Your Better Business Bureau offers these chimney sweeping tips:
• Get recommendations from family and friends. If they’re pleased with the chimney sweep, most likely you’ll be too.
• Get a written estimate on company letterhead, detailing everything agreed upon.
• Consider the chimney sweep’s reputation, years of services and services provided.
• Be wary of anyone showing up in an unmarked vehicle.
• Make sure you feel comfortable with the chimney sweep.
• Determine if the chimney sweep belongs to a professional organization like CSIA. Professional organizations typically offer continuing education.
• Be sure chimney sweeps are insured and bonded.
• Don’t pay cash. Pay by check or credit card.
Remember, burning a safe fire this winter should be your priority. Clear the area around the hearth of debris, decorations and flammable materials. Also, leave glass doors open while burning a fire. Leaving the doors open ensures the fire receives enough air and keeps creosote from building up in the chimney. If you don’t have glass doors, make sure you use a fireplace screen.
If you have any questions regarding chimney sweeps, you can always get help from your BBB, such as a list of more than a dozen BBB Accredited chimney sweeps and business reviews on ones you’re considering. Visit www.bbb.org or call (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301.
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