San Francisco chimney repair complaint

COMPLAINT: Margaret Schopp, San Francisco

"I called Mister Chimney about a chimney inspection. The inspector said the chimney needed cleaning, some interior repair work and a new cap and said a custom-fitted damper would solve the problem of some noise created by the wind.

"They completed the cleaning and repair work to my satisfaction, but the damper was a different story. They missed or were late to multiple appointments, and the new damper made the sound worse.

"I called to complain and asked for the original damper to be put back on, only to be told they'd been lying about the increased noise and having a damper to start with. They finally agreed to put the second damper up by the cap, and that didn't help at all.

"When I called to ask for my $650 refunded because the new damper didn't work, I didn't get a return phone call. I wrote a letter and it was returned, unopened. I sent a certified letter, only to have it refused. I'm now out $650 and have four blankets stuffed up my chimney just to keep the noise down."

DESIRED RESOLUTION: "I'd like a full refund of $650 for the damper within 30 days."

RESPONSE: Fatima Rodriguez, office manager, Mister Chimney

"We installed two custom-made dampers for the price of one. The noise doesn't come from the chimney, but from her neighbors - they have a wind directional cap that makes a lot of noise.

"Since their houses are so close together, [the member] thinks it's hers. We've never had a problem like this with our clients for more than 15 years."

STATUS: Stalemate