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Yes. Hiring a chimney sweep is very often money well spent. Here are some reasons why:

• Chimney sweeps are skilled in safe and efficient sweeping
• Hiring a sweeping service saves you time, hassle and mess
• The cost of a chimney sweep is affordable for many
• They have the tools to do the job
• They'll clean up any mess after they've finished

A dirty chimney can put you and your home at risk.

When you burn wood, soot and creosote (a flammable substance) can build-up, blocking your chimney and letting toxic gases escape your home.

Finding someone to sweep your chimney keeps it clean and free from safety hazards.

Yes, you can sweep a chimney yourself, but it's generally better to hire a chimney sweep service. Chimney sweeping is time-consuming and extremely messy, especially without the right equipment and experience.

When sweeping your chimney, always cover the room with protective sheets before you start. If not, you can ruin your carpet or furniture.

Hiring can save you time and mess, and you’ll know the job has been done correctly.

We can help you find a tradesperson. Use our online search, or request a quote to find chimney sweeps operating in NR18.

A sweep should take less than an hour for chimneys cleaned less than a year ago.

If your chimney was last cleaned more than two years ago, it might take two to three hours due to extra prep work and cleaning.

A DIY sweep can take two to eight hours to thoroughly clean the buildup and clear blockages.

Get help finding a chimney sweep here.

Once a year is generally right to keep your chimney in good working order and to avoid unnecessary health and fire risks.

But, you may need additional chimney sweeps depending on:

• How much you burn
• Condition of your chimney
• Type and size of fireplace
• Type of fuel you burn

The National Association of Chimney Sweeps (NACS) recommends these timeframes for getting your chimney swept;

• Smokeless fuel – at least once a year
• Wood burning fires and bituminous coal – quarterly, when in use
• Gas and oil-burning appliance chimneys – once a year

Preparing your chimney for winter

The best time to get your chimney swept is in the summer or early Autumn, before the start of the heating season.

Want to get your chimney prepared for winter? Check out our top chimney sweeping tips.

You can also chat with a chimney sweep working in NR18 for advice and guidance on how best to care for your chimney.

Finding a chimney sweep with the right qualifications can ensure your chimney is efficient and free from fire hazards.

Here's our top tips for hiring a qualified chimney sweep in NR18:

Search Checkatrade

Search a trade directory, like Checkatrade; it's a quick way to find checked chimney sweeps.

All our Checkatrade members must pass up to 12 checks and adhere to the Checkatrade standard.

We also check their reviews - so you can trust the information you see.

Check the national trade associations

Look for members of reputable organisations, like the National Association of Chimney Sweeps (NACS) or the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps.

Members of these organisations are trained and certified to meet strict industry standards, meaning their work should be of high quality and compliant with safety regulations.

Check reviews

Always look for reviews online.

It's a simple and fast way to see what others think of chimney sweeps' services in your local area.

Ask for recommendations

Ask your friends, family and neighbours for recommendations.

If you know anyone with a log burner or an open fire, they will likely have used a chimney sweep before.

Don’t forget to cross-check your recommendations with our homeowner reviews.

Chimney sweeps in NR18 will usually check for:

• Soot and creosote buildup
• Blockages from birds' nests, debris or fallen masonry
• Cracks, loose bricks, drafts, or deterioration in the flue liner
• Smoke and gas exiting through the chimney
• An intact cap and crown to prevent weather damage or animals entering
• Connections linked to stoves or fireplaces are free from unsafe leaks or damage

Chimney sweeps use tools like brushes, vacuums, and cameras to inspect and clean your chimney.

A chimney sweep certificate is an official document given to a homeowner or landlord after a sweep or unblocking is completed.

It confirms that a chimney has been professionally cleaned and inspected and is safe to use.

You may need a chimney sweep certificate when selling or renting a property or for insurance purposes.

Read our guide to chimney sweeping for more details.

Look out for these signs that your chimney needs a good clean:

• Smoke entering the room
• Visible soot deposits around the fireplace or flue
• Fires that struggle to stay lit or produce less heat than usual
• A strong sooty or smoky smell
• Sounds or signs of nesting in the chimney

Regular inspection helps prevent these issues and ensures your chimney is safe.

No, people are not legally required to have their chimneys swept in the UK.

But that doesn't mean it's not a good idea. We recommend annual chimney inspections to keep it fully functioning and free from hazards.

You may also need to get your chimney swept to comply with home insurance policies, house sales, rental agreements, or appliance warranties.