Three missed or delayed appointments, a wood stove that still needed service, and one ambitious U.S.C. business student comprised the formula that initiated Top Hat Sweepers, Columbia’s premier chimney and fireplace service company. That was 30 years and 14,000 homes ago.
Ron Rust, founder and owner, has a simple philosophy that has led to the success and growth of the business over the years. “I treat each house as if it were mine and each client the way I would like to be treated,” he says. He has deliberately limited the growth of the business to maintain the quality of service that is the cornerstone of his business philosophy.
As a member of the South Carolina Chimney Sweep Guild and the National Chimney Sweep Guild, Rust uses each customer contact as an opportunity to educate the public on the value of using only sweeps certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America. There is no licensing requirement for chimney sweeps, but the CSIA certification insures homeowners that their sweep is an industry professional who is qualified to perform the inspections and services needed. “The best part of my job is helping people not only enjoy the warmth and comfort that comes from using their fireplace, but also helping them protect their investment in their homes,” he says.
Top Hat Sweepers has a long record of community support and involvement and giving back to the community, which has sustained the business. Top Hat Sweepers approaches its 31st year of inspecting, cleaning, repairing and protecting chimneys and fireplaces, as well as now servicing dryer vents. The success of the business is truly a sign of how a good idea can blossom into a great business when hard work, creativity and integrity are applied to the work product.
For more info or to schedule an appointment, call (803) 730-5858.
