At Hancock Chimney Service, we believe in educating our customers, to make it easier for them to make a decision that affects their health, safety, and the value of their home.
There are many options in choosing your chimney contractor, and this decision is made complex by an incredible amount of misinformation and “cheap” contractors found online. We hope these resources will help homeowners make the right decision. If there are any unanswered questions – please don’t hesitate to call us- we are here to help!

Chimney 101
Typically built of brick, masonry chimneys include a firebox, where the wood is burned, and a flue, an air shaft inside the chimney. The top of the chimney usually features a crown to deter animals and prevent water from entering the home. All chimneys are equipped with a damper, which is a moving metal plate that opens to release smoke and carbon monoxide and closes to control the temperature inside the home when the fireplace is not in use. Flue liners improve the performance and safety of the chimney by preventing the overheating of the chimney and preventing corrosion. Finally, a chimney cap, a minor and inexpensive product, can save thousands of dollars in repairs, and possibly prevent a fire. Chimney caps keep the animals out of the chimney, prevent moisture from entering the home, and keep burning embers from landing on the roof, causing damage, and even a complete destruction of the home.
Homeowner FAQs
Why sweep your chimney?
What is creosote?
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Smoke Damage
Best time to sweep your chimney
Fireplace Maintenance

Exterior

Stains & Leaks

Chimney Cap

Check your Fireplace
CSIA's Homeowners Resources for Chimneys, Fireplaces & Wood Stoves
Time to Hire a Chimney Company?
How long has the company been in business?
Do they have current online reviews & testimonials?
Do they have unresolved complaints with consumer protection agencies or the Better Business Bureau?
Are they insured to protect your home against accidents?
Is this company licensed to perform the work?
Chimneys may work seemingly well and still have detrimental defects and issues. Most homeowners just want to make sure their chimney is safe. Some homeowners want to make sure that even the smallest issue is fixed, while others take a more relaxed approach, and just want the chimney to operate until it is unsafe.
The experts at Hancock Chimney Service understand that circumstances may force some homeowners to only handle the absolute “musts” now, and fix the rest at a later time. We will provide a detailed explanation of the necessary services and the consequences of leaving some of the issues to be addressed later.
Keep in Mind: Chimney Sweeping Is an Unregulated Industry!
- Be wary of phone scams and low, discounted prices.
- Check their memberships and certifications.
- Expect professional attire & behavior.
- Expect prompt & reliable service.
- Check their insurance & licensing.
- Read reviews & check references.
- Make sure to hire a LOCAL company.
- Check their identification- don’t let strangers into your home.
- Ask for proof of damages / required work IN WRITING.
- Don’t hire a company that subcontracts their work.
- Check their Better Business Bureau rating.
Michigan State Mechanical License # 71-06504 ◊ Residential Builders License #2102216207
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