FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS


Is it true that chimney sweeps/cleanings cost less than $40.00?
No.  Consumer Reports published several fraud alert articles regarding the cost of chimney cleanings.  Most advertised specials for chimney cleanings are a way for a business to get through your door in order to use "scare tactics"to get more money from you for unnecessary chimney repairs.  In recent years, there have been several NYC fireplace inspection scams and NYC chimney cleaning scams. Click on link below to read further details from Consumer Reports:

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/home-garden/news/chimney-frauds-11-07/overview/chimney-frauds-ov.htm

Is a license required to perform chimney sweeps/cleanings?
Yes.  Depending on which county you live in, most chimney professionals fall under the category of Home Improvement Contractors and should have a license and insurance to provide you with.  Most counties also have websites in which you can look up a business to verify this information.

This is also true for NYC dryer vent cleaning.

How long does it take to have my chimney swept/cleaned?
Cleanings and inspections require 1-2 hours.  For chimneys that are severely dirty and/or damaged, cleanings and detailed levels of inspections that require removing parts of the chimney or fireplace will take over 2 hours.  Please click on the link below to read further details from Consumer Reports:

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/magazine-archive/2010/january/home-garden/chimney-myths/overview/chimney-myths-ov.htm