Best Chimney Repair Companies of 2023

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For many homeowners, the chimney represents the backbone of their home. This ubiquitous smokestack rises from houses across the country, a callback to an era before central heating. Unfortunately, chimneys can easily become damaged after years of use, exposure to the environment, and a buildup of creosote. Regularly maintaining your chimney helps prevent fires, carbon monoxide leaks, and structural damage. Neglect, however, can lead to blockages and cracks, warranting a chimney repair.

Locating a reputable chimney repair company can be a tedious process. Depending on your needs, you want to make sure the company is certified and reputable and will provide a free estimate. Many companies offer service in several states and provide emergency services should an immediate issue arise. So whether you just need a regular inspection, or a full-blown repair, our list of the best chimney repair companies will get you started.

Best Chimney Repair Companies of 2023

Best Overall: Midtown Chimney Sweeps
Best Service Offerings: Chimcare
Best for Rebuilds: Vertical Chimney Care
Best for Financing and Discounts: Flue Tech Inc.
Best for Emergencies: United Home Services

Best Overall : Midtown Chimney Sweeps

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Key Specs

Locations: California, Colorado, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Washington
Emergency Services? No

Pros & Cons

Pros

Available in 11 states
Technicians hold CCP certification
Website has helpful resources and articles
Offers additional fireplace and vent services

Cons

Prices higher than national average
No emergency services available

Why We Chose It

Midtown Chimney Sweeps offers exceptional chimney repair, sweeping, and inspection services. During the initial call and quote process, Midtown Chimney Sweeps delivers a seamless and professional experience, even providing the quote while you’re still on the phone. This level of transparency ensures no alteration of costs.

The company’s technicians hold Certified Chimney Professional certifications, and many of them also hold a National Fireplace Institute Woodburning Certification, ensuring any work is performed to the highest industry standards. The company’s website is a great resource for articles and information on the importance of chimney maintenance, as well.

Midtown Chimney Sweeps sets itself apart from competitors by providing services in 11 different states (plus Canada). Its technicians can also be hired for fireplace repair, as well as air duct and dryer vent cleaning. The range of services offered, combined with the company’s certifications and wide service area, make Midtown Chimney Sweeps our best overall pick.

Best Service Offerings : Chimcare

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Key Specs

Locations: Washington, Oregon, Ohio, and California
Emergency Services? No

Pros & Cons

Pros

Great customer ratings
Provides a “No Mess Guarantee”
Affordable loyalty program
Offers additional chimney repair and cleaning services

Cons

Service area confined to major cities in four states
Expensive

Why We Chose It

Chimcare is a great option for customers looking for a single service provider for all their chimney and fireplace needs. It provides a large number of services, including chimney cleaning, inspection, repair, cap installation, gas fireplace installation, traditional fireplace installation, and maintenance of gas and wood-burning inserts.

Chimcare sets itself apart from its competitors with its “No Mess Guarantee,” which includes inspecting and cleaning the chimney cap, brushing the chimney flue, smoke shelf cleaning, removing debris and creosote behind the flue damper, cleaning the firebox, and inspecting and cleaning the damper. Since debris buildup can cause issues requiring chimney repair, Chimcare’s focus on maintenance helped its rank on our list. Additionally, the company offers a two-tiered affordable loyalty program that comes with an annual chimney inspection and an annual chimney cleaning.

Best for Rebuilds : Vertical Chimney Care

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Key Specs

Locations in: Illinois
Emergency Services? No

Pros & Cons

Pros

Excellent BBB rating and good customer reviews
CSIA Certified Technicians
Offers financing with flexible payments
Regularly offers promotional discounts

Cons

Only offers services around Chicago, Ill.
Some customers report punctuality issues

Why We Chose It

Based in the Chicago area, Vertical Chimney Care is the top-ranked chimney repair and cleaning company in Illinois for good reason; the company offers a full range of repair services, including full teardowns and rebuilds. Additionally, this company can tackle chimney maintenance, chimney crown repairs, installation, and cleaning needs. You name it, Vertical Chimney Care has the expertise and experience to handle all chimney-related issues.

Vertical Chimney Care sets itself apart with a high level of expertise and professionalism. All technicians are CSIA-certified (Chimney Safety Institute of America). The company also maintains a strong BBB rating with positive customer reviews. Lastly, Vertical Chimney Care offers financing with flexible payment plans and no lender origination or closing costs, and promotional discounts to boot.

Best for Financing and Discounts : Flue Tech Inc.

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Key Specs

Locations in: New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut
Emergency Services? No

Pros & Cons

Pros

Company certified by CSIA, NCSG, NFI, and more
Discounts offered for annual service plan
Flexible financing available

Cons

Limited service hours
Service only available in New York tri-state area

Why We Chose It

Flue Tech Inc. is the best choice for those in the tri-state area who need top-notch chimney repair and maintenance services, as well as flexible financing. The company earns exceptional service reviews and displays a clear commitment to meeting the unique needs of each customer. Flue Tech Inc. offers a full range of chimney services, including cleaning, repair, restoration, air duct cleaning, dryer vent cleaning, and waterproofing.

The company’s strong knowledge and expertise in the chimney industry sets it apart from its competitors. Its technicians are thoroughly certified by various organizations, including the Chimney Safety Institute of America, National Chimney Sweep Guild, Northeast Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, New York State Chimney Sweep Guild, National Fireplace Institute, and the National Fire Protection Association. Additionally, Flue Tech Inc. offers an annual service plan that provides $15 off each service and 5 percent off repairs and renovations, as well as $25 off your bill just for signing up. If you’re worried about conducting necessary chimney repairs but don’t have cash on hand to do so, Flue Tech Inc. offers special financing options through Wells Fargo.

Best for Emergencies : United Home Services

United Home Services

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Key Specs

Locations: Washington, Utah, Colorado, Texas, Missouri, and Pennsylvania
Emergency Services? Yes

Pros & Cons

Pros

Provides additional non-chimney-related home services
Offers regular coupons and discounts
National Chimney Sweep Guild member

Cons

Service quality can vary by location
Poor BBB rating and reviews

Why We Chose It

United Home Services is one of the only choices for those in need of emergency chimney services. The company offers a 24-hour customer support line and can send rapid response technicians immediately.

Customers can also appreciate United Home Services’ numerous discounts and affordable offers, as well as the company’s wide range of non-chimney home services. Services include fireplace repair, ducting and HVAC services, insulation installation, and even garage door installation. This thick catalog of coverage certainly sets United Home Services apart from its competitors.

Final Verdict

Midtown Chimney Sweeps is our pick for the best chimney repair company. The company offers a wide range of services and a more extensive service area than the companies we reviewed (they service 11 states). Midtown’s repair and cleaning technicians are Certified Chimney Professionals and ensure all work is performed to the highest industry standards.

Midtown’s website is a great resource for customers, providing helpful articles that educate customers on the importance of chimney maintenance. The company offers additional services, as well, like fireplace repair, air duct cleaning, and dryer vent cleaning, providing customers with a one-stop-shop for all their chimney needs.

Compare the Best Chimney Repair Companies

Company	Locations	Emergency Services?	Additional Services	Free Online Estimate?
Midtown Chimney Sweeps Best Overall	California, Colorado, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Washington	No	Fireplace repair, air duct cleaning, and dryer vent cleaning	Yes
Chimcare Best Service Offerings	Washington, Oregon, Ohio, and California	No	Chimney cleaning, inspection, repair, cap installation, gas fireplace installation, traditional fireplace installation, and gas and wood-burning inserts	Yes
Vertical Chimney Care Best for Rebuilds	Illinois	No	Chimney cleaning, inspection, repair, cap installation, gas fireplace installation, traditional fireplace installation and gas and wood-burning inserts	Yes
Flue Tech Inc. Best for Financing and Discounts	New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut	No	Cleaning, repair, restoration, air duct cleaning, dryer vent cleaning, and waterproofing	Yes
United Home Services Best for Emergencies	Washington, Utah, Colorado, Texas, Missouri, and Pennsylvania	Yes	Chimney cleaning, inspection, repair, cap installation, gas fireplace installation, traditional fireplace installation, and gas and wood- burning inserts	Yes

How to Choose a Chimney Repair Company

It’s important to take the time to research and select a reputable and qualified company when choosing a chimney repair outfit. The right choice will ensure the safety and longevity of your chimney and the rest of your house. Consider these factors when making your decision:

Certification

Look for certification from the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and other reputable organizations. A company with the appropriate endorsements has taken the time to properly train technicians and equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to repair your chimney successfully.

Insurance

Make sure the company you work with is fully insured to protect you, your house, and the technician, in the event of accidents or injuries that may occur during the repair process.

Services Offered

Determine what type of services you need (as well as services you might anticipate needing in the future), such as chimney cleaning, repair, restoration, or waterproofing. Ensure that the company offers those specific services. Remember, a company’s areas of expertise may allow them to spot other issues you haven’t yet noticed with your chimney.

Location and Availability

Look for a company located near you with technicians available to visit your home at a convenient time. If you’re experiencing an emergency issue, find a company with emergency service provisions that can address your issue immediately.

Reputation and Reviews

Start by checking a company’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. If the rating is good, next, read customer reviews and testimonials from third-party websites—not just the reviews featured on the company’s website.

Pricing

Compare pricing and estimates from multiple companies—we recommend requesting quotes from at least three companies—but keep in mind that the cheapest option may not always be the best.

Additional Options

Does the company you’re contracting with offer additional options, like financing, annual service plans, or discounts? These extra benefits can save you money on regular maintenance or help you repair your chimney sooner, and then pay it off over time.

What Are the Signs That a Chimney Needs to Be Repaired?

Signs a chimney needs repairing include:

Soot or creosote buildup in the chimney
Cracks or missing bricks in the chimney structure
Leaks or water damage around the chimney
A strong smoke odor inside the home
Difficulty starting or maintaining a fire in the fireplace
Smoke or carbon monoxide leaks in the home

Services Offered by Chimney Companies

Chimney repair and maintenance companies offer a variety of services, including:

Chimney cleaning: Removal of soot and creosote buildup in the chimney to prevent chimney fires and improve overall efficiency
Chimney inspection: A thorough evaluation of the chimney’s condition to identify potential issues
Chimney repair: Fixing cracks, leaks, and other structural damage to ensure the chimney is safe to use
Chimney relining: Installing a new liner in the chimney to improve its efficiency and safety
Chimney cap installation: Installing a cap on top of the chimney to prevent debris and animals from entering
Chimney rebuild: A complete reconstruction of the chimney when it is beyond repair
Air duct cleaning, dryer vent cleaning, waterproofing, and other related maintenance

What Factors Impact the Cost of a Chimney Repair?

The cost of a chimney repair can be affected by a variety of factors, including the extent of the damage, the materials needed for the repair, the accessibility of the chimney, and the location of the property. If the chimney is in a hard-to-reach location or requires extensive work, the cost may be higher. Additionally, the cost of labor and materials can vary depending on the region.

Chimney Company Checklist

Asking the following important questions when evaluating whether or not to hire a chimney repair company can help you assess whether or not it will be a reliable contractor:

Are the technicians certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) or another reputable organization?
Does the company have liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance?
Can the company provide references or customer testimonials?
Does the company have a physical address and phone number?
Is the company licensed and insured in your state?
Does the company have positive reviews and ratings from reputable sources, such as the Better Business Bureau?
Is the company a member of any professional organization, guild, or trade association?
Does the company offer a written estimate and guarantee its work?
What types of payment does the company accept?
Will the company provide a detailed invoice after the work is completed?
What is the company’s policy on follow-up visits and warranty work?
Does the company have experience working with your specific type of chimney or heating system?
How long has the company been in business?
What type of training and certifications do the technicians have?

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Common Chimney Problems?

Common chimney problems include creosote buildup, chimney blockages, cracked or missing chimney crowns, and damaged chimney flues. These issues can lead to dangerous fires and carbon monoxide leaks if not addressed in a timely manner. It is important to conduct regular chimney inspections and complete regular maintenance to prevent and fix any problems.

How Often Should I Service My Chimney?

Have your chimney inspected and cleaned at least once a year, especially if you use your fireplace frequently. Additionally, if you notice issues, such as a strong odor or smoke in the room, it is important to schedule an inspection as soon as possible.

What Is the Average Cost of a Chimney Repair?

The cost of a chimney repair can vary depending on the type and severity of the problem, as well as the location of the home. On average, a routine chimney cleaning and inspection can cost around $150 to $300. More extensive repairs, such as relining a chimney or rebuilding a chimney crown, can cost $1,000 to $4,000, or more.

Are Chimney Repairs Covered by Insurance?

It depends on the cause of the damage and the specific terms of the homeowner’s insurance policy. In general, damage caused by normal wear and tear or lack of maintenance is not covered by insurance. However, damage caused by natural disasters or accidental fires may be covered. It is important to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage.

How Do I Know If My Chimney Needs Repointing?

Repointing (the process of replacing the mortar between bricks) may be necessary if you notice cracking or missing mortar, or if water is leaking into the chimney. Additionally, if the chimney is over 20 years old and has not been repointed, it may be time to schedule a repointing inspection. A professional chimney inspector can give you a definitive answer.

How Long Should a Chimney Crown Last?

A properly constructed and maintained chimney crown can last anywhere from 20 to 50 years, but a chimney crown that has been installed improperly or has not been maintained can fail within a few years. Regular chimney inspections can help identify issues with the crown and address them before they become major problems.

Methodology

We evaluated and compared companies based on factors such as certifications, services offered, customer reviews, and overall reputation. We also took into account the specific needs of each region to ensure that readers know what the best option is in their area. Other criteria considered include emergency service availability, additional features, and company transparency via free online estimates.