Crime & Safety

Danvers Police Warn Residents About Chimney Sweeping Scam

"If it costs under $75, it's probably too good to be true," police said in a notice to residents.

DANVERS, MA -- Police say they have received several reports of a possible chimney sweeping scam targeting homeowners in Danvers. The company sends fliers offering a discount chimney cleaning and inspection, then tells the homeowner that their chimney is about to collapse or may be leaking carbon monoxide into the home. In some cases, they show fake photos and offer to fix the problem on the spot for an addition $2,000 to $3,000.

If the initial cost is "under 75, it’s probably too good to be true," police said in a notice. "You will be asked to pay for services immediately (around $2000-$3000). Often, there will be large damage to your chimney and possibly your home after this scam."

For more information, see the notice on the Town of Danvers Website.

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Dave Copeland can be reached at dave.copeland@patch.com or by calling 617-433-7851. Follow him on Twitter (@CopeWrites) and Facebook (/copewrites).

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