Edison homeowners planning a chimney sweep this season should verify one thing first: Is your pro truly licensed and insured? We break down what that actually means for your safety, wallet, and peace of mind—plus how Elliot Chimney Inc meets (and exceeds) that standard.
Step 1: Verify the license covers Edison’s specific risks
My chimney’s 30 years old and sits just off Route 1. Why does that matter when checking a chimney sweep’s license? Edison’s older neighborhoods—like those near Menlo Park or near the Raritan Center—often have chimneys built before modern codes. A valid licensed Chimney Sweep Edison must cover structural repairs, not just cleaning. Ask for proof of New Jersey’s Home Improvement Contractor license (HIC #13VH09838800) and confirm it’s active on the state’s registry. If they hesitate, walk away. We display our license prominently on our services page and include it in every estimate.
Step 2: Demand proof of insurance—before the crew arrives
Why does my homeowner’s insurance care if my chimney sweep is insured? Because if a worker damages my roof or a neighbor’s property during cleaning, I don’t want to foot the bill. A licensed pro must carry general liability insurance (minimum $500k) and workers’ comp. Ask for a certificate naming *you* as an additional insured—it’s free and takes 24 hours to process. Elliot Chimney Inc provides this automatically with every free estimate. No exceptions. We’ve served Edison homes from Oak Tree Road to near the NJ Turnpike exit for years, and our coverage reflects that.