Always Get a Chimney Repair Estimate Before Authorizing Work

If there is something wrong with your chimney, it is very important for you to get it fixed as soon as you can.  You do not want to run the risk of a chimney fire spreading throughout your home.  Before you get any work done, it is vital for you to get a chimney repair estimate.

If you have never had your chimney repaired before, then you likely do not know what to expect.  You do not want to end up paying more money than you were expecting to.  This is why it is best to get an estimate beforehand.

You should not stop at getting one estimate however.  It is usually best that call at least three companies to give you an estimate.  This way you can make a comparison and see if you are paying a fair price to have your chimney repaired.

It is also important for you to never accept an estimate over the phone.  The professional may not know exactly what is wrong with your chimney based solely on your description of the problem.  You would get a more accurate assessment if someone actually came out to your home to look at the chimney.

You should be aware that some companies will charge you a fee just to provide you with an estimate.  However, many of them will not.  Before you sign up to get an estimate, make sure you are comfortable with the charges if there are any.

Whenever you call a company to come look at your chimney, you want them to perform a thorough inspection.  You want the professional to check for problems such as structural problems, creosote buildup, and flue damage.

The contractor you call for your chimney repair estimate should also document his findings.  Never take someone's word for it.  If they tell you that there is something wrong with your chimney, they should be able to show you exactly what the problem is with photographs if necessary.  More photographs may be needed at the end of the job so you can be sure that your chimney is really repaired.

It is also important to note you should beware of people who just happen to come to your home offering a free estimate.  Oftentimes, they will say something is wrong even if there is not.

Now you should understand how important it is to get a chimney repair estimate before you authorize any work to be done.  Do not settle on getting just one estimate since you will need multiple estimates in order to make a comparison.