Home Repairs: Rip-Off #4 – Chimneys

In a classic bait and switch scam, a chimney sweep comes to your door telling you he’s just fixed a neighbor’s chimney and is providing an inspection at a reduced cost of $39.95. After inspecting your chimney, he might claim to have located some issues, saying you need to have a new liner, for instance. This is something that could end up costing you a few thousand dollars or more.

There’s no question that fireplace chimneys can be hazardous. A blackish, oily substance known as creosote that accumulates inside the chimney could catch fire if it’s more than a quarter-inch thick. Occasionally, but not as frequent as some chimney sweeps would have you believe, a chimney that’s blocked up can emit carbon monoxide fumes into your house.

Authorities advise an annual inspection to examine for creosote buildup and the structural soundness of the chimney itself. This typically will cost anywhere from $100 to $250 (not that ridiculous $39.95), and if a cleaning is necessary, another $100 to $150 can be expected. Only hire a certified chimney sweep that has been taught and tested by the Chimney Safety Institute of America. Also, watch the chimney sweep as he conducts his inspection. Lately, chimney sweeps are making use of video cameras that are fed down the flue, so ask to see the video and have them explain it to you as you watch. If he refuses, he’s probably scamming you.

Prior to searching for a qualified chimney sweep, contact your local fire department. Some conduct inspections free of charge.

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