Choosing the Right Chimney Sweep Service: What to Look For

A clean chimney makes lighting a fire better. You don't have to worry about creosote buildup, air quality will be higher, and you can start the fire with fewer worries about sparks and damage to your home. But all of those benefits start with the peace of mind of knowing you choose the right chimney sweep service for the job. 

At the start, many chimney inspection, cleaning, and sweeping businesses all look the same, and knowing how to pick the right fit feels like guesswork. At Chim Chimney, we want to make sure you have the tools to choose a chimney sweep company that you're confident in. One of the best ways to find the right company is to filter out the ones that don't meet your standards. Organize your search by looking into the company's credentials, track record, and service options. Read through this guide to get started. 

Insurance and Certifications

Whenever you hire a contractor or home service, check their insurance. They should freely give a copy of their certificate of insurance that shows you their coverage levels for different incidents. While this is important for any service, it's even more vital for chimney services. Poor service could leave your home vulnerable to a fire, leave or increase leaks in and around your chimney, or otherwise make your home unsafe. Ask for their insurance details as part of due diligence, and walk away from any service provider who resists. 

Also, look to see what certifications they have. Ideally, they should be certified chimney sweeps under the Chimney Safety Institute of America, licensed under the National Fireplace Institute, and a member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild. These credentials establish their expertise and membership within the professional chimney sweep community.

Referrals and Recommendations

Next, review their testimonials, referrals, and online recommendations. Review both their website and third-party local business directories. Read through reviews and consider both the client's message and the company's response. You're not necessarily looking for a perfect string of 5-star reviews, but you want a company that's courteous, highly rated, and invested in resolving customer concerns.

Ask neighbors, family members, and friends for referrals as you shop around. They may have a list of companies to avoid and companies to look further into. It's not a replacement for research but it can be a strong start.

Services and Packages

Ultimately, your chimney sweep service must be able to provide the services you need. First, some chimney sweeps only specialize in specific types of fireplaces and chimneys. They may also only provide a limited array of services; for example, they may be able to inspect and clean your chimney, but they have to refer out repairs. Opt for a company that provides comprehensive services whenever possible, so you don't have to go back and forth between multiple service providers to make your chimney safe and clean. 

Try to find a company that:

• Cleans and services traditional chimneys, woodburning stoves, gas fireplaces, and pizza ovens

• Provides cleaning, inspection, chimney sweeping, repairs, and installation services

• Can offer ongoing service packages for annual inspections and cleanings so your chimney is always ready for the next season ahead

Chim Chimney: Your Top Choice for Professional Chimney Sweeping

The right chimney sweep service should put your mind at ease and give you all the services you need to use your fireplace throughout the year. Chim Chimney serves homes across Nashville, Tennessee, with comprehensive chimney sweep services, cleaning, inspections, repairs, and more. Reach out today to learn more or to schedule an appointment.

Image Credits: Minerva Studio - Shutterstock