COMPLAINT: Daniel Fuss, Larchmont, N.Y.

"My chimney was leaking smoke through its outer wall. Express Chimney Service recommended a steel liner for $1,800. They installed it, and now my fireplace is unusable because smoke back drafts heavily into the house once the fire gets going. I complained, and the company sent someone to evaluate it.

"He lit a piece of newspaper inside the fireplace, and the smoke went up the chimney, so he said, "Look, it's fine." A highly recommended chimney company told me that putting a liner that size into the fireplace I have is completely inadequate to provide proper draft, and it is unsafe because it creates a carbon monoxide hazard.

"Another technician from Express Chimney rechecked the fireplace and agreed that it was back drafting badly. The owner agreed that he would remove the liner and refund my money.

"I had appointments on two occasions to do the work, and they never showed up. When I reached the secretary after the second no-show, she asked if I could wait a few months until they had more cash coming in. I agreed.

"Long story short: despite constant phone calls and promises, they have yet to show up."

DESIRED RESOLUTION: "Express Chimney needs to remove the liner and refund my $1,800."

STATUS: Penalty Box