by Lou Curley

The chimney industry is unregulated throughout most of the country.

Because of this, anyone with a set of brushes is able to call him or herself a chimney sweep.

Since most of the chimney is out of the view of homeowners, they put their trust in the knowledge of a chimney sweep to do the inspection and/or cleaning and make sure their venting system is in good repair. Defective chimneys can cause fire damage, smoke damage, or carbon monoxide spillage into the living area.

Every year there are news reports of unscrupulous companies and individuals preying on homeowners’ fears of fire and carbon monoxide to sell unnecessary, and expensive repairs. At the end of these reports, the reporter will recommend a “CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep.”

The CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep credential is the most accepted, nationally recognized certification in the chimney sweeping industry. It’s our industry’s best…