Chestnut Hill Chimney & Hearth
(603) 755-4835
Certifications, Licenses and Titles - what do they really mean?
Many states require chimney sweeps /contractors to be licensed in that state as Home Improvement Contractors or as Chimney Technicians. New Hampshire is an exception as there is no licensing possible for general chimney services, with the exception of gas service. Because there is no NH standard there are many of different titles and certifications claimed by various businesses. Some of these are legitimate and important, others less so, still others are completely meaningless. Hopefully the following definitions will help you:
CSIA Certified: Focused on chimney sweeping it is based largely on knowledge of current National Fire Codes (NFPA 211) and inspection levels. This certification is required by most states that have licensing. However many sweeps are not choosing to have this certification due to issues within the organization. Many states are recognizing alternative certifications as well. Mark Jones was CSIA certified for the majority of his career and has chosen to drop this certification.
NFI Certified: The National Fireplace Institute is the educational division of the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association. This is an association of hearth product manufacturers. There are 3 different technical certifications that can be earned by passing an exam: wood appliance, pellet appliance or gas appliance. These exams focus more intensely on service and proper installation of these appliances, although knowledge of the NFPA 211fire codes and inspections is also tested.
NFI Master Hearth Professional: Title awarded by NFI to someone who maintains all 3 certifications. Both Mark and David are Master Hearth Professionals.
NH Gas Fitters License: State Law that went into effect In January 2007, also known as "Amelia's Law". Anyone who installs, services or hooks up a gas appliance must have the appropriate license under NH Law. There are strict fines and potential jail time for non-compliance. To become licensed you must pass an exam (NFI Gas is one) and work for a licensed gas fitter for a specified amount of time. Mark maintains this license.
Maine Fuel Board: Propane & Natural Gas Technician: Appliance Connection & Service Technician: Maine also requires a license to work on gas appliances, there are several different categories and they are not interchangeable. This license allows us to install, service and hook up gas appliances in a home. This license requires passing a specific test for the state centering on gas laws, state laws, technical aspects and the NFPA codes. Mark maintains this license.
F.I.R.E. certified: A private independent business in California that offers classes on NFPA 211 inspections of existing installations. Very rare on the East Coast and not required by any East Coast State.
Member of....: There are many professional organizations that one can become a member of, usually by paying annual dues. These may include National Chimney Sweep Guild, Hearth Patio & Barbecue Association, National Fire Protection Agency and local groups such as a state guild (The NH Association of Chimney Professionals) or Chamber of Commerce. Most of these organizations require members to sign a code of ethics, many of them provide educational opportunities, trade shows etc to keep members up to date on the latest products and technology. If a homeowner believes that they have been scammed by a chimney professional that belongs to one of these organizations, the organization may be able to help resolve it.
Master Sweep: This is a "self awarded" title, there is no national, state or local standard to be met in order to advertise yourself as a Master Sweep. (Not to be confused with the legitimate NFI Master Hearth Professional title above)
Chimnologist: This is a title awarded by a specific poured liner manufacturer to the companies who purchase their product and have taken their in-house class. It has no specific meaning beyond that manufacturer.
When in doubt, check it out. The professional sweep should be able to explain to you what each certification or title means. Also all of the certified/member sweeps are listed on each organization's web site. (www.nficertified.org, www.csia.org, www.nhacp.org, www.nh.gov)
Mark (technical questions) chcs@metrocast.net
Laura (all other questions) chcsadmin@metrocast.net