Chimney Sweeps
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Overview
Chimney sweeping
This page covers chimney sweeping: clearing soot, creosote and blockages such as birds' nests from the chimneys and flues of open fires, wood burners, stoves and range cookers.
Worth knowing
Worth checking before work starts
A few rules and checks that apply to this kind of work.
Ask to see ID
Chimney sweeps registered with HETAS can show an identity card. HETAS advises always asking to see a sweep's ID before any work starts.
Smoke control areas
In a smoke control area, you cannot release smoke from a chimney, and you can only burn wood in an exempt appliance. Your council can tell you whether you live in one.
Rented homes
If you let a home in England, any room used as living space that has a fixed appliance burning fuel, such as an open fire or stove, must have a carbon monoxide alarm. Gas cookers are excluded.
Questions
Chimney sweeping questions
How often should a chimney be swept?
HETAS advises at least twice a year when burning wood or house coal, and at least once a year when burning smokeless fuels.
What time of year should a chimney be swept?
Just before the heating season starts, and after a stove has not been used for a long time, HETAS advises. If it is swept twice a year, the second sweep should come after the peak of the heating season.
Do chimneys for gas or oil appliances need sweeping?
Yes, says the National Association of Chimney Sweeps. Gas and oil don't normally leave soot, but sweeping can find or fix other problems. It suggests once a year for each.
How much does a chimney sweep cost?
It depends on the fire or stove, how long since the chimney was last swept, how easy it is to reach, and whether you want a camera inspection or a certificate. Ask each sweep what is included, so the quotes compare.
How do I get ready for a chimney sweep?
Let the fire or stove go out and cool the day before, and clear the hearth and the space in front of it. Move ornaments and anything you would rather keep away from dust.
Ready to describe your job?
Four short steps: the job, when you'd like it done, a description and your details.