If you’ve chosen to forgo expensive gas or electric heating to use the tried and true method of wood burning stoves, it’s important to know how to hire a licensed and qualified chimney sweep in Colorado Springs. Consider the following five tips when hiring a chimney sweep to keep your house safe.
Ask for Company Credentials
Chimney sweeping is an unregulated industry, but thankfully there are nationally recognized standards that quality companies are accredited with.
Make sure when you research a chimney sweep in Colorado Springs, you ask if they’re licensed and accredited by agencies such as The National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) and the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), to name a few. Avoid doing business with people or companies who don’t hold themselves to these national standards.
Avoid Scams
Unfortunately, chimney sweeping scams exist where someone may call and offer to clean your chimney at a low cost, but take off with the money before the work is ever done. As mentioned above, if a person or company is not properly licensed and accredited, it’s possible they may be a scam. Do your research and avoid these local scammers.
Consider Availability
The busy seasons for chimney sweepers are August through December. During these months, you may have to wait based on availability. Some homes which rely solely on wood heat may require three to four sweeps throughout the winter season. Consider booking an appointment in spring or summer to prepare in advance and avoid the fall and winter rush.
Consider How Long They’ve Been in Business
Expert chimney sweeps are required to have credentials and it takes talent and experience to do a job right. Finding chimney sweep companies who have been in business for over five years and carry a great track record with happy clients are important factors when considering a reputable chimney sweep company in Colorado Springs.
Is the Company Insured?
Make sure to confirm the company carries valid business liability insurance to cover any possible damage to personal property. If an accident takes place, you want to make sure you’ll be covered.
You Get What You Pay For
Just like with anything else, if a chimney sweeper offers you services well below market value (under $130), you’ll likely not be given the service you deserve and they may end up falling under the category of not being properly licensed or insured. A deal isn’t always a deal when the job isn’t done right or according to standards.
If you’re looking for a locally owned, licensed, and accredited chimney sweep in Colorado Springs with the right talent and expertise for the job – we can help you with that. Dr. SOOT has been delivering expert service as a chimney sweep in Colorado Springs since 1989. If you’re looking for quality, honest service to make your home safe for the winter months, don’t hesitate to contact us for more information at 719-598-4466.
