online review pages, this could be a serious red flag and you should avoid this company at all costs. It is nearly impossible to have all positive reviews from customers, but no business should ignore negative feedback. By choosing Guaranteed Chimney of Westchester, you can be assured that your chimney and home are in great hands.
Does the company have a liability insurance policy that is valid and can protect your home?
If the answer to this question is no, it is in your best interest to keep looking for another chimney sweep company. Without this insurance, you and you alone will have to pay for any damages that may occur to your home as the result of an accident. You could also be liable for medical bills if the professional at your home were to get injured while working.
If you happen to live in the Westchester area and need a qualified and professional chimney sweep, contact us at Guaranteed Chimney of Westchester. Our certified chimney sweeps are here to service all of your chimney needs-from sweeps to cleanings to repairs-Guaranteed Chimney does it all.