Why CSIA's Credentials are the Industry Standard |
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As in many industries, certifications provided by different organizations are not necessarily equal. Here's what sets CSIA's credentials above the rest.
Longevity
The CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® (CCS) credential was established in 1983 to provide homeowners a means to measure a chimney sweep’s technical expertise. Non-Profit Status The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) is a non-profit organization governed by volunteer industry professionals and technical experts located across the country. Code of Ethics In addition to passing a rigorous examination, each person wishing to hold a CSIA certification must also agree to abide by a stringent Code of Ethics. We feel this is critical to protecting homeowners from potential scams. If a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep is found to be in violation, their certification may be revoked. Focus on Public Safety and Industry Advancement
CSIA does more for the industry than certify chimney sweeps. CSIA’s mission includes public and professional education with a commitment to the elimination of residential chimney fires, carbon monoxide intrusion and other chimney-related hazards that result in the loss of lives and property. Continuing Education CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps must re-certify through examination or continuing education credits every three years. Since the industry is constantly evolving, CSIA does not believe in providing a "one-and-done" lifetime certification. Reciprocal Affiliated Trades Relationships CSIA devotes its resources to educating the public and related industries through traditional and social media and its relationships with affiliated trades such as home inspectors, realtors, and homeowner associations. Many of these same trade groups promote CSIA's mission through their own channels. National Recognition CSIA is the go-to source for accurate chimney safety information. CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps have been spotted on Good Morning America, Dateline and 20/20, in the New York Times, Consumer Reports and Popular Mechanics, among many other national, regional and local publications and media. |
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A Important Note About Chimney Sweeping Certifications:
Certification can be a tricky concept in an unregulated (or mostly unregulated) industry like chimney sweeping. With no official oversight, potentially anyone can draft an “exam” and provide a paper certificate or ID badge to those who pass ... And this can really make things complicated for consumers.
On one hand, an alternate chimney sweeping certification with fewer educational requirements and business standards makes it easier for industry professionals to advertise themselves as being "certified", it also forces consumers to do more thorough vetting of service providers if they want to be sure they are hiring the most qualified person for the job. In short, not all certifications are created equal.
While CSIA values competition, our first priority will always be public safety and awareness.
Certification can be a tricky concept in an unregulated (or mostly unregulated) industry like chimney sweeping. With no official oversight, potentially anyone can draft an “exam” and provide a paper certificate or ID badge to those who pass ... And this can really make things complicated for consumers.
On one hand, an alternate chimney sweeping certification with fewer educational requirements and business standards makes it easier for industry professionals to advertise themselves as being "certified", it also forces consumers to do more thorough vetting of service providers if they want to be sure they are hiring the most qualified person for the job. In short, not all certifications are created equal.
While CSIA values competition, our first priority will always be public safety and awareness.