OK so you’ve got a raccoon in your chimney…first and most importantly DO NOT send your three year old down there to ask it to leave. FIRST…make sure the child is tightly secured to a rope before lowering him or her down into the chimney. We kid, of course but honestly before you go about hiring a service to come and solve a problem like an animal infestation or something as simple as soot and creosote buildup it’s important to consider a few things.
First, you’ll want to make sure that the company or individual you’re looking into has the “cred” to get the job done and done well. Because of the increases in wood burning stoves and fireplaces in homes (back in the 70’s and 80’s) there has been an increase in the demand for folks like us and unfortunately, an increase in the amount of bogus chimney sweep operations out there. Most sweep companies are associated with national trade associations with guidelines for training and services and any individual sweepers can receive certification through local fire safety training centers. In any event best to give them your own personal before proceeding with hiring one. Capice?
Another practical concern is the availability of such noble fellows like us. We are pretty slammed come early October as folks want to be prepared to have fires in front of the Christmas tree….blah blah blah. You might want to schedule a chimney inspection and cleaning in early-mid September and beat the rush…..as it were.
Other warning signs and things to consider are: INSURANCE! Make sure the company is insured both their workers and their vehicles. Hey we’re human…..accidents happen. Also if a company is touting “free inspections” be suspicious. Most likely they’ll magically find something wrong and also the company inspecting your chimney holds the liability so there is going to be a cost to you regardless. There is no such thing as a free (lunch) chimney inspection.
Most of all….go with your gut. Hey you’re smart right? Talk to your friends, family and neighbors. Word of mouth advertising is the best kind of marketing a company can hope for. Don’t over think something you can figure out on your own!