3 Best Chimney Sweeps in Christchurch [2026 Update]

Open fires and wood burners should be swept once a year, ideally before the heating season starts. Gas fires need less frequent sweeping, sometimes just once every two years, depending on use. Ask your sweep to advise based on your appliance and how often you use it.

A CCTV inspection lets the sweep see inside your flue on a monitor, spotting blockages, bird nests, cracks, or missing mortar. It's particularly useful if you have a blockage you cannot clear by sweeping, or if you're buying a property and want to check the chimney's condition before use.

Poor draw can be caused by a blockage, a failed chimney pot, a bird nest, or an undersized flue. A sweep can clear any blockage, and a smoke test (£40 to £70) will help identify the cause. Your sweep may recommend a cowl or guard to stop debris entering in future.

You can attempt basic sweeping with rods and brushes, but professional sweeps have specialist equipment (power sweepers, CCTV cameras) and know how to work safely at height. They also provide a certificate of sweeping for insurance purposes. It's usually safer and faster to hire a professional.

A flexible flue liner is a stainless steel or aluminium tube that runs down inside your chimney, creating a smooth, insulated passage for smoke. You might need one if your chimney is damaged, too wide for your appliance, or if you're changing from an open fire to a wood burner or stove.

Yes, most buildings insurance policies require proof of a professional sweep. The sweep issues a certificate of sweeping when the job is done, which you should keep with your insurance paperwork. This protects you if a chimney fire occurs.