Steven Carter is a master sweep, having swept well over 40,000 chimneys in the past four decades.
Though he might not dance on rooftops like Dick Van Dyke’s cockney sweep in “Mary Poppins,” the London-born Carter does follow the old English tradition with Chimney Sweeps Inc., the company he founded in 1985.
Chimney Sweeps is family-owned and -operated, with Carter’s wife, Valerie, sister Georgia and sons Julian and Ariel all involved.
The La Jolla Light approached Carter’s son Julian Margo, the executive director, to find out more.
Q. What does a chimney sweep do?
A. The responsibility of a chimney sweep or contractor is twofold. First, it is to ensure that the chimneys and fireplaces in use in our neighborhoods are as safe and efficient as possible and, second, to ensure that the structural integrity of a chimney and fireplace is maintained properly to prevent damage to the home.
Q. Why is it important to maintain a chimney or fireplace?
A. Neglected chimneys or fireplaces can be a major fire hazard if/when they are used and a major source of damage or deterioration to the home when left for long periods of time without proper maintenance.
Q. What makes Chimney Sweeps unique compared with similar businesses?
A. Chimney Sweeps Inc. is one of the longest-running family-owned chimney companies in San Diego and one of the only full-service fireplace and chimney contractors, specializing in installations, repairs, service and rebuilds.
Q. What should people know when choosing a chimney or fireplace company?
A. Sadly, the internet and search engines are filled with unlicensed, uninsured and often predatory chimney and fireplace companies. Having a location, a website or a few reviews on the internet is no longer enough to ensure a company is legitimate. Making a call and confirming a business’s address as well as their license and insurance information is a great step for homeowners to avoid scam companies.
Q. What are some other ways homeowners can protect themselves from unlicensed and unqualified companies or contractors?
A. The Southwest Chimney Sweep Guild (swcsg.org) or the National Chimney Sweep Guild (ncsg.org) are great resources to confirm legitimate companies in your area and avoid fake pop-up companies out to make a quick buck.
Chimney Sweeps Inc. is headquartered at 10036 Maine Ave. in Lakeside but works throughout San Diego County. For more information, call 619-457-6144 or visit chimneysweepsinc.com.
— Business Spotlight features enterprises that this publication. ♦
