Open the phone book and you can find dozens of mechanics, plumbers, construction companies, and more. When the price is right how do you figure out which company is best suited for the job? The chimney industry has become a large one as more emphasis has been placed on chimney safety in recent years, so finding the best company can be difficult. Just like other industries, there are a few things to look for when finding the professional for you.
Check Credentials
If you ask a chimney sweep company for credentials they should have no problem producing documentation. Most companies will even have such documents displayed on the wall. Since 1983 the standard by which chimney sweeps are measured is the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® (CCS). The CSIA standard stands alone in the industry for more than one reason:
Non-profit status
The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to a mission of educating homeowners for chimney safety. CSIA is even governed by a body of volunteers who are industry professionals and technical experts. The best minds in the industry come together to provide the best services, standards, and instruction.
Code of Ethics
A CSIA certified chimney sweep and a chimney company that adheres to the standards of CSIA also follows a stringent code of ethics designed to protect homeowners from scams in the industry. If a member violates this code their membership can be revoked.
Accreditation
CSIA standards are regulated by the Indiana State Workforce Innovation Council, Office of Career and Technical Schools. This is the same standard that schools of technology must adhere in the state of Indiana.
Presentation and Professionalism
Something as simple as a company vehicle can tell you how serious a company is. If someone shows up in a beat-up, old car, you might want to rethink the appointment. Look for a company that has a professional presentation, a business vehicle, uniforms, and name tags.
Sometimes, despite our best efforts we can be dooped by false documentation and pretend-technicians. Avoid this experience by starting your search off right. Find a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep in your area. Pristine Sweeps is one of the only chimney sweep companies in Seattle that maintains a CSIA certification. This is a standard we have for all of our technicians, and our company is also a member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG), another standard you should look for when searching for a chimney company.
While so many scams are happening during the holidays, don’t fall prey to such things. Just as you protect your home and family by scheduling regular chimney maintenance, you should also protect your finances from scams and exploitation. Stick with the most trust company in Seattle, and choose Pristine Sweeps. In business since 2008, our team is passionate about the safety and comfort of our customers in Seattle and beyond.
Call Pristine Sweeps at 206-574-8414 or request an appointment online.