How did you get started in the trade and when was it?
In my previous life I was a secondary school teacher, teaching IT. I decided it was time for a change and I trained and set up my company in 2013. I am also a qualified HETAS stove installer.

What do you like most about being a Chimney Sweep?
I have a great rapport with my customers and to me customer satisfaction is very important. From sweeping, stove inspection, servicing to stove installation having the satisfaction that my customers are happy is very rewarding to me.

What is your favourite part of the job?
Getting out and meeting new people.

What do you think makes you a good, trustworthy Chimney Sweep?
I am a honest, hard working person. I expect people to be trustworthy to me so that’s what I deliver.

What would you like potential customers reading this to know about you?
I am always happy to help, offer advise and guidance.

What music or radio station do you listen to in your van?
Radio 4

Favourite book, Film, TV Series?
I enjoy reading Science Fiction. I’m a bit of a Star Trek fan, so happy to watch movies or old programmes!

When you’re not working what else do you like doing?
I work hard on my own home and garden! I like reading and walking.

How did you get started in the trade and when was it?
As a serving firefighter in west Yorkshire I noticed we were going to more and more chimney fires so I decided to become a chimney sweep and up the standard of sweeping by giving customers a professional competitive service. That was back in 2003 and I have not looked back.

What do you like most about being a Chimney Sweep?
I love the fact every day is different and meeting new people.

What is your favourite part of the job?
When I get a call to a problem chimney that other sweeps couldn’t sort out and we manage to rectify the problem.

What do you think makes you a good, trustworthy Chimney Sweep?
The fact I’m in the fire service, I’m local and known by lots of people and that know my work is all done to a high standard, and that they won’t be over charged.

What would you like potential customers reading this to know about you?
Just that we offer a professional service with the latest equipment on the market while still believing in traditional values.

What music or radio station do you listen to in your van?
Radio 2

Favourite book, Film, TV Series?
Shackleton. War horse.peakyblinders

When you’re not working what else do you like doing?
Like the gym and mountain bike riding and a good pint of beer.

How did you get started in the trade and when was it?
I started with a fire installation company in 2008 and then over the years my interest grew in the industry. I took a real interest in how chimneys work and the up-keep/maintenance of a chimney and quickly realised my favourite thing about that job was the sweeping of chimneys. I took the plunge and decided to set up my own chimney sweeping business in and I’m so pleased I did – I never looked back!

What do you like most about being a Chimney Sweep?
My favourite part is that my job never gets boring! There are new things to learn and solve almost every day. I feel genuinely excited and motivated on every job I go to and every customer I meet.

What is your favourite part of the job?
Knowing I have provided good customer service through word of my customers. I have many recommendations via word of mouth and it gives me much satisfaction knowing my customers have been happy with my services. I enjoy talking to customers ironing out any potential problems they my have and answering any questions using my experience.

What do you think makes you a good, trustworthy Chimney Sweep?
Providing good service is one of the most important things. Good customer service means helping customers efficiently, in a friendly manner. It’s essential to be able to handle issues for customers and do your best to ensure they are satisfied.

What would you like potential customers reading this to know about you?
I genuinely care. I care about my customers and the work that I do in their homes. I mindful of the fact that I am in the privacy of their home and treat it the respect it deserves. I want potential customers to know that if they get in touch with me, my quotes will be free, honest, fair and value for money. If I am chosen to do the work, I will be punctual, clean, trustworthy and provide them with the best aftercare advice required.

What music or radio station do you listen to in your van?
I like to listen to a variety of music, depending on my mood, I am fond of Classic FM and Heart FM. On the way home its usually Smooth FM.

Favourite book, Film, TV Series?
This is easy for me – Game of Thrones. There’s nothing quite like it! I’m a massive fan of the series and have a watched all 7 series too many times to say.

When you’re not working what else do you like doing?
I have 2 young boys (and a wife!) which keeps me busy when I’m not working. We like to do a variety of things as a family like riding bikes together, making dens, trips out and watching movies. I also have a keen interest in gardening, there is nothing quite like having tranquil place to enjoy with family in the summer months. I also enjoy growing really large pumpkins for the kids to enjoy at Halloween.

