Choosing the right chimney repair company can make all the difference in keeping your fireplace and chimney working properly. You want to be certain that the contractor you choose is trustworthy and highly qualified.
A reputable company will not only tell you what’s wrong, but they’ll show you, either directly or via photos and video. Here are three initial tips for selecting a chimney repair company:
Ask for Referrals
In addition to asking friends and family for referrals, you can find out more about a chimney company by reading online reviews. Look for companies with high ratings on multiple sites and check their credentials.
Choose a company that focuses on long term solutions
A good chimney repair service will recommend repairs that will save you money in the long run, such as a new chimney liner or cap. These repairs may cost more than slapping some sealant on your crack, but they will prevent chimney damage and ensure that you and your family are safe for years to come.
Avoid companies that try to frighten you
A professional chimney company will never use scare tactics to get you to work with them. If they mention carbon monoxide poisoning or house fires in a way that feels alarmist, take your business elsewhere.
Check Online Reviews
Most reputable chimney companies will have a proven track record with many satisfied customers. This means that they have been able to provide quality services on a regular basis for years and their clients keep coming back each year.
Make sure the company has high safety and quality standards and is a member of the CSIA (Chimney Safety Institute of America). This will give you peace of mind that they take their job seriously and have a commitment to excellence.
Also, look for online reviews on sites like Angie’s List and HomeAdvisor. These sites let homeowners share their experiences with different companies and help others find a reliable and trustworthy chimney service.
Choose a company that focuses on long term repairs over cheap temporary fixes. Slapping a little bit of sealant on a crack isn’t going to last and will end up costing you more in the long run. Instead, a good chimney service will tell you what needs to be done and how much it should cost and then recommend the best options that fit within your budget.
Check the License
Sadly, there are some companies that don’t have the proper qualifications to clean or repair chimneys. While anyone can take out an ad in online or newspaper business directories and post flyers around town, you should find out whether the company has certified technicians and liability insurance before making any payments and agreeing to any work.
Chimney repair scams are common, and often involve homeowners who are tricked into paying for expensive repairs they don’t need. These scams can leave homes at greater risk of structural damage, water leaks and carbon monoxide exposure.
Any reputable chimney sweep will always provide a written assessment and photographic or video evidence of damage before recommending any costly repairs. If a chimney company gives you a quote without first performing an inspection, it’s probably a scam. Make sure you ask for a copy of the insurance certificate directly from their insurance carrier to ensure it is valid. This can be done by email, fax or mail.
Check for Insurance
If a chimney repair company is insured, this means that the insurance policy covers any damages to your home or belongings incurred while they are working on your chimney. It’s a good idea to check with the company directly to verify that their insurance coverage is in place and valid.
Chimney cleaning and repairing can involve climbing up on your roof and other potentially dangerous locations, so it’s important to ensure that the company you hire is properly insured. A reputable chimney company will provide you with proof of insurance via email or fax before starting any work.
Some homeowners let their natural instinct to save money lead them to choose a chimney repair company simply because they have the lowest price. This is a mistake that can lead to costly repairs or even serious damage down the road. It’s best to find a company with a proven track record and certification from the right industry groups before you settle on anything.
