DISCIPLINE

In the first instant, any complaint should be made to the sweep involved, and this sweep should then try to resolve the matter in a satisfactory way.

If this procedure fails, APICS will consider any complaint if the complaint is in writing.

When a complaint is brought to the attention of APICS, three members (from a different area to the complaint) will be asked by the Chairman to investigate. The premises involved in the complaint will be visited and a full story of what happened will be taken from the complainant, and a full story will be taken from the sweep involved. These reports, together with a written report of any conclusions from the investigating sweeps will be brought to the next full meeting, when their decision would be made known.

If one of the investigating sweeps has to sweep the chimney to find out what has happened – so be it. Payment will be from the sweep if the complaint is upheld and from the complainant if the complaint is rejected. This should be made clear at the outset, to the customer and the sweep.

APPEAL PROCEDURE

If either the sweep or the complainant wishes to appeal, the Chairman shall appoint an independent member of the profession to act as an adjudicator. This person should be in such a position to know all about chimneys and their problems. All paperwork pertaining to this complaint will be sent to the adjudicator. His decision would be final.