How did you get started in the trade and when was it?
The recession hit and my work as a demolition supervisor ended; twice!
My wife kept saying there are no chimney sweeps in our area, you should train up…

So I’d did, and in 2010 I completed my training and became my areas only local chimney sweep.

What do you like most about being a Chimney Sweep?
I love sweeping chimneys, there’s a certain satisfaction knowing you’ve done a really good job and made zero mess. People still think having their chimney swept means dust everywhere, when it is not the case anymore, when done by a trained professional.

I love chatting with my customers, and cracking the odd joke; they don’t call me the cheerful chimney sweep for nothing!

What is your favourite part of the job?
Meeting people, new and old. It’s strange how you remember a conversation you had a year ago and can follow up on it, once the “face” triggers a memory.

What do you think makes you a good, trustworthy Chimney Sweep?
In Devon, being on time…nobody is ever on time in Devon…

I’m open and honest and I have my own opinions- that’s me – and I’m very good at sweeping.

What would you like potential customers reading this to know about you?
I am a larger than life character, with a big heart. I really enjoy my work, and I take pride in my work. I am reliable and trustworthy, and I have an ever increasing customer base, largely by recommendation.

What music or radio station do you listen to in your van?
If I could, it’d be planet rock, but they deemed is “unworthy” this far down in Devon and removed it from the digital airwaves. So now it’s radio 2, and my AC/DC Cds.

Favourite book, Film, TV Series?
I have dyslexia
Still Game (I’m Scottish)
The Green Mile

When you’re not working what else do you like doing?
Baking cakes. I am a vegan, and I bake cakes. I make them because they’re damned good, and I donate a portion of the proceeds to good causes.

How did you get started in the trade and when was it?
I first started in the trade in 2005. At this period I saw there was a distinct lull, a time where older sweeps were retiring from the industry, yet around the same time, there was also a gradual increase in use and installation of solid fuel appliances. Being a traditionalist, I saw an opportunity to join this age old profession in its emerging renaissance, it’s rebirth.
Initially I trained with a very fickle sweep in Berkshire. He was indeed very meticulous in his methods, dare I say it, he was a tad slow along with it. That aside, his disciplined work ethic rubbed off on me and I still stick to the repetitive routine in setting up my gear, to ensure each individual job has at an equally high standard.
I also trained for a short period with another Wiltshire sweep, as I felt it pertinent to a fledgling business, to see a variety of working practices. This time however, my experience of his chimney sweeping techniques was at the other end of the spectrum to my previous work experience….hence it being so short!
I have, in my 13 years, trained two other sweeps, one who is now also a certified Sweep Safe member. Having given back into the industry is a really good feeling.
Now I’m proud to have a customer base of around 800 and growing.

What do you like most about being a Chimney Sweep?
What I love about being a chimney sweep is being part of a growing family of chimney sweeps, that are selfless in passing on tricks of the trade and that are all striving towards the same goal….which is to highlight the importance of fire safety in the home, freely educating customers as to best practices, keeping abreast of the latest techniques & equipment and ensuring the future of our industry continues to maintain high standards for our number one priority, the customer!

What is your favourite part of the job?
The best part of my job is being content in the fact that I’ve made a difference. Not only eliminating the risk of a chimney fire, but also reducing air pollution.
I also love the interaction with customers. I can tell you that after going to the same customer for over 10 years, each visit is a bit like an annual catch up with an old friend.
For example; I’ve been going to one particular customer since I started in 2005. After 4 years they had a daughter, a few months after the birth of my daughter. Every year we compare where each girl is at in their development, which is super cool.

What do you think makes you a good, trustworthy Chimney Sweep?
A good and trustworthy sweep is one that keeps appointments, as near to the arranged time as possible.
I usually give a 30 minute window for arrival. If I get unavoidably delayed, due to things like traffic or needing to extending a previous job, I always call or text the next customer to update them.
Also, it may take a couple of visits for me to strike up a good rapport with customer, after which they feel at ease, allowing you into their homes….so both first and second impressions do count!

