Frequently Asked Questions

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that chimneys be inspected annually and cleaned as needed. However, the frequency can vary based on usage:

• Heavy use (50+ fires per year): Clean every 2-3 months
• Moderate use (20-50 fires per year): Clean once per year
• Light use (less than 20 fires per year): Clean every 2-3 years
• Gas fireplaces: Inspect annually, clean as needed

Bay Area weather conditions and the type of wood burned can also affect cleaning frequency. We'll assess your specific needs during our inspection.

Our comprehensive chimney inspection includes:

• Digital camera inspection of the entire flue system
• Assessment of chimney structure, crown, and cap
• Damper operation and condition check
• Fireplace and smoke chamber examination
• Exterior chimney and roof penetration inspection
• Safety hazard identification
• Detailed written report with photographs

We provide both Level 1 (routine) and Level 2 (property transfer/post-incident) inspections according to NFPA standards. Our reports include prioritized recommendations and cost estimates for any needed repairs.

Our chimney sweeping service starts at $189, which includes:

• Complete flue cleaning from top to bottom
• Smoke chamber cleaning
• Damper inspection and basic maintenance
• Safety assessment
• Professional cleanup with drop cloths and vacuum

The final cost may vary based on:

• Chimney height and accessibility
• Level of creosote buildup
• Additional services needed (inspection, minor repairs)
• Special equipment requirements

We always provide upfront pricing before beginning work, with no hidden fees or surprise charges.

In the Bay Area, we recommend gutter cleaning at least twice per year, ideally:

• Late fall (November-December): After leaves have fallen but before heavy winter rains
• Late spring (April-May): After spring storms and before summer dry season

Additional cleaning may be needed if you have:

• Many trees near your home
• Pine trees that drop needles year-round
• Issues with birds or pests
• Previous water damage or foundation problems

Regular cleaning prevents expensive water damage and extends the life of your gutter system. We can set up a maintenance schedule that works for your specific property.

Yes! We offer same-day service throughout our Bay Area service area, subject to availability. Same-day service is available for:

• Emergency situations (chimney fires, severe leaks, safety hazards)
• Routine cleanings and inspections
• Minor repairs and maintenance
• Urgent real estate transaction needs

To request same-day service:

• Call us at (510) 237-8081 before 2 PM
• Describe your situation and urgency level
• We'll check availability and confirm timing

Emergency services are available 24/7 for critical safety situations. Regular same-day service is typically available Monday through Saturday.

Absolutely! Chimney Sweeps Gutter Clean is fully licensed and insured for your protection:

• California State Contractor's License
• City business licenses for all service areas
• Comprehensive general liability insurance
• Workers' compensation insurance
• Bonded for additional customer protection

Our technicians are also certified by:

• National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG)
• Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)
• National Fireplace Institute (NFI)

We can provide proof of insurance and licensing upon request. All our work is guaranteed and backed by our professional reputation built over 15+ years in the Bay Area.

⚠️ EMERGENCY SITUATION - Follow these steps immediately:

1. Call 911 first - Report the chimney fire to emergency services
2. Evacuate everyone from the home immediately
3. Close the damper if safely accessible to limit oxygen
4. Spray water on roof around chimney (NOT down the chimney)
5. Move combustibles away from fireplace area
6. Have the fire department inspect even if fire seems out

After a chimney fire:

• Do NOT use the fireplace until professionally inspected
• Call us at (510) 237-8081 for emergency assessment
• Document damage for insurance claims
• Repair all damage before using fireplace again

Prevention is key: Regular cleaning and inspection prevent most chimney fires. Never burn wet wood, cardboard, or trash in your fireplace.

Service times vary depending on the type of work and property conditions:

• Chimney Sweeping: 1-2 hours (includes setup, cleaning, and inspection)
• Chimney Inspection: 1-1.5 hours (includes camera work and report)
• Gutter Cleaning: 1-3 hours (depends on home size and debris level)
• Dryer Vent Cleaning: 30-60 minutes
• Minor Repairs: 1-4 hours (varies by scope)
• Major Repairs/Installation: 4+ hours or multiple visits

Factors that may affect timing:

• Accessibility and property layout
• Weather conditions
• Level of buildup or damage
• Additional issues discovered during service

We always provide estimated timeframes when scheduling and will update you if circumstances change during the appointment.