The Rise of Gig Economy Chimney Sweeps: How Modern Scammers Are Exploiting Today’s Service Apps

As we navigate through 2025, the gig economy has transformed nearly every service industry—including chimney cleaning. While traditional platforms like TaskRabbit and Handy have legitimized many home services, the chimney sweep business remains an unregulated industry where anyone can knock on doors and claim to be a chimney sweep, even if they have no training or even any tools of the trade. This lack of oversight, combined with the rise of app-based service platforms, has created new opportunities for scammers to exploit unsuspecting homeowners.

The New Face of Chimney Sweep Scams in 2025

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) periodically sends out consumer alerts about chimney sweeping scams, getting hundreds of complaints every year about fraudulent chimney sweeps who trick homeowners into spending hundreds of dollars for unnecessary repairs or for repairs that are improperly done. What’s changed in 2025 is how these scammers operate—many now use the credibility of gig economy platforms to appear more legitimate.

Often, these scams start with unsolicited cold calls, which are a red flag. Cold callers often pressure homeowners into booking immediately, playing on fears of fire hazards or carbon monoxide risks. Modern scammers may claim to be affiliated with popular service apps or use similar-sounding company names to established platforms.

Red Flags to Watch For

Several warning signs can help you identify potential scams:

• Suspiciously low prices for chimney inspections or cleaning, often “too-good-to-be-true” deals like a “free” inspection, which are a ploy to get their foot in the door
• Unsolicited offers: Be wary of chimney sweeps that show up unannounced or make unsolicited offers. A reputable company is unlikely to cold-call or knock on your door trying to sell you a service
• If a sweep insists on cash-only payments or demands payment upfront, this should raise concerns about their legitimacy. Scammers may also try to add unexpected costs midway through the service. They might claim additional repairs are urgently needed to scare homeowners into paying more
• Companies offering a suspiciously wide range of services, such as gutter cleaning, duct cleaning, or even holiday light installation along with chimney cleanings. Generally, these do-it-all exterior service companies lack the specialization required for proper chimney maintenance

How to Identify Legitimate Professionals

When searching for a chimney sweep near me, focus on finding certified professionals with proper credentials. The gold standard credential in the industry is becoming a Certified Chimney Sweep®, and CSIA certifications are the gold standard. Whether you’re looking for a Certified Chimney Sweep® (CCS®) or a Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician® (CDET®), these credentials prove knowledge, skills, and commitment to safety.

Look for these key certifications:

• CSIA.org (Chimney Safety Institute of America) OR NCSG.org (National Chimney Sweep Guild) to verify credentials
• The NCSG offers the only ANAB-accredited certifications in the industry. Having a reputable third-party accreditation is necessary for credibility, protects the customer’s investment, and offers reassurance that there is independent oversight

Vetting Service Providers Properly

Before hiring a chimney cleaning company, look for online reviews, ask for references, and check their reputation on Google Reviews or the Better Business Bureau. Ask for proof of business certification and insurance. While the industry as a whole lacks standard credentials and licensing, a trusted and reliable company needs business insurance.

Companies like Certified Chimney Inspections exemplify what to look for in a legitimate service provider. Certified Chimney Inspections is a family-owned company offering expert chimney services such as inspections, cleaning, repairs, and chimney caps across Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, and southern New Hampshire. With over 50 years of combined experience and CSIA-certified professionals, they prioritize safety and efficiency in their services. Before performing any service, they conduct a comprehensive fire and safety certified chimney inspection and deliver the highest standard in chimney/fireplace inspections, guidelines as set forth by the IBC (International Building Code).

The Importance of Professional Standards

Legitimate chimney cleaning services typically charge between $100 and $300, depending on your location. A chimney cleaning and inspection should cost around $125 or higher, take about 30 to 45 minutes and require one man on top of the roof and another in the basement vacuuming out all the soot that’s coming down.

A legitimate chimney sweep will gladly answer any questions and address your concerns. Don’t feel pressured to decide on the spot. Get it in Writing: Before any work begins, have a written contract outlining the scope of work, price, and warranty. This protects you in case of disputes.

Protecting Yourself in 2025’s Service Market

As the gig economy continues to evolve, homeowners must remain vigilant. The best defense against any scam is knowledge. Company referrals from friends, family and co-workers offer the best protection. But even with a referral, consumers should still ask and check a company’s accreditations, licenses and make sure there aren’t any judgments or complaints against the company with the Better Business Bureau and the state Attorney General.

Remember that the CSIA certification is recognized as the gold standard in the industry. Chimney sweeps that hold a CSIA certification have completed extensive education, training, and testing and represent the best in the industry in terms of skill and professionalism. Don’t let the convenience of modern service apps compromise your safety—always verify credentials and never rush into decisions when it comes to your home’s chimney system.

By staying informed about these evolving scam tactics and insisting on properly certified professionals, homeowners can safely navigate 2025’s crowded service market and ensure their chimney maintenance needs are met by legitimate, qualified experts.