FAQ’s

Do all chimneys need to be swept and if so, how often?

Yes. All natural, fossil fuels or wood burning appliances will create soot deposits within the chimney potentially leading to blockages or creating a fire risk. Safety and Frequency of Sweeping. It is recommended that chimneys are swept at least once a year, more often depending on the fuel types used or if used continually. Want to make a booking now?

What will happen if my chimney is not swept?

There is the risk that the chimney will become blocked which can lead to Carbon Monoxide poisoning. The chimney could also become a severe fire risk if not swept regularly. Also, a soot fall in your lounge can be most devastating!!

Do I need to have a “Lined” chimney swept?

Yes, contrary to belief, once you have had a liner installed on your appliance it is particularly important to sweep the chimney on a regular basis. Yearly minimal intervals are recommended. However, it may be necessary to sweep the flue/chimney as often as every three months depending on the fuel types when in use.

Please feel free to contact us for advice. Sweeping intervals can vary dramatically depending on the type of flue, type of appliance, whether  a boiler is fitted, and the amount of chimney draw you have.

My home insurance provider insists on my chimney being swept. Is this correct?

Yes, nowadays many leading home insurance providers require you to have your chimney swept at least annually by a professional chimney sweep who will issue a certificate of chimney sweeping upon completion. In some cases, they require the chimney to be swept more often depending on the type of property (thatch roof etc) and type of fuel used. The Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps Certificate of Chimney Sweeping will be recognised by your insurance provider.

Does chimney sweeping leave a mess?

Absolutely not. We will do our utmost to make our process as clean as possible and take every reasonable step to ensure your room is fully protected. We pride ourselves on our cleanliness and reputation. We do however advise that you assist us by further protecting any soft furnishings and carpets ahead of our arrival.

How much do you charge for chimney sweeping?

Our pricing reflects our vast experience, expertise and investment we have made over the years in the very latest and modern equipment and in our appearance, vehicles and up to date training and Continuous Professional Development (CPD). Our comprehensive Pricing and T&C’s tells you all you need to know.

What accreditations should I look for when booking a chimney sweep?

It is strongly recommended that you use a chimney sweep who belongs to a trade association or organization. Howards(Tarleton) are Master Chimney Sweep members of the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps as well as being HETAS approved and registered. Oh, and we have been doing what we do for almost 60 years. Think that pretty much says it all!!

When is the best time to have my chimney swept?

You should try to book in for a chimney sweep in early spring or through the summer months. That way we should be able to get to you within a reasonable time frame. If you leave it until autumn and winter, we are always booked well ahead, and therefore it will likely take us several weeks to get to you. Avoid the disappointment!! Want to make a booking now?

I have a bird stuck in my chimney. What should I do?

Firstly, DO NOT PANIC. We get dozens of calls each year from customers with a bird stuck in their chimney. Give us a call / email immediately, and one of our team will assist you with your plight. If for any reason we cannot be contacted, then please leave us a message. We will do our best to get back in touch as soon as possible. 01772 812714   07762 309526 or Email Us

In the meantime, if you have an open fireplace or an open style gas fire, and are worried about soot, debris or a bird coming into your room, you can seal the front of the opening with a board, box or a taped large plastic style bag as a short term measure to prevent any escape or damage.(Ensure no part of the fire is lit). If you have a sealed inset type of gas fire fitted and you can hear a bird “flapping” behind it, and you are still concerned, contact a local gas safe registered engineer for assistance. (NEVER attempt to disconnect a gas supply of remove a closed in appliance)

Birds are nesting in my chimney. Can you help?

Yes, quite simply is the answer to that. Please click on the link for all the information you will need to know about our bird nest removal and prevention services. Bird Nest in Your Chimney or give us a call. 01772 812714   07762 309526

I have a sudden infestation of flies in my lounge/bedroom. Can you help?

Yes. It is likely that you have a dead bird or vermin in your chimney, and it has started decaying. If the fireplace is open in your lounge or bedroom etc, seal off the opening with a taped bag or box so the flies cannot come into the room. (ensure there is no lit flames in the fire). If the chimney breast has a vent fitted in the wall, put some strong tape over the openings and this will help stop the problem in the short term. Get in touch with us and we can assist you further. 01772 812714  07762 309526 or Email Us

Can I burn any logs in my fire?

No. Only burn seasoned quality logs in your fire. Logs must have a moisture content of less than 20%. The fact you have asked us this question is very worrying, so please take a few moments to check out the video in the link, that way you will be  Getting it Right

I have heard on the news that they have banned wood and coal. Does this mean I can’t use my stove anymore?

No. This information has been totally misleading. Government measures have been introduced to remove the most polluting types of fuels. Bituminous coal is being phased out completely by 2023 and wood can still be used as a fuel. The solid fuel and stove industry have introduced measures meaning only the cleanest burning stoves/appliances will be available from 2022, with many stove manufacturers already selling these well ahead of that date. These are known as Ecodesign compliant. More information on the government measures can be found in the link. Clean Air Strategy 2019

Do I need to have a carbon monoxide alarm fitted?

Yes, is the simple answer to that question, Carbon Monoxide poisoning is another reason why your chimney should be swept regularly. Did you know that since 2010 it has been a legal requirement to fit a carbon monoxide alarm in the same room as a newly installed solid fuel/wood burning appliance? We also strongly recommend fitting alarms retrospective of that date.

Furthermore, private sector landlords have since 1 October 2015, been required to ensure there is a carbon monoxide alarm in any room containing a solid fuel/wood burning appliance and in continual working order.

What are you doing to protect customers especially since Covid-19?

We take your safety very seriously. Check out the stringent measures we have put in place on our website link. Covid-19 Customer Safety Information

Do you fit chimney cowls and bird guards?

Yes, we fit a range of different types of bird guards and cowls depending on the type of appliance fitted. We also fit caps to redundant chimneys. Check out the website link for detailed information on our service. Chimney Cowls and Bird Guard