What would you like potential customers reading this to know about you?
For any potential customers, considering using Dusty Sweeps, you can be rest assured that the service I offer is of the highest standard. I have 13 years of 100% customer satisfaction to be proud of and I continue to learn, adapt and improve my skills. I don’t rest on my laurels, nor get set in my ways.
In recent months I have decided to polish up my business, by joining a chimney sweeping association. After careful consideration, of all the chimney sweeping governing bodies, I felt that Sweep Safe mirrored the same work ethic I adhere to and I am very proud to be associated with them.
Only a few weeks ago I was assessed on the job by Neil, of Sweep Safe, to check I was working to the current chimney sweeping industry standards they advocate and employ.
I shall also be further improving my knowledge and skills by completing a H009 HETAS course, this year. This will give me valuable guidance on safe solid fuel installation regulations, so I could then pass on advice to customers on any remedial work required to make their appliance safe for use.

What music or radio station do you listen to in your van?
On my way to and between jobs, I tune into a local radio station called ‘SAM FM’.
They have a 9am-5pm, non repeat (songs) session, playing music from 90’s and 00’s….if you’re local tune in, it’s mint!!

Favourite book, Film, TV Series?
The only books I read are by John Grisham novels, as I love the court case based dramas.
I’m really into my 1940’s era, so I love most WW2 films/TV Series.

When you’re not working what else do you like doing?
Aside chimney sweeping I’m also a full-time firefighter, with Dorset & Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service. The shift pattern I’m currently on allows me to sweep about 3-4 days a week.
As mentioned previously, I love anything 1940’s. I used to chair a committee, where we organised a local Military/Vintage weekend, called ‘Lacock at War’. I’ve also organised several vintage themed dances, where profits went to local charities…and I’ve even wedding planned a 1940’s wedding!
When I do get time in between all my passions and my family, I like to go walking with serving and ex-fire service members….to the Brecon Beacons, Lake District etc.

How did you get started in the trade and when was it?
After a lifestyle and career change in 2016 I joined the fire service as an on call fire-fighter. We regularly turn out to chimney fires during the colder months and this gave me the idea of training to become a chimney sweep.

What do you like most about being a Chimney Sweep?
I love that every day is different, every chimney is different and the variety of the job. This at times can be challenging, but it can also be rewarding too. I love passing on my knowledge to customers, so they can get the most from their fireplace. I also love meeting and chatting with my customers and the coffee and biscuits are an added bonus too!

What is your favourite part of the job?
Definitely the coffee and biscuits!!!
Oh and the satisfaction of seeing a safe, clean chimney knowing the customer can enjoy their fire and the reward that comes with it.

What do you think makes you a good, trustworthy Chimney Sweep?
I’m naturally a very conscientious person. This means I go the extra mile and do my best every time. My reputation is extremely important to me, so it’s important I have high standards to maintain it.

What would you like potential customers reading this to know about you?
I aim to provide an excellent service for a fair price.

What music or radio station do you listen to in your van?
Mainly radio 2, or if I’m lucky the kids leave their “Frozen” CD in their!

Favourite book, Film, TV Series?
I like endurance running, so I’m a fan of running books.
The only t.v. I get to watch is Paw patrol.

When you’re not working what else do you like doing?
I have a young family, so I’m kept pretty busy with them. If I get any time to myself, I like to go for a run.

How did you get started in the trade and when was it?
I started in the chimney sweeping trade in 2016 after completing an industry recognised course. The training never stops and I have already been on 3 other courses just this year already.

What do you like most about being a Chimney Sweep?
Every job is different, I also get to meet some amazing characters and their properties.

What is your favourite part of the job?
Leaving a customers solid flue systems safe and ready to heat the heart of there homes.

What do you think makes you a good, trustworthy Chimney Sweep?
I strive to keep up with current best working methods and also the evolving legislation. It is important to be able to advise the customer correctly. I also pride myself on finding solutions to the large number of customers installations issues.

What would you like potential customers reading this to know about you?
My aim is the leave your solid appliances in a safe condition to be enjoyed. I’m trustworthy, a good worker and customer feedback is very positive and important to me.

What music or radio station do you listen to in your van?
X-fm

Favourite book, Film, TV Series?
Fact based books & TV for me

When you’re not working what else do you like doing?
I enjoy trying to keep fit & spending time with my family + dog.

How did you get started in the trade and when was it?
I was coming to the end of a 26 year career in the Royal Marines with no idea what to do. Fortune favoured me as I bumped into a former marine who wanted to take on someone to teach to become a chimney sweep, and ultimately take over the round. I additionally attended the HETAS H003 course, and more in depth sweep training with The Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps. In April 2016 I took over the round by myself, and have enjoyed my new career.

What do you like most about being a Chimney Sweep?
Every day is different, meet new people, and it’s also nice to return to regular customers and chat about what’s happened in their lives since my last visit. I also like the camaraderie between sweeps making lots of new friends and acquaintances during the various get together.

What is your favourite part of the job?
Leaving a property  satisfied that I’ve done a good job, and the positive feedback I get.

What do you think makes you a good, trustworthy Chimney Sweep?
A strong moral compass. If I run across something I can’t deal with, I’ll arrange a solution – I won’t sweep it under the carpet.

What would you like potential customers reading this to know about you?
If you book me, you’ll get a first class and trustworthy sweep who will arrive on time.

What music or radio station do you listen to in your van?
Radio 2, Radio 6 Music, Absolute Radio, Radio X

Favourite book, Film, TV Series?
Too many to list. Currently enjoying Westworld and Legion on TV. Just read a great book about Norse Mythology by Neil Gaiman.

When you’re not working what else do you like doing?
Support Exeter Chiefs with my son Rory, walk my dogs, consider the endless to-do list my wife presents me with.

How did you get started in the trade and when was it?
My father was a sweep and I learnt from around the age of 8 by going out with my father.

What do you like most about being a Chimney Sweep?
I really enjoy the process of cleaning chimneys which on the face of it would appear to be a simple job however that couldn’t be further from the truth.

What is your favourite part of the job?
Interacting with the people.

What do you think makes you a good, trustworthy Chimney Sweep?
Always giving my honest opinion which I am able to back up with my many years of training and hard work.

What would you like potential customers reading this to know about you?
I truly enjoy my job and I endeavour to carry out the task in hand to the highest possible standards at a reasonable price.

What music or radio station do you listen to in your van?
Radio 2

Favourite book, Film, TV Series?
Game of thrones and the walking dead

When you’re not working what else do you like doing?
mountain biking and spending time with my family

How did you get started in the trade and when was it?
A good friend is a Master Chimney Sweep and when I needed a career change from factory management to spend at least some time with my family he generously offered to “show me the rods”, I’ve never looked back and owe him a great deal.

What do you like most about being a Chimney Sweep?
It’s a good feeling when you can do something that will keep a family safe in their home and even just performing a straight forward sweep gives the householder peace of mind which is rewarding .
Oh ,… and cake …. But don’t tell Naomi…

What is your favourite part of the job?
I like to meet new customers and provide them with the best service , then it’s nice to witness the passage of time as they become regulars .
I’ve been known to find the odd Santa hat up the chimney before Christmas and I love to see the kids (and adults) scream with delight when it’s pulled out .
It ain’t a bad job being a sweep!

What do you think makes you a good, trustworthy Chimney Sweep?
Being a good trustworthy human being!
I’ve got an enhanced DBS check and am trading standards approved just to reassure customers but really it’s just who you are as a person.

What would you like potential customers reading this to know about you?
I’m a professional sweep and HETAS Installer, I take education and self-improvement seriously to provide customers with the best service.
And that I was joking about the cake.

What music or radio station do you listen to in your van?
Just Radio 4 these days

Favourite book, Film, TV Series?
The Quiet man, John Wayne, I don’t know why ? I used to love the black and white Twilight Zone as a kid. But in truth, now I watch an awful lot of Charlie and Lola.

When you’re not working what else do you like doing?
In the summer ill be camping somewhere near a beach with the family.