Our Company Blog

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.

Why Are Professional Certifications Important Image - Suffolk NY - Chief Chimney ServicesProfessional 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.

By John Pilger on April 5th, 2017 | Tagged with: Tags: , , , | Comments Off on Why Are Professional Certifications Important?

The Importance Of Using A Company That Employs CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

When you are a homeowner you understand you are taking on a certain set of responsibilities when it comes to maintaining your home. Making sure your appliances and heating/cooling systems are running efficiently and safely are necessary to ensure your home is operating in the best possible way. Having your chimney inspected and swept on a regular basis is one of the easiest and smartest things you can do when maintaining your home. Hiring a reputable company with CSIA certified chimney sweeps is also important in making sure your fireplace and chimney are in good hands.

CSIA-certified-technicians-suffolk-ny-chief-chimney-services

What Is The CSIA?

The CSIA, or Chimney Safety Institute Of America is at the forefront of education and public awareness for chimney safety. The CSIA strives to make sure every chimney and venting system is properly cared for. By training and certifying qualified professionals to perform chimney sweeping tasks and by educating homeowners on the importance of having your chimney inspected and cleaned, the Chimney Safety Institute Of America helps prevent chimney fires, creosote build-up and carbon monoxide exposure in homes across America.

Importance Of CSIA Certification

Chimney Sweep Institute Of America Certification is the gold standard for industry professionals. When hiring a CSIA certified chimney sweep you can rest assured that they:

  • Have met the highest level of certification for chimney sweeps
  • Have paid the annual certification fee
  • Meet the stringent credentials put forth by the CSIA
  • Can provide referrals for excellent work
  • Hold a certification recognized by builders, contractors and homeowners associations across the US

CSIA certified sweeps have attended training sessions as well as passed exams based on the most current chimney sweeping safety information. Additionally, when certified, all chimney sweeps agree and sign the CSIA Code of Ethics that ensures they uphold their duties according to the most current safety information.

Other Benefits of CSIA Certification Include:

  • Ongoing training opportunities
  • Education for home inspection and fire safety
  • Support after chimney fires
  • Support for military veterans

It’s not enough to have your chimney cleaned regularly. You want to look for a company that utilizes the best technology in the business, as well as the highest safety standards in the country. As a homeowner, it is your responsibility to hire a reputable company that cares enough about their employees and about the quality of their work to comply with CSIA certification standards.

Chimney sweeping professionals, like the ones at Chief Chimney in Suffolk, NY have been through the CSIA training course and strive to uphold the safety and quality standards this important organization promotes. When you understand the importance of hiring a CSIA certified chimney sweep you begin to realize that your fireplace heating system is quite literally the hearth of your home.

As a homeowner, you deserve the very best. Trust a company that wants to keep your family safe by making sure your fireplace and chimney are working efficiently and safely. By taking time to invest in a company that certifies its employees and maintains the rigorous standards set forth by the CSIA you can rest assured your chimney and fireplace will be maintained, cleaned and swept by the very best. For more information contact Chief Chimney today.

By John Pilger on February 10th, 2015 | Tagged with: Tags: , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on The Importance Of Using A Company That Employs CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps