About
us

Horizon was founded in 1993 by James Burns and Graham Farn with a determination to create a business with the power to protect thousands of buildings and people. In their own words:

“We said we could do it better than others – and that’s still the case today.”

More than three decades later, that same commitment continues to drive everything we do. From humble beginnings, Horizon has grown into a trusted provider of specialist chimney, lightning protection, inspection, and height safety services, working with clients across a wide range of sectors throughout the UK.

Our reputation has been built on quality, integrity, and a safety-first approach. We are passionate about protecting people, preserving buildings and tall structures, and helping our clients meet the highest standards of safety and compliance. By combining technical expertise with exceptional customer service, we continue to deliver reliable solutions that stand the test of time.

what we stand for

At Horizon, we are dedicated to protecting people, buildings, and infrastructure through expert chimney, lightning protection, height safety services and more. Our work helps safeguard those working at height, the public, and the integrity of tall structures by ensuring they remain safe, compliant, and fit for purpose. We stand for quality, integrity, and professionalism, delivering reliable inspections, maintenance, and reporting with a commitment to the highest safety standards.

By putting safety first and building trusted relationships with our clients, we help create safer environments for everyone.

“We Do The Work That Keeps People Safe When No One Is Watching”

Customer testimonials

  • Property Contracts Delivery Officer

    Horizon have been our valued “working at heights” contractor for our County Council and, through local government reorganisation, for our Unitary Authority since winning an open public procurement competitive tender in 2019. Upon natural life expiry of contract Horizon were subsequently re-awarded the contracted activity following another open public procurement competitive tender in 2025. Throughout both contracts Horizon have demonstrated their technical and managerial expertise. Horizon has proved value for money and consistently performed very well, often exceeding Key Performance Indicator targets and customers’ expectations.
    District Council

Where It Began to Where we are today

Follow Our Journey

1993

James Burns (Co-Founder) working on one of our first projects.

1996

Our work at the University of Edinburgh’s McEwan Hall showcased Horizon’s ability to deliver specialist solutions on prestigious heritage buildings, helping to preserve an important landmark for future generations.

2003

Horizon completed specialist repair works to the iconic dome canopy at St Pancras Station, demonstrating our expertise in working safely on complex, high-profile heritage structures.

2010

Founder James Burns is pictured undertaking a chimney replacement at a Scottish distillery, embodying the expertise, dedication, and safety-first approach that have defined Horizon since its inception.

2017

Horizon successfully completed a specialist liner replacement at an iconic London landmark. The technically demanding project showcased our expertise in delivering complex chimney solutions safely and efficiently in a challenging city-centre environment.