Chimney Scammers on the Rise

Many homeowners don’t realize how crucial it is to maintain their chimneys properly to keep their homes and families safe. Chimney collapses can and do occur. And when it happens, imagine the damage and potential injuries when two tons of bricks or stones suddenly fall from the roof. It is often the result of neglect, improper cleaning, and low-quality repairs. Additionally, during the winter months, there is often an increase in chimney scams in the Indianapolis area. That’s why homeowners need to remain vigilant and be on the lookout for chimney scammers operating in their neighborhoods.

Why Hire a Certified Chimney Sweep?

While cleaning is an essential function of a professional chimney sweep, their main objective is fire prevention. A Certified Chimney Sweep® is a professional who has:

• Rigorous Training: Certified sweeps must satisfactorily complete thorough training and continuing education to demonstrate their ability to inspect, clean, repair, and install solid- and fossil-fuel heating and ventilation systems, in strict accordance with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards and codes.
• Code of Ethics: All certified chimney sweeps must abide by a strict code of ethics to protect homeowners from scammers.
• Fire Safety Knowledge: They understand the physics of venting and can identify fire and carbon monoxide risks that an amateur would miss.
• Professional Equipment: A certified professional carries all necessary equipment, tools, and supplies required to perform their duties in a clean, responsible manner
• Liability Protection: Certified pros are fully insured, protecting customers from accidental injuries and property damage while working at their homes.

Watch For These Common Chimney Scams

A chimney scam comes in many forms. Some of the most common to be aware of include:

• Unsolicited Knocking: Legitimate chimney companies are too busy to sell door-to-door. Scammers often claim they “just finished a job down the street” and noticed a problem with your chimney.
• “Bait and Switch”: They advertise a $49 “special” to get their foot in the door, then try to sell you “thousands of dollars” in unnecessary repairs once they arrive.
• Fake Evidence: Scammers may show you photos of a damaged chimney that isn’t even yours.
• High-Pressure Fear Tactics: They may claim your chimney is at immediate risk of a fire or collapse to pressure you into signing a contract on the spot.
• Upfront Payments: They demand cash or a large deposit before any work starts, often disappearing before the job is finished.
• Discouraging Second Opinions: A scammer will tell you there “isn’t time” to get another quote because the danger is too great.
• Inferior Materials: They use cheap masonry or improper sealants that will fail within a year, leading to more expensive repairs later.
• Unethical Work: Their repairs do not meet NFPA 211 standards, posing fire, health, and structural hazards.

How to Make Sure Your Chimney Sweep Is Qualified

Before you let anyone into your home, take these three steps:

1. Verify Certification: Visit the CSIA website to see if the technician has an active credential.
2. Check Local Reviews: Look for a consistent history of service in the Indianapolis and Greater Indy area on Google or the Better Business Bureau. Scammers often change business names to avoid detection.
3. Ask for a Written Estimate: A certified sweep will gladly provide you with an itemized estimate before performing any work.

Be On the Lookout for These “Red Flags”

• Unmarked Vehicle: Professional companies typically have branded vehicles and clean, clearly marked uniforms.
• Vague Estimates: If they won’t provide a written, line-itemed quote, politely ask them to leave.
• No ID: If they cannot produce a valid credential from the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) or National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG), do not hire them.

Certified Chimney Sweep Near Me

Don’t waste money on unqualified “experts!” Need a second opinion? Our team of licensed, CSIA-Certified professionals is dedicated to providing code-compliant chimney inspections, professional sweeping, and expert repair services. We proudly serve the entire Greater Indy area, including Brownsburg, Meridian Hills, Mohawk, and Waverly, IN. Please speak with a certified chimney professional by phone or through our contact form.