On average, for a standard chimney sweep, you can expect to pay between £60 to £90. However, for more complex jobs or for chimneys that haven't been cleaned in a long time, the price can rise to around £100 to £120. Get a few quotes from different chimney sweepers to ensure you're getting a fair price.

It's a good idea to have it swept at least once a year, and potentially more if you use your fireplace frequently. The benefits of having your chimney cleaned include decreased risk of fire, improved air quality in your home, and prevention of dangerous build-up like creosote.

If the sticky soot deposits were not regularly cleaned, toxic fumes would fill the homes. With the increased use of coal, chimney sweeps became a symbol not only of a good hearth but also of good health, since they restored clean air in homes.

The 1840 Act prohibited any person under 21 being compelled or knowingly allowed to ascend or descend a chimney or flue for sweeping, cleaning or coring. This Act ensured all chimney-sweeps would be registered with the police, and that official supervision of their work would take place.