716-482-7417

I contacted a chimney sweep named Mr-Chimney at a local area code number (716-482-7417). The service call was for an inspection of the chimney for $89.00 and a cleaning for $89.00. Two service techs arrived and did a quick inspection of the chimney and stated that I needed a “deep clean” of the chimney otherwise I was at high risk for a potential fire in the chimney. The deep clean was for $449.00. I agreed to the cleaning as I was concerned that there may be a potential fire hazard. The techs went up on my roof and then came back to state that the chase cover on my chimney was old and flat and that the water from rain and snow would damage the wood and siding on the chimney causing me to need to replace the chimney in the near future. They offered me a 10 percent discount on the installation and replacement of the chase cover for a total of $3,272.27 which included the “deep clean”. Again, I was concerned with future damage and agreed to contract for the installation of the chase cover. The tech then said I would need to give a deposit of ½ down to order the chase cover which was $1,600.00. He then showed me his tablet with a tip screen of 10, 20 or 30 percent option. I felt an awkward feeling with the tech handing this to me and was embarrassed to not respond so I authorized a 20 percent tip which I was under the impression was for the service of the “deep clean”, the service that was provided that day. All of this transaction happened rather quickly giving me no time to think through the information. My concern at that point was for the safety of my house. I received the invoice in my email after to techs left. I was shocked to see that the 20 percent tip was for the full service of the deep clean and the chase cover installation (which had not been provided that day). They charged my visa $305.82 for a tip however the only work completed that day was for the deep clean for $449 [BBB Scam Type: Other] [Business: Mr-Chimney] [Location: NY, USA - 14086]