Don’t Get Burned: Safeguarding Against Scams in the Chimney Industry

When you have a concern about your fireplace it is difficult to determine what exactly it is. You can’t climb up a ladder and look around your chimney for issues. Well, you might be able to, but it wouldn’t be recommended. Or issues you may have with your washer or dryer you can google and get some answers. If you have issues with your car, there usually is something that can alert you to the cause. But when it comes to your chimney, it is very difficult to get a layman’s idea as to what is going on.

Don’t Get Scammed! Be aware, there are people out there looking for a quick buck. Not all are ethical. Here are some things that you should watch out for.

Unnecessary Repairs That Are Urgent

You may have made an appointment for a chimney inspection. You got a recommendation from an acquaintance. It’s the day of the inspection. You have everything ready. They inspect your chimney and come to you with “bad news.” There is a very costly repair that is needed right away. Don’t be fooled. Sometimes they even show up with pictures from another chimney, not yours. We will discuss how to avoid scams like this a little later in this article.

No Show or Ghosting

You know that you should have an annual inspection. You look around and grab a deal from a local periodical. They require a deposit to secure an appointment. You pay the deposit. On the day of the appointment, no one shows up. You try to call over and over again with no luck. You’ve been scammed.

Bait and Switch

Don’t be fooled by a very inexpensive service call. There is a company that comes knocking at your door. They claim that they were at a neighbor’s house doing a chimney inspection. Since they were in the area, they can do a chimney inspection at your house for a very discounted rate. Only to find that they “find” a very expensive repair that is needed right away.

How to Protect Yourself

Check credentials

The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) is a nationally recognized organization. Be sure that your chimney sweep is certified with them.

Do Your Research

Ask around. Check references. Don’t pick a chimney sweep unless you do all your research.

Contact Burlington Fireplace

It is important to form a relationship with a professional chimney sweep. This will help when repairs or maintenance is needed. Burlington Fireplace is your go-to contact for everything related to your fireplace. Whether it is a chimney sweep or a full inspection we are here to help. We have been servicing our customers since 1995.   

When you need service of any kind, call Burlington Fireplace at 262-763-3522. Our technicians are trained in everything from caps to masonry. We will schedule your appointment on your terms.