Is it okay to DIY chimney cleaning? Are homebuyers really concerned about the safety of a chimney before signing on the dotted line? Can a home inspector detect all the potential issues with a chimney? If you ask these questions to a variety of people, you are bound to receive a variety of responses. However, there are correct answers to each of them! As such, let’s bust a few of the most common chimney myths as they relate to home sales.
Sellers Can Simply DIY Their Chimney Cleaning
This myth is just as false as it is dangerous for everyone involved. Any chimney cleaning or chimney inspection services should be completed by a certified and trained chimney sweep. The inside of a chimney is more complex than it may seem from the exterior, and there are many hidden components that may require examination and repair. If you do not know what you are looking for, it’s easy to miss serious structural flaws and write off developing problems. A professional chimney sweep should always be tasked with cleaning and inspecting a chimney prior to a transfer of ownership.
If It Isn’t Winter, It Doesn’t Matter
Chimneys can be cleaned at any time of year, but it’s no secret that many homeowners schedule their cleanings strategically in late fall and early winter just before peak fireplace season. Don’t fall into the trap of assuming your buyers won’t be concerned about the condition of the chimney until winter rolls around. Bypassing a chimney inspection and cleaning means you are running the risk of getting a bad home inspector’s report. Not to mention, our scheduling and availability reaches maximum flexibility during the typical offseason!
New Houses Don’t Need Inspections and Cleanings
Regardless of how new a home is or how pristine its chimney looks, we still recommend a chimney cleaning and inspection. Documented evidence of a chimney servicing in the past year is the only thing that could potentially change that. Otherwise, you should never leave the safety of your clients in the hands of “he said she said.” The optimal time to have a chimney cleaning and inspection performed is before closing. This will identify any repairs that need to be made so that both parties can come to an agreement about remedying the situation before the transaction is finalized.
If It Has a Chimney Liner, It Doesn’t Need to Be Cleaned
A new or good-quality chimney liner is a great way to keep the inside of the chimney protected and prevent too much creosote build-up. However, chimneys with liners still should have annual inspections and cleanings to get rid of creosote and ensure safety.
Prepare for Your Next Home Sale with Clean Sweep Maryland
Clean Sweep Maryland has the professional equipment necessary to remove any amount of creosote from your chimney, along with performing repairs to your chimney, your liner or your insulation. Call Clean Sweep Maryland today at 410-558-1111 for professional chimney sweep, dryer vent cleaning, air duct cleaning and gutter cleaning services designed to keep your home in wonderful condition and your family safe.