Hiring an OCSA member gives you peace of mind:
- Membership indicates professionalism and credibility.
- Members are required to sign and adhere to a Code of Ethics.
- Members have access to regular technical updates via SNEWS
- OCSA is the only Pacific Northwest recognized trade association for chimney professionals.
- Affiliation is easily verifiable online with OCSA’s Find a Member locator.
Hire an OCSA member and hire a leader in the industry!
We strongly recommend that people take a few steps when considering which chimney sweep will perform an annual inspection or related service on their chimney or vent. Because proper care and attention to service can help protect people from unnecessary fires and carbon monoxide poisonings, it is important to choose the professional wisely. While the OCSA recommends that people consider a OCSA Certified Chimney Sweep, there are additional questions that should be asked to ensure that the person hired is a credible service technician:
-
How long has the company been in business?
-
Do they offer current references?
-
Are there any unresolved complaints filed within the city or state consumer protection agency or Better Business Bureau?
-
Does the company or individual carry a valid business liability insurance policy to protect your home and furnishings against accidents?
-
Does the company ensure that a OCSA Certified Chimney Sweep will be on the job site?
To ensure that homeowners receive a certified sweep at every job, all chimney sweeping companies promoting themselves as “OCSA Certified” or displaying the OCSA Certified Sweep logo are required to have a OCSA Certified Chimney Sweep sign off on every job. To locate one of our active OCSA Certified Chimney Sweeps, please use the OCSA Certified Professional Locator on this site.
IMPORTANT: Just because a chimney sweep or company might say they are “certified”, include the word “certified” in their title or advertising, or have great reviews on a consumer website, this might not mean they are well-suited for the job. Check the NCSG blog post on how to ensure you’re hiring the best person to keep your family safe from potential chimney fires or carbon monoxide intrusion.