Mobile chimney sweep and inspection service

Homeowners with wood or gas fireplaces, landlords, property managers and people buying or selling a house who need an inspection.

Flat fee per sweep or inspection, with add-ons like chimney caps, animal removal and minor repairs. Repeat yearly customers and referrals from realtors and home inspectors build steady work.

• Comfortable working on roofs and in tight spaces
• Attention to detail and safety
• Clear communication with homeowners
• Basic mechanical know-how

• General liability insurance, and check whether your state or city requires a license or registration for chimney work
• Falls from roofs are a real risk, so use proper fall protection and check your workers' compensation needs once you hire
• Soot and creosote dust are messy and a health concern, so use a good vacuum, drop cloths and a respirator
• Missing a hazard in an inspection can create liability, so keep written reports and photos
• Business is seasonal in many areas, with the busiest time usually before and during cold weather

Startup costs are typically around $2,500 to $12,000, depending on your vehicle, tools, cameras and safety gear. These are estimates, and your total may be higher or lower depending on insurance, any license or registration, and whether you buy used equipment.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on how many jobs you book and the mix of sweeping, inspections and small repairs. These are estimates. Business is seasonal in many areas, often busiest before and during cold weather.

Check whether your state or city requires a license or registration for chimney work, and arrange general liability insurance. Also plan for roof fall protection, workers' compensation once you hire, dust protection, and written reports with photos.