Chimney cleaning in Clinton, CT

This is the AA-MSA Inspection blog (www.aa-msa.com). AA-MSA Inspector's write about their actual building inspection and environmental testing experiences. This blog post discusses fireplace use and chimney's.

If you are purchasing a a home, be sure to have the fireplace inspected. There is no way to know when the chimney was last cleaned and evaluated by a licensed professional. We routinely recommend that all chimney(s) in a structure be periodically (including those used for heating and/or hot water) cleaned and evaluated by a licensed professional. How often does a fireplace chimney need to be cleaned? If it is used more than three times a week it should be done every year. One clear sign that it needs attention is if soot falls from the damper when it is opened.
But beware ... The CT BBB warns consumers about chimney cleaning con game.

Dishonest operators use fear, high pressure tactics and lowball estimates to cheat consumers. – In light of the recent arrest of two New York men who tried to cheat a Milford homeowner, Connecticut Better Business Bureau is warning consumers about chimney cleaning scams. The arrests followed an investigation by the Dept of Consumer Protection (DCP), which alleges the men turned a $39.95 chimney cleaning estimate into a recommendation for $3,200 in unnecessary repairs. When a contractor tells you that your life is in danger or part of your home needs urgent repairs to prevent serious damage, your first instinct is to protect yourself and your property. Unlicensed and dishonest contractors often use fear tactics to turn routine maintenance into an unnecessary costly and potentially unsafe job.Don’t be taken in by low prices. An inspection usually costs $125 and the cleaning is another $150 and should take about an hour. For adt;l information click this link: http://www.your-story.org/connecticut-better-business-bureau-warns-consumers-about-chimney-cleaning-con-game-18397/

If you have concerns about your chimney or fireplace, call the experts at AA-MSA, Inc., and we'll arrange an inexpensive inspection for you, 1-800-888-8107. Visit us on the web at www.aa-msa.com.