5 Best Chimney Sweeps in Eastbourne: Local Pros Compared

Open fires need sweeping once a year, ideally before you light the fire in autumn. Wood burners and multi-fuel stoves typically require sweeping once a year as well, though heavy users might sweep twice. Oil and gas appliances usually need sweeping annually too. Your sweep can advise based on how much you use your appliance and what buildup they find.

A basic inspection checks your chimney for blockages, creosote or tar buildup, and obvious damage. A CCTV inspection (£100 to £170) uses a camera to examine the flue in detail, spotting cracks or structural problems that aren't visible from outside. This is useful if you're buying a property or suspect hidden damage.

The sweeps listed here all have websites or phone numbers, so contact them directly