As the winter season approaches, it is imperative that chimney accessories such as flue liners for woodburners are checked but safety officials and chimney sweeping companies are warning homeowners in Massachusetts to be aware of potential scams in the area.
The Patriot Ledger has reported that some chimney repair companies in the South Shore region of the state have already lodged complaints about illegal fraudsters that are seeking their money and offering repair work when it is not required.
Jeanmarie Jacobson, an officer at the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep Guild, said: "It should be a red flag to everybody if they are getting unsolicited phone calls or knocks on the door."
Last month, an incident of chimney cleaning fraud occurred in Maine, USA, as Sea Coast Online reported that local resident Shaye Robbins was contacted by an alleged maintenance company who promised to offer heating services. After an investigation, it was concluded that she was subjected to a fraud attempt.