How to Find a Chimney Sweep

Finding the right chimney sweep is crucial to maintain fireplace safety.

There are few things more comforting than a roaring fire on a cold winter's night. That roaring fire, however, can easily turn to raging disaster without proper maintenance of your fireplace and chimney. According to the National Fire Protection Association, chimneys and fireplaces should be inspected for a buildup of the combustible substance called creosote and other fire hazards at least once a year. With the safety of your family and home at stake, you won't want to hire just anyone to clean your chimney. Careful consideration and research should be applied when searching for qualified chimney sweeps in your area.

Things You'll Need

• References
• Internet access
• Phone book
• Newspaper

Instructions

1. Ask people you know for references. The most reliable way to find a chimney sweep is through the personal experiences of others. Ask family, friends and even acquaintances if they are able to recommend a company or individual to clean your chimney. These experiences will be a valuable source of information on who to contact and who you should avoid.

2. Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and conduct a search for chimney sweeps in your area. Begin the search by entering your ZIP code on the home page. When you are transferred to the BBB website for your city, click the accredited businesses tab and enter "Chimney Sweep" in the search field. Click on the resulting links to get contact information, ratings and any customer complaint history. You may also conduct a general search for chimney sweeps by checking the non-accredited businesses on the BBB website. To do this, click the "Check Out a Business or Charity" link and the "Type of Business" tab. Fill in the type of business field and enter your ZIP code or city and state.

3. Search association websites such as the Chimney Safety Institute of America or the National Chimney Sweep Guild. Members of these associations will be certified and are held to a certain standard of education and conduct. Visit the websites to these associations and conduct a search for members in your area.

4. Browse newspapers and phone book listings. These types of advertisements are a reliable source of finding chimney sweeps in your area. When looking over the listed businesses ads, write down the names and phone numbers of sweeps you are interested in. If you are unable to research the company online, ask for references when you call to inquire about service.

Tips & Warnings

• When looking for a chimney sweep, always ask for proof of insurance before making a decision.

• Be cautious of chimney sweeps who have no available references or offer lower than average prices.

References

• National Fire Protection Association
• Better Business Bureau
• Chimney Safety Institute of America
• National Chimney Sweep Guild