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Good practice

Chimneys and wood burners

Sweep at least once a year (twice when burning wood), service the stove and fit a CO alarm.

Applies to: Properties with a wood burner, multi-fuel stove or open fire.

How oftenHETAS: twice a year when burning wood, at least once a year for smokeless fuel
Who can do itA HETAS approved sweep, or a sweep registered with a recognised sweeping body
Typical costAbout £60 to £100 per sweep
If it's missedNo specific fine, but a chimney fire with no sweep record can void insurance

What the rules say

HETAS publishes specific advice for holiday properties: sweep regularly, service the appliance before the season, fit a CO alarm in the room and leave clear instructions for guests.

What to do

  1. Sweep before the season starts and again mid-season if it is used a lot.
  2. Keep the sweep's certificate and upload it here.
  3. Leave simple lighting and safety instructions, and only provide dry, approved fuel.

Tips from the field

  • Tell your insurer you have a stove. Many policies ask for sweep certificates.

Official sources

Costs are typical 2025/26 prices, not official figures. This is general information, not legal advice. Last checked 26 Sept 2026.

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