What will I be doing?

There are more than 4,700 full-time chimney sweep services in the U.S. The chimney-sweep business is busiest in the fall and winter, and less busy in the spring and summer. So this is a good opportunity for those who work jobs or have other home businesses that are busier in the spring and summer. The income is good because it is a job that many people can’t or don’t want to do for themselves.

A chimney sweep service cleans residential and commercial chimneys and flues of soot and other byproducts of fuel-burning heat systems. The job of cleaning chimneys, if done right, isn’t as dirty as imagined. However, it typically requires that you climb up on roofs to operate the cleaning equipment.

What will I need to start?

Chimney cleaning isn’t rocket science. However, it does require a working knowledge of how to efficiently clean chimneys without dirtying your customer’s home or office. If you don’t have experience in this task, find books that explain the process and the needed tools. You can also learn about chimney sweeps by hiring one. If your home doesn’t have a chimney or you live in an apartment, hire one for a friend who has a chimney and watch the sweep at work.

Who will my customers be?

Your customers will be homeowners, business owners, apartment building owners and commercial building owners. You may decide to specialize in one type or another, or you may even expand your business to include selling heating system components.

Go after your customers through advertising and fliers. Call on local fireplace shops and heating system suppliers.