I had Top Hat come out to check my chimney to make sure it was safe to have a fire for this winter (2015). They were on time for their appointment. The technician spent about 10-15 minutes and I paid them $129.00 + tax. He just put his broom up the stack. He told me I had 3 loose bricks and would send a tech out to fix the problem and also would bring out a replacement screen for the top (the screen at no charge). I just received a phone call from the tech that it would cost $275.00 to fix the 3 loose bricks and he also told me that the initial service tech should not of told me the screen would be no charge. I declined their service and would never use them again.
- Approximate cost of services:
- $275.00
- Company Response
Dear Lorril,
I am very sorry that you felt your experience with Top Hat Chimney was not a positive one. I can't really comment on the chimney sweeping appointment, except to say that our technicians are WETT certified, and have been with our company for many years. I know that they take great pride in knowing that they are doing a thorough job for the homeowner. It is quite possible that the chimney was not very dirty and required less time to clean than is usual.
As far as the quote for replacing bricks, we do offer qualified brick-masons for all of our repair work, and of course must charge for their time and material. Even though 3 loose bricks doesn't sound like much, it can take a fair bit of time to repair it properly (especially when working on a chimney 30' off the ground).
I really hope that you will change your mind and try us again in the future, so that we may have a chance to win back your patronage.
Yours truly,
Steve