What do I need to do in preparation for the appointment?
Please consider the following, these must be carried out before your sweep arrives:
- Do not light the fire or appliance the night before your appointment. Heat and hot embers will prevent your sweep from carrying out his work but you will still be charged for the appointment.
- Ash is not taken away by your sweep. Unless you are confident that your fire or appliance can be swept without the ash being removed please remove all ash and embers before hand.
- Create at least a 2 metre square space in front of the fireplace or wood burning stove. including furniture, ornaments on the hearth and any secured fire protectors. Ornaments on the mantelpiece and rugs can remain in place. We don’t want you to injure yourself so if you need help moving heavy furniture on the day, your sweep can assist.
- Make sure there is at least one easily accessible power socket in the room.
- Provide parking on your drive or parking vouchers/permits where necessary.
How much does a chimney sweep cost?
For all prices and services see our Prices & Services page.
How long does it take?
Ideally you should allow 45 minutes from start to finish for your chimney to be swept. Often it will take no more than half an hour.
How often should I have my chimney swept?
As a general rule; once a year. Depending on the type of fuel you use and how often you use your fireplace or wood burner, it could be more often. See the Chimney Sweeping page for more information.
Will there be a lot of mess?
Does a wood burner with a chimney liner need to be swept?
Yes, anything that burns wood or solid fuels will need sweeping at least once a year.
Does an oil/gas flue need to be swept?
Yes. Although the deposits left from these types of fires are different, they still should be swept annually to keep them clean, clear and safe.
How can I stop birds coming down my chimney?
The most effective way would be to install a bird guard to your chimney pot. Bennett’s Chimney Sweep can do that for you! See our bird guard and chimney cowl page for more information.
