London’s chimney sweeping trade is witnessing an unexpected revival as more households revert to traditional forms of heating in response to rising energy bills and growing anxiety about the reliability of electricity supplies, according to a report by The New York Times. What was once seen as a fading, almost historical profession is now regaining relevance amid economic pressure and energy insecurity.
The occupation had steadily declined after central heating became common and stricter clean air regulations were introduced in the latter half of the 20th century. However, that trend has begun to reverse. Data from the National Association of Chimney Sweeps shows that its membership has grown to around 750 professionals today, compared with roughly 590 members in 2021, reflecting renewed interest in chimney maintenance and solid-fuel heating.
Association president Martin Glynn told the newspaper that the growth is being driven by households looking for reliable backup heating options. He said many people are increasingly concerned about potential electricity outages, influenced by geopolitical instability and warnings about threats to power infrastructure from hostile states such as Russia. According to Glynn, homeowners are thinking pragmatically about resilience, opting for fireplaces or stoves so they can continue heating their homes and cooking food even if the power grid fails, provided they can burn logs or smokeless fuel.
Long-established family-run chimney businesses that managed to survive decades of decline are now reporting heavy demand. Josh Firkins, whose family has been in the chimney sweeping business since 1860, said his firm now receives between 70 and 80 calls a day during the winter season. He noted that demand typically rises during periods of economic hardship, adding that high energy prices and cost-of-living pressures are once again pushing people toward alternative heating methods. Although open fires are less efficient than modern heating systems, Firkins said they allow households to reduce reliance on central heating, and those with access to inexpensive or free wood can significantly cut costs.
The trade itself has evolved considerably from its historical image. Glynn explained that modern chimney sweeps are more accurately described as chimney technicians, using advanced tools such as CCTV inspection cameras and smoke-testing equipment. This marks a stark contrast to the dangerous and exploitative practice of sending children up chimneys, which was outlawed in 1875 and remains a dark chapter in the industry’s past.
At the same time, the resurgence has raised environmental and public health concerns. Scientists and environmental campaigners warn that wood-burning fires and stoves emit fine particulate matter known as PM2.5, which has been linked to respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular disease, and even dementia. These concerns have prompted tighter regulation and public health guidance.
In England, traditional coal sales for domestic use were banned in 2023, although smokeless fuels are still allowed. The British government advises households to have chimneys professionally swept at least once a year and to use the cleanest fuels available in order to reduce air pollution and health risks.
Despite environmental warnings, industry representatives say demand shows little sign of slowing. Continued uncertainty over energy security, combined with persistently high utility costs, suggests that chimney sweeping—once thought to be a relic of the past—may continue to enjoy a renewed and sustained relevance in modern Britain.
