Why It’s Always Smart to Get a Second Opinion on Chimney Work

The chimney services industry is highly competitive, and most companies are honest, trustworthy and capable. But there are more than a few “fly-by-night” outfits that have no business in the chimney business and actually may try to rip you off.

This is why Doodlebuggers Fireplace, Grill & Outdoor Store of Pensacola, FL, and Destin, FL, strongly recommends that you get a second opinion on chimney work before you agree to anything.

The value of a second opinion

Doodlebuggers and most reputable chimney service companies are happy to provide you with a no-cost second opinion on chimney work. This includes the work that’s needed and the estimate.

Here are some ways a second opinion can benefit you.

Necessary work not included

The first company may have overlooked some important tasks that should have been included in the estimate. A second look may spot these oversights.

Unnecessary work included

Scammers will often tell you that all kinds of work you can’t verify is needed to make your chimney safe. A second opinion will give you a better idea of what actually should be done.

Price issues, both ways

A very high price quoted for a chimney job should be a red flag for you. So should a ridiculously low price. A second price from a qualified chimney services provider will give you perspective.

Types of work where a second opinion might be needed

Here are some of the chimney project types that we recommend getting a second opinion for:

• Chimney masonry rebuilding
• Chimney footing stabilization
• Repair or replacement of a chimney liner
• Smoke chamber parging (smoothing out the chamber’s surfaces)
• Adding a new appliance to an existing chimney

These and other similar chimney projects can be complex and expensive. Additionally, they involve tasks and parts of the chimney system you may not be familiar with. Get a second opinion for peace of mind. 

Working with a chimney company for the first time

If you’re considering hiring a chimney company you haven’t worked with before, you should always get a second opinion before allowing the job to start. Even after you’re familiar with a good chimney service provider, you may want to get another opinion on large-scale, non-routine chimney services.

Choosing a reputable chimney company

Here’s a checklist:

• Confirm that they’re licensed to work in your area.
• Confirm that they’re fully insured.
• Ask for local references and follow up on them.
• Look at their website to see their areas of specialization.
• Talk with friends and associates to find out if they’ve used the company you’re thinking of hiring.
• Sit down with a rep and get a feel for how it would be to do business with this person. If you don’t feel comfortable, don’t hire them.
• Never pay the full cost up front.

Second opinions and all the chimney work you need

Doodlebuggers is glad to give you a second opinion on any chimney work. If you choose to hire us, we can provide you with professional chimney sweeping, licensed inspections, all manner of chimney repairs, and the replacement of all parts and components in your chimney system.

Give us a call and speak with a chimney expert today in Pensacola, FL, or Destin, FL. You can also get in touch with our handy contact form.