Why Are Professional Certifications Important?

You wouldn’t hire just anyone to rewire your home’s electricity, and you shouldn’t hire a neighborhood handyman to work on your chimney system. According to the U.S. Fire Administration there are about 1 million home fires annually. Of these house fires both electrical fires and home heating fires make up 7 percent. The truth is that a fireplace may add value to your home, but if not maintained and used properly it can cost you dearly in life, health, insurance, and repairs. The best way to save money tomorrow is to take preventative measures today. Hire a certified professional who specializes in fire and chimney science, masonry repairs, installations, and more.

Professional Affiliations and Memberships

There are many affiliations that chimney sweeps can have that indicate a higher standard than others. If you’re shopping around for a chimney sweep, you should first look at their professional certifications and affiliations. If a professional in any field spends the time and money to join professional organizations, this is an indication that they are wiling to invest in their performance, their business, and their industry. Some professional affiliations to look for are memberships to national and state Chimney Sweep Guilds and training and certifications from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and National Fireplace Institute (NFI). These certifications mean the chimney sweep has advanced training and education in his field.

The Most Trusted Industry Standard: CSIA

The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) certification has been the industry standard since the 1980’s for many reasons:

• Accreditation.
  CSIA meets the highest of education standards and is actually regulated by the Indiana State Workforce Innovation Council.
• Longevity.
  CSIA was established in 1983 and has been the industry standard since.
• Non-Profit.
  CSIA is a non-profit organization governed by professionals and technical experts in the industry from across the country.
• Code of Ethics.
  CSIA members must adhere to a stringent Code of Ethics designed to protect homeowners from fraud. If they are found in violation of the Code of Ethics their certification can be revoked.
• Public Safety and Industry Involvement.
  CSIA’s mission includes public and professional education and a commitment to eliminate home chimney fires, carbon monoxide intrusion, and other chimney-related hazards.
• Continued Education.
  CSIA members must re-certify by examination or continued education every three years in order to stay abreast to industry changes.
• Reciprocal Affiliated Trades Relationships.
  CSIA devotes resources to educating not just the public, but also similar trades that can contribute to the safety of homes and families including home inspectors, realtors, and homeowner associations.
• National Recognition.
  CSIA has been nationally recognized as the industry standard. CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps have appeared on Good Morning America, Dateline, and 20/20, in the New York Times, Consumer Reports, and Popular Mechanics, to name a few. It’s the certification required by many homeowners insurance companies, municipal codes, and warranties.

It’s important to find a trusted professional when searching for someone on whom your home’s safety depends. In the Suffolk County area you can depend on the best chimney sweeps by calling Chief Chimney Services today at 631-863-2460 or requesting an appointment online.