Chimney Sweep Franchise UK
Wilkins Chimney Sweep Limited

WILKINS CHIMNEY SWEEP, established 1895, is a business with a long history. Based on a proven, recession proof model, we are offering a full marketing package, all equipment, comprehensive practical and business training and continued support.

Why not become a part of the WILKINS CHIMNEY SWEEP team and enjoy all the benefits of working for yourself in a proven, long established business, with tremendous start up and support packages to back you up?

Increasing numbers of households are turning to their open fires to supplement their heating options and reduce their utility bills – not to mention enjoy the relaxing effects of a real fire.

Insurance companies insist that properties are properly maintained and this includes an annual chimney sweep (sometimes more frequently in some circumstances).

We offer three main services:

1. Chimney sweeping
2. Nest removal from chimneys
3. Cage, cap and cowl fitting to chimneys

We typically work indoors sweeping and removing nests. The cages, caps and cowls are fitted directly to the chimney pots – if ladder work doesn’t appeal, there is an alternative solution.

Our services can be delivered 7 days per week but our model is based on 5 days – this may include Saturdays if you choose. Of course, there is a peak demand in the winter because people think about lighting their fires when it gets cold, but we work all year round to a proven system for regular customers.

WILKINS CHIMNEY SWEEP was established in 1895 as a family run business. We have been going from strength to strength ever since, with the launch of the franchise in 2010. Following a well established process to find and maintain customers, and a structured process to deliver the service, the chimney sweeping business is a fun and, with a very high level of repeat business, a profitable one.

Developing The Franchise

We have developed our franchise model through franchise consultant, Clive Sawyer of Business Options. We did this, rather than go it alone, in order to ensure that we have something to offer that was a viable and independently assessed business proposition that would be profitable for all parties.

Experienced Directors

We are new to the market as a franchise but both Directors have franchise experience as franchisees. Louise delivers induction training for another franchisor. Peter has been sweeping chimneys since 1996 and has trained a number of sweeps already. We believe we have secured, and followed, some of the best advice in the market.

With our long established business, and personal 'hands on' experience, we feel well placed to offer an excellent business opportunity.

We anticipate that the franchise will develop as we grow and we’d like keen individuals, who’d like to be part of the success, to join us.

The Franchise Owners

Franchisees will need to be:

• Good with people
• In good health
• Self motivated
• Hard working and ambitious
• Determined and enthusiastic to succeed
• Able to solve problems in a practical manner

and have:

• An aptitude for DIY
• A Customer Service Focus
• Good attention to detail
• A full UK driving license with no
  (or only minor) endorsements

Our typical customer is a residential home owner, although increasingly hotels and businesses are turning to real fires as an added attraction for their guests and visitors.

Because we work in peoples homes, all our sweeps are police checked to protect our customers.

Is WILKINS CHIMNEY SWEEP right for you?

We can train people to deliver the service…but you need to have the right skills and aptitude to run your own business and be successful.

Training

There is a comprehensive initial training programme including:

• on the job training with a time served chimney sweep who will ensure that you are able to deliver all aspects of our business from a practical and customer service perspective
• classroom based training in the unique booking system, business administration, sales and marketing.
• In territory training to support the initial training process in both practical and business administration if required

This programme is just to get things started. Ongoing support and training is offered as necessary.

Support for Franchisees

We know how important it is to receive support – and everyone will have different needs and concerns, so the support offered covers all areas. Our goal is to keep all aspects of the business system very simple, but support is always available.

The Rewards

You’ll be your own boss, with support when required.

We fully expect franchise owners to recover their set up costs in the first year - on target net profit is approximately £35,000.

Within three years, franchise owners can expect to be earning around £60,000 net profit and can anticipate rewards of around £99,000 after 5 years of trading.

You will offer an important community facility that has a crucial safety aspect for your customers. We also think that you will have a great quality of life – you meet some fabulous people, young and old, wealthy and not-so wealthy, introvert, extrovert and all things in between, and most people realise that your service is invaluable.