Estimates

Why we charge, When we charge, and what you can expect!!!!

One of the most common statements we hear on the phone is,  "You do not do free estimates, but it will only take 10 minutes to stop by and take a look!" 

And in some cases you are correct.  Estimates vary and there is a big difference between a broken damper handle and evaluating a water problem.  However, if you have lived here long enough to drive to the store and back, then I am sure that you understand that nothing in Northern Virginia takes 10 minutes, when it involves a car.

Estimate Charge Reimbursement: Your Estimate or Inspection fee will be reimbursed fully off your final invoice once we are hired to do the work.  This makes the estimate free for you if we are hired.  Gas Inspections are not reimbursable. 

Locking you in:  We are not trying to "Lock you in" to any job. Charging allows us to be more attentive to our customers needs and allows us extra time to examine and explain any problems or concerns.  It also allows us to take less appointments in a day.  This benefit is passed on to you by having a smiling, professional at your door instead of a road raged, rushed, overworked technician.  You can expect our technicians to be professional, trustworthy, honest and in uniform at all time.  Should you get anything less, please call the office and ask to speak to Christine.

Other Companies:  There are other chimney companies that perform free estimates.  I have heard customers complain that a company either did not show up or showed up hours late.  That is probably because a paying customer called and wanted the same time slot and they were forced to "dump" the free estimates for the day. 

Here at Mitchel's if you are paying for that appointment slot, that is the same as a reservation and we will show up with in the time frame specified. (there are certain circumstances which the technician can be late, but we will do our best to let the customer know as soon as possible.) 

Another problem that customers have when dealing with companies with free estimates, is qualifications, many of these companies do not have certified or experienced technicians or references, so even though they have a free estimate, they suddenly find they don't trust it.

" Selling the Job"  If a chimney company does not charge for estimates than there is a great deal of pressure on them to "sell" the job, and that pressure is felt by the customer,  They have to make up the costs some how, and that could mean not doing a full evaluation and just offering quick inexpensive fixes that won't last.

At Mitchel's you can expect a full visual inspection on your entire appliance, followed by a detailed, accurate written estimate.  In most cases, you can expect the technician to set up his ladder and perform a full, roof top, inspection.  (Technician has the right to refuse if area is unsafe, wet or icy, but the customer reserves the right to reschedule when conditions change) 

Curious Customers: For customers who are just curious what a service would cost and are at the beginning of their research process, you are more then welcome to call our office, most of our Administrative staff in the office could get you a loose cost estimate on any job you are planning, you are also welcome to fax over another companies estimate and we could write up the estimate with our prices.  (please keep in mind that we will not accept any job that we have not personally seen, this is just a service for the curious shopper)

Masonry Too?  Lets not forget the masonry, we are a full service company and we perform services that most chimney companies will not.  Not only can we sweep your chimney, dryer vent or kitchen vents but we can also custom build a fireplace, perform new chimney construction and even stone or brick patios and landscaping.

Qualified Staff:  A lot of chimney companies, usually the ones that offer free estimates are not fully licensed, insured and bonded.  Not only is our company fully insured, but you are more than welcome to call the office and arrange to have "proof of insurance" fax or mailed to you.  ("proof of insurance", is a document that is send out by the actual insurance company, not by the company itself, this way you know it is valid and up to date)

Due Diligence: With today's technology and the internet you can research a company at the better business bureau or any number of referral sites.  This saves time and money for both the companies and customers, because most customers can do their due diligence and check out a companies reputation online in just minutes.  We encourage customers to do just that with today's gas prices most companies can no longer afford to dispatch their employees out for free.