A chimney sweep refers to a contractor having the training to inspect your chimneys, and repair and clean them. Today, the chimney sweeping business is very popular and has become a big industry. Many people have opened up this business, as no huge capital investment is needed at the initial stages. Naturally, customers can never be quite sure about which companies are trustworthy, given that there are quite a few inferior service providers. You should consider the following things in order to find and hire a good Chimney sweeping agency in your region.

Time and experience in Chimney sweeping

You should compare how long each agency has been doing business. Verify with consumer protection agencies, such as the Better Business Bureau, to know whether there are any unresolved complaints filed in their names. Make sure that they come with valid workers’ comp insurance and liability, so that you would not have to pay up for damages in case of accidents. You should go through customer reviews and request references on websites such as AngliesList.com in order to find out what prior customers are talking regarding individual chimney relining and cleaning businesses.

Certification

Look for chimney contractor in your region that come certified. There are organizations in the USA that govern the industry and offer certifications such as Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), National Chimney Sweeps Guild (NCSG) and Certified Chimney Professionals (CCP). There are trade associations in the UK that regulate the industry, such as The Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps (GMCS), Independent Chimney Sweeps (APICS), The National Association of Chimney Sweeps (NACS) and The Association of Professional.

Training

Enough training is needed to sweep chimneys. The chimneysweeper professionals should have enough training to be able to repair damages, ensure combustible clearance, remove airflow blockage, properly check construction and remove creosote deposits thoroughly. Some companies also use various specialized tools such as scan cameras or x-ray machines for spotting damages such as cracks or holes.

Rates

Finally, you should also compare the rates of various chimney sweep companies. Irrespective of how competitive the rates are, you have to keep in mind that low rates might suggest inferior chimney cleaning services upper marlboro md. Always keep in mind that the inspection and cleaning of chimneys should properly be done, so that there are no hazards for you or your family members. With a reputable agency, you can enjoy sitting by your fireplace on a cold, wintry day.