Now that the nights are drawing in, thoughts will be turning to cosy nights in. And one of the things that is often overlooked by property owners and landlords, whether they have just bought a new property or as part of their routine maintenance, is the chimney.
The National Association of Chimney Sweeps (don’t you just love their logo!) has published guidance on how frequently chimneys should be swept. Many property owners think they just need to get a sweep in if they burn coal in the fireplace, or if they are going to convert from solid fuel burning to gas. But in fact the NACS has these guidelines:
- Smokeless fuel: At least once a year
- Wood and bituminous coal: Quarterly when in use
- Oil and gas: Once a year
Regular sweeping will clear out soot, bird nests, cobwebs, dust build up and any other blockages. It also removes creosote, which will help to prevent chimney fires. Sweeping may also increase the efficiency of some appliances.
Landlords have a legal responsibility to ensure the safety, working and servicing of all heating and hot water installations. This will include open fires, coal and wood burning stoves, the flues and ventilation. So if you are a landlord renting a property with an open fireplace or other fuel burning stove, you should also have a regular maintenance plan to ensure that the ventilation is checked and the chimney is swept and safe. The price varies but on average is approximately £50.00 per sweep for that peace of mind. Get in quick before the cold weather hits and everyone gets their fires roaring.
And don’t forget the best bit about having the chimney swept. The sweep will show you the brush sticking out of the top of the chimney, to prove that the flue has been swept all the way through. Great photo opp …
Pearce & Sons is shown in the photo the family have been sweeping chimneys for over 300 years. Check out their massive history. They service the South East of London. You can find a sweep near you on the NCAS website. Best get this booked in now, before the busy period.