Chimney Fire Safety Week 2025

While there may still be warm days ahead, now is the ideal time to start preparing your chimney before colder weather sets in. Chimney Fire Safety Week 2025 serves as a timely reminder to protect your home by making sure your chimney is clean, safe and ready for use. 

Why do chimney fires happen? 

 Chimney fires are usually caused by high temperatures or flames from a hot fire igniting built-up soot or creosote inside the flue. These deposits are highly flammable and can lead to serious damage if left unchecked. 

Why chimney sweeping is essential ?

Regular sweeping removes soot, creosote, bird nests, cobwebs and other blockages that can obstruct airflow or catch fire. It also helps maintain appliance efficiency and prevents dangerous fumes from entering your home. 

What you should do:

• Have your chimney swept regularly by a certified professional
• Clear bird nests and overgrown plants around the chimney externally
• Keep chimneys and flues well-maintained and inspected
• Use a fire guard with open fires
• Fully extinguish fires before leaving the house or going to bed
• Only burn good quality fuel
• Ensure vents and air bricks are not blocked

How often should you sweep your chimney? 

This depends on the type of fuel you use:

• Smokeless fuels: at least once a year
• Bituminous coal: at least twice a year
• Wood: quarterly when in use
• Oil: once a year
• Gas: once a year (only by a Gas Safe registered engineer)  

Homeowners and renters: 
If you use a chimney or flue, it’s your responsibility to make sure it is properly maintained. Your home insurance may specify required sweeping frequency, especially for thatched or heritage properties. 

Landlords: 
You have a legal duty to maintain room heaters and water heating systems, including chimneys and flues, for your tenants. 

After a chimney fire 
If a chimney fire occurs, have a certified sweep inspect the chimney before using it again. Structural damage or flue instability may not be immediately visible. 

Find a qualified chimney sweep 

Search the following trusted organisations for a certified local professional: 

National Association of Chimney Sweeps: www.nacs.org.uk 

HETAS (Heating Equipment Testing and Approval Scheme): www.hetas.co.uk