Chimney sweeps

2012-01-05T01:18:00Z

Beware of chimney sweep scare tactics
Melissa Sardelli
WPRI.com

This time of year there are plenty of code calls from chimney companies to homeowners offering inexpensive cleanings.

Greg Kendrick says his step-father who owns a 100-year-old Acushnet home recently received a call and agreed to a $50 chimney cleaning.

But as it turns out, according to the homeowner, the company found a whole lot wrong with the chimney – in the tune of more than $2,000 and that was just the deposit.

Licensed chimney sweep Alan Arms says before hiring anyone, make sure the company is licensed – a requirement in both Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

Arms says if they need to do more than just a cleaning, they must pull a permit.

“You want to make sure they’re licensed and insured before giving your credit card number to anyone,” said Arms.

While the homeowner and the company are at odds over the extent of the work needed here, it’s a good idea if you find yourself in this position to get a second, if not 3rd opinion to prevent getting burned.

Call 12 for action contacted the company and they returned the homeowners deposit. In the meantime, be aware of any chimney sweep company that offers too good to be true services, like inexpensive cleanings.

If they find a problem that requires more work, don’t fall for scare tactics and don’t ever pay up front.

Historic Fireplaces at Blithewold

2011-12-22T21:28:21Z

After delivering some restored fireplace tools at the historic Blithewold Mansion in Bristol, RI we took some photos of the beutiful fireplaces. Sometimes the best ideas are from period designs that are original to the era.

Build Boston Conference

2011-11-17T04:08:58Z

Brassworks Fine Home Details

Chimney sweeps

Historic Fireplaces at Blithewold

Build Boston Conference