The tradition of Chimney Sweeps kissing the bride and shaking the groom's hand for good luck started about 200 years ago after a London chimney sweep saved the life of King George III.

You can expect them to carry all the necessary tools to service your chimney. These include HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) vacuums, creosote bushes, cameras, and chemical cleaners. The technician is often appropriately dressed for the tasks with goggles, gloves, and masks for protection from ash and soot.

A chimney sweep certificate, better known as a Certificate of Chimney Sweeping, is issued by a chimney sweep to a homeowner or landlord after a chimney has been swept. It outlines what tests were carried out during the sweep and if any defects or dangers were observed.

Soot was a priceless commodity to sweeps many years ago. Farmers would buy the product off sweeps, for their crop growing. James the Sweep will unbag the soot from the vacuum he uses, and he will take the debris away. Or – you may prefer to use the soot for growing veggies in the garden!