Question: Can I Book a Chimney Sweep During the Coronavirus (Covid-19) Pandemic?

It’s a question many have asked since the start of lockdown…

The Covid-19 lockdown brought many home service trades to a grinding halt.

Some professional chimney sweeps either reduced their work to emergencies-only, or simply shut down.

But now, as the weeks and months pass, more and more are starting to prepare for reopening.

Some are operating waiting/call-back lists. Others are taking bookings for specific dates. Each sweep will be different.

It goes without saying that you should NEVER allow anyone into your home if you, or person you are living with, has either been diagnosed with Covid-19, or showing symptoms of the virus. Likewise, a sweep should never be visiting properties if they have coronavirus or symptoms. And visits should be avoided if you are shielding. All parties should observe official advice on this.

However, beyond that there is nothing stopping you from getting your chimney swept.

There has been a strong misconception that only designated key workers can work. This is not the case.

Current guidance is that those people who cannot work from home (such as sweeps) can continue to undertake work, provided they follow official guidance relating to employment as set out by the government.

Some are actually going above and beyond recommended guidance and have put in their own stricter measures and written procedures.

New measures may include:

⁃ Enhanced Personal Protective Equipment

⁃ Use of appropriate disinfectants and sanitisers

⁃ Issuing appointment preparation guidance to customers

⁃ Providing social distancing-compliant measures for issuing of certificates and accepting payments.

Some may even have completed awareness training in Infection Prevention and Control.

Here at Mr Soot, we have completed one with the World Health Organisation specifically in Novel Coronavirus, and another course which is ROSPA and CPD certified.

To our mind, it is vital we have as much knowledge as possible to give customers confidence that we are taking our responsibilities seriously.

The good news is that there are number of professional sweeps who can demonstrate this, over and above their standard professional standards and accreditations.

Most are well versed in risk assessment and management, and sweeping is among some of the most diligent trades when it comes to this sort of thing.

In the last few months, with more people being at home, fireplace usage has risen in local areas. Chillier nights and the odd cooler day have meant that appliances which would have normally lay dormant have been fired up.

Therefore the need to have your chimney swept is perhaps even greater now. The soot will still be in your flue, and will still need removing by a professional.

Coupled with the fact that local businesses and tradespeople have taken a massive hit recently, your custom and patronage is now needed more than ever…

Mr Soot Chimney Sweep is a HETAS Approved Sweep, and member of the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps, offering a professional and friendly chimney sweep and stove service. Book Mr Soot online or call 0800 0541154.