Chimney Scammers Are on the Rise

When people think of scams, they think of those emails that fill their inboxes with warnings that someone tried to log in to their Amazon account and that they need to call a number to change the password. Or a text message from your mobile carrier telling you that you have a credit on your account, and all you have to do is click on the link to claim it.

Yes, scams are coming at you from all directions, but one thing people forget is that there are scammers in your neighborhood right now, and they could knock on your door with a fantastic offer that sounds too good to be true.

One thing scammers exploit is people’s ignorance about systems. Whether it’s their computer system or, in our case, the chimney and fireplace system, scammers know most people don’t know much about these systems, and they can fool them into thinking something terrible is wrong and that only they (the scammer) can fix it.

Here are the most common chimney and fireplace scams to watch out for.

The “Dangerous Crack” Scam

One of the most common chimney scams is when a technician claims that they found a severe crack in the flue liner or smoke chamber. This crack is so severe that lighting the next fire could cause the house to burn down. They might show you blurry photos (that may not even be from your chimney), generic images, or pictures from another chimney entirely. And, because you don’t know about these things, you trust the “professional” and agree to have it fixed, usually for big money.

Cracks can be severe, but not all of them pose an imminent danger to the home or fireplace or require immediate repairs.

You can avoid this by asking for clear, well-lit photos or video taken during the inspection, and by asking them to provide a written statement explaining what the problem is and what makes it unsafe. Get a second opinion from a certified chimney professional, who can tell you whether the issue is real or exaggerated.

The Bait-and-Switch Cleaning

Another popular scam starts when you get a flyer, call, or visit from a chimney company offering an extremely low-priced chimney cleaning—a price that’s too good to be true. Once the technician gets into your chimney, they’ll tell you it’s too dirty or has a dangerous blockage, and insist you pay for expensive extra services so they can finish the job. In some cases, this cleaning isn’t as thorough as a real pro would do, and may not even be done at all.

Avoid this by remembering what we all know: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Be skeptical of ultra-low prices, and if you’re curious, compare them to what your local providers are offering. Ask upfront what the cleaning includes and get it in writing.

Reputable companies explain additional costs before they start working, not after.

Fake Creosote Removal

Creosote buildup is a legitimate fire hazard, but scammers often exaggerate how much buildup you have. Some will claim the chimney is coated with “stage three” (sounds scary, right?) or is “glazed with creosote”. Once again, they’ll try to push you into more expensive services by scaring you into thinking you’re about to die if you use the fireplace again.

Avoid this by asking how much creosote is present and at what level. A trustworthy technician will explain the difference between light soot, normal creosote, and dangerous buildup.

Remember, scammers use fear to pressure you into making a quick decision, often warning that repairs must be made right now to avoid a disaster. Pressure tactics are always a red flag.

The best way to avoid getting scammed is to trust your local chimney and fireplace providers, like American Chimney and Fireplace. We’re a certified family-owned company. We have over 18 years of experience and hundreds of satisfied customers. Simply put, we’re the real deal. Call us today or stop into our showroom.