Whether you are looking for a chimney sweep or thinking of becoming one, you will need to understand the process by which a chimney sweep is certified. This certification proves that these people have been properly trained to install, maintain, clean and even repair chimneys.
Chimney Sweep Association of America (CSIA)
The CSIA requires candidates interested in obtaining CCS (Certified Chimney Sweep) credentials to pass two tests. Candidates will need three books to study and try. These currently include:
· Successful chimney sweep, 2011 Edition;
· NFPA 211, 2013 Edition; and
· International Residential Code, 2006 Edition.
The CSIA requires that all first-time exam takers must attend a review session (sessions are held nationwide) or attend a six-day hands-on program through the National Training School in Chimney sweep. Once these requirements are met, students must take two tests within a year of attending the review or program. The tests are supervised and can be taken in person on paper or online.
The first exam is based on the Successful chimney sweep and NFPA 211 textbooks. The closed-book exam must be completed in one hour and consists of a variety of true or drop and multiple-choice questions.
The second exam is based on the International Residential Code Text book. It is an open book exam and candidates have 90 minutes to complete it.
The CSIA requires individuals to recertify annually to maintain their credentials. Requirements include a combination of CEUs or Continuing Education Units, reviews, exams, and a fee. Sweeps that earn 48 CEUs in the year following certification do not need to attend a review or take an exam.
Certified Fireplace Professionals (CCP)
The CCP is an independent company that provides accreditation for chimney sweeps. It offers three different certifications and most sweeps prefer to obtain one of these credentials alongside their CSIA certification.
· Certified Fireplace Professional – Candidates must study a manual to understand fire codes and safety, and take an exam consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions and true or false questions. A score of 70% is required to obtain this credential.
· Chimney liner certification – Candidates for this credential should only study the Reliner CCP Manual provided by the company. The exam mimics the Certified Chimney Professional exam; There are 100 questions and candidates must score 70% to pass.
· Certified Master Chimney Technician – The Certified Master Chimney Technician is the highest credential available, and only sweepers who have eight years of experience along with six years of active certification can earn it. There is no exam; Candidates are only required to demonstrate their expertise through exam scores and certification badges, and must demonstrate that they have commercial liability insurance. Certification (and annual recertification) has a fee of $ 99.
When you hire a fireplace service, it is always a good idea to ask for credentials. This way, you can be sure that you are hiring an experienced and knowledgeable person to maintain, repair or clean your fireplace so that you and your family are safe.
