There are many different chimney inspectors from which to choose, and it can be difficult to decide who will do the job right for the best value. Below, you will discover a few tips for making sure that your chimney inspection company is the right one for the job.
Ask Questions about the Company
One of the best things you can do when it comes to hiring a chimney inspector or company is to ask a variety of questions about the business itself. These questions should be easy for the inspector to answer, as well. They include:
- How long have you been in business?
- Do you have valid liability insurance to protect me and my home in case of an accident?
- Will the inspector who comes to my home be certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)?
- Do you guarantee your work?
These things will go a long way toward helping you make the best choice. You should look for a company or inspector with several years in business, ample liability insurance, and CSIA certification. Some inspectors will guarantee any repairs they provide, so be sure to ask about this, too.
Ask for References
Another great way to ensure you make the best choice involves asking the company representative you speak with for references. They should be able to provide you with a list of current or past clients that you can contact about their experiences. Though it is important to take complaints with a grain of salt, pay attention to these references and watch for any potentially negative patterns that may indicate a problem.
Search the Web
The internet is a wealth of information just waiting to be discovered, and the good news is that you can find information about every single chimney inspection company in the country with a simple search. Check things like the Better Business Bureau to see if there are any unresolved complaints. Visit the company’s website and check out things like their mission statement, guarantees, and reviews. Finally, and perhaps the most important of these, visit the company’s various social media pages – Facebook, Twitter, and more. It is here that you will find the most candid information, and it will help you make a better decision.
Experience Matters
Your home is your safe haven, so it is important that you choose an inspector with plenty of experience in picking out and resolving problems. Remember that individuals who are new to the industry must participate in apprenticeships, which means they work alongside one of the most experienced individuals in their company. Though having an apprentice on-site is not an issue and you should not be immediately concerned if that’s the case, make sure that the chimney inspector accompanying that apprentice has plenty of experience. Without it, there’s a larger margin for error, and this could lead to some devastating consequences.
When it comes to hiring a chimney inspector, there’s much more to consider than just price. Like anything else, when it comes to hiring a professional to perform chimney inspections, you will often get what you pay for. Use the information above to find your best options, then consider price and value. This will ensure the best possible experience.
