BOLO: Chimney Scammers on the Rise

Professional chimney sweeps are notoriously busy during the winter fire-burning season in the Tri-State area. They spend their days responding to service calls for smoky fireplaces, leaky chimneys, and other issues. Unfortunately, this peak season also brings a rise in chimney scammers who prey on unsuspecting homeowners. By the time a homeowner realizes the work was unnecessary or poorly done, the con artist has disappeared with the money. To protect your wallet, your home, and your family from inferior repairs or improper sweeping, be on the lookout for the following clues:

Common Chimney Scams to Avoid

Be on the lookout for these common scams that scammers often use to trick homeowners in the Tri-State area:

• The “Bait and Switch”: They offer an “unbelievable” deal (e.g., a $49 cleaning). Once the “sweep” arrives, they claim to find “major structural damage” that requires thousands of dollars in immediate repairs.
• The Scare Tactic: Scammers may exaggerate the condition of your chimney, suggesting that your home and family are in immediate danger, pressuring you into making an on-the-spot decision. It’s important to approach such claims with caution and seek a second opinion from a trusted professional.
• The Invisible Repair: They claim to have applied a sealant or repaired a liner, but have actually done nothing, knowing most homeowners don’t know how to check.
• The Phantom Company Scam: Many scammers create fake local business listings on Google or Facebook, often with hundreds of “5-star” reviews that are purchased or generated by bots. When you call, you reach a distant call center that dispatches an uncertified, untrained subcontractor in an unmarked vehicle who has no real affiliation with the company you thought you hired.

Why Only Hire Certified Chimney Sweeps

A chimney is a complex ventilation system. If it fails, the results can be catastrophic—ranging from structural problems to health and safety hazards. Certified professionals must complete rigorous training every two years to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise of solid- and fossil-fuel heating and ventilation systems.

• Code of Ethics: Every CSIA-certified sweep must sign a professional Code of Ethics that requires rendering services fairly and honestly.
• Adhere to Industry Standards: A Certified Chimney Sweep® must follow NFPA 211 standards, which most jurisdictions’ fire codes have adopted.
• Are Fully Insured: A chimney professional will carry liability insurance, protecting homeowners in the event of injury or property damage on your premises.
• Professional Equipment: Professionals use specialized equipment, supplies, and tools to inspect the entire chimney, ventilation system, and attached appliances.

Questions to Ask When Hiring a Chimney Professional

Before letting anyone into your home to service your chimney or fireplace, ask these four critical questions to determine whether they are a qualified professional:

1. “Are you CSIA Certified?” The Chimney Safety Institute of America is the industry standard.
2. “Can you provide proof of valid liability insurance?” Do not take their word for it; ask to see a certificate.
3. “Will you provide a written, itemized estimate and photos of the damage?” A reputable sweep will show you exactly what is wrong using photos or video.
4. “How long has your company been in business in this area?” Scammers are often “fly-by-night” operations with no local roots.

Don’t Get Scammed: Be on the Lookout for These Red Flags

If you notice any of these warning signs, walk away:

• Unsolicited Calls or Visits: Reputable sweeps are usually booked weeks in advance during the winter. They don’t need to go door-to-door or use “robocalls.”
• Unmarked Vehicles: Professional companies take pride in their branding. Be wary of workers arriving in unmarked white vans or personal trucks.
• Pressure for Cash Upfront: Never pay the full amount before the work is completed.
• No Identification: If they cannot produce a photo ID and proof of certification upon arrival, do not let them in.

Certified Chimney Sweep Professionals in the Tri-State Area

Don’t risk your home to an unqualified sweep? Call Chimney Specialists today and let the Tri State’s most trusted certified professionals clean and inspect your chimney and fireplace. We proudly serve Farley, IA; The Galena Territory, IL; Platteville, WI; and surrounding communities in southwest Wisconsin, northwest Illinois, and northeast Iowa. Schedule your chimney inspection today!