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Reduce the Risk of Chimney Fires |
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Dear Resident
While there may still be warm days ahead, now is a good time to prepare your chimney before colder weather sets in. Chimney Fire Safety Week 2026 is a useful reminder to help protect your home by making sure your chimney is clean, safe and ready to use.
Why do chimney fires happen? Chimney fires are usually caused by heat or flames from a fire igniting built-up soot or creosote inside the flue. These deposits are highly flammable and can cause serious damage if not removed.
Why chimney sweeping is essential Regular sweeping removes soot, creosote, bird nests and other blockages that can catch fire or restrict airflow. It also helps appliances work safely and efficiently and reduces the risk of fumes 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 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 Make sure 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 (by a Gas Safe registered engineer)
Homeowners and renters: If you use a chimney or flue, make sure it is properly maintained. Your home insurance may set out how often it should be swept, especially for thatched or older properties.
Landlords: You have a legal duty to maintain heating systems, including chimneys and flues, for your tenants.
After a chimney fire If a chimney fire does happen, make sure to have it inspected by a certified professional before using it again as damage may not always be visible.
Find a qualified chimney sweep National Association of Chimney Sweeps: www.nacs.org.uk
Find more home fire safety advice at Humberside Fire and Rescue Service: https://humbersidefire.gov.uk/your-safety/safety-in-the-home-advice
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