What to Do When Chimney Sweeps Recommend Different Repairs and Quotes

As certified chimney sweeps, we are often called upon to give consultations and estimates for work we may never actually complete. That’s no problem for us. We enjoy working with everyone who calls us into their home and gives us a chance to win their business.

However, what often happens in our business is that we’re the second or third chimney sweep called in to diagnose a problem and offer an estimate. Usually, the companies that have been called in before us are offering what seem like out-of-line prices and unnecessary repairs.

So, what can homeowners do if they’ve called in numerous chimney sweep and repair companies who are offering not only different quotes but different solutions?

Get it in writing!

Any worthwhile chimney sweep will gladly provide you with a written report to back up his claims for what needs to be repaired in your fireplace or chimney. They should also be equipped to immediately provide you with photographic evidence. If either of these items are not offered to you, count that as a red flag.

Prioritize chimney repairs

We often find deficiencies during regular chimney inspections. However, just because there might be some issues requiring immediate attention doesn’t mean we shouldn’t prioritize some items over others to get your system running safely. Our top concerns are making sure your fire doesn’t escape the fireplace and ensuring carbon monoxide is properly vented from your home. So that will always be our starting point.

Make a decision

At Valley Chimney Sweep & Restoration we’ll never offer you unnecessary repairs to simply drive up the cost of services. We’ll recommend the services and repairs that you need to operate your fireplace safely and efficiently. There are obvious signs that you need immediate repairs to your chimney or fireplace, such as an overpowering smell of smoke in your home, fire coming from the top of your chimney or smoke stains above the fireplace opening. We’ll also look for less obvious signs when we inspect your chimney, but we’ll start with the biggest issues first. As trusted CSIA certified chimney sweeps, we’ll help you make informed decisions about your chimney system.

Try to relax. Let us Handle It

If you’ve recently moved into a new home with a fireplace and your home inspector has noted a long list of problems that must be fixed before it can be used, try not to panic. Thousands of dollars of repairs aren’t necessarily heading your way. Contact the western suburbs most trusted chimney sweep, Valley Chimney Sweep & Restoration. We will provide you with an expert inspection and recommend the needed repairs to get your fireplace ready to go for those freezing Illinois winters.