01/23/2026
In the last few days we have been bombarded with calls regarding fireplace inspections and/ or service before the weekend. This is true of most every Chimney Service Business across the state as well as others who provide heating fuels and service.
First, I would like to apologize to those who were unable to receive service from us, or any other qualified professional in their community. Especially our repeat clientele, some of whom we were unable to service in time. It is often beneficial to be proactive and get your chimney inspected and/or cleaned in non peak season so that you are prepared for cold weather when it arrives. Unlike plumbers, electricians, and HVAC contractors, Chimney Professionals are very few and far between resulting in longer wait times to receive service.
That said, I have seen MANY post regarding businesses and/or individuals that can provide chimney sweeping services. As a homeowner, there are a few things you should be aware of when hiring someone to service your fireplace, woodstove, gas logs, or even your dryer vent.
1. Make sure your chosen provider is QUALIFIED. Cleanings and inspections should be performed ONLY by those that are qualified to do so. There are several different associations that certify these persons. These certifications typically insure that individuals have the necessary knowledge regarding current building codes, and NFPA standards, and best practices.
2. A chimney cleaning should ALWAYS include an inspection. The NFPA has standards regarding the minimum required areas of inspection based on the work being performed. If a provider Is unable to provide you with a written and/ or verbal inspection report for your system, they are not qualified to perform a sweep service.
3. A professional company will have the capability to video scan your chimney. While it is not necessary to video scan every single chimney we service, we do so for new clients 99% of the time. It is typically only possible to inspect the first and last joint in a flue system without a proper inspection camera. Making it extremely possible for potential hazards to be overlooked.
4. If a provider tells you the fireplace is “safe to use” they are likely not a professional. Building a fire inside your home is an endeavor that has potential risks even if your system meets all codes and standards. For this reason, you will typically never hear an industry professional use the word safe.
5. There are resources that can help you locate professionals in your area.
https://www.csia.org/find-a-certified-pro
https://ncsg.org/find-a-sweep/find-an-ncsg-member
https://www.southcarolinachimneysweeps.org/index.html
We wanted to share these facts with our customers and our community. Servicing chimneys is a specialized industry requiring specialized equipment and knowledge. The NFPA estimates there are 7-10,000 chimney related fires nationwide that result in structural damage EVERY Year. Choose wisely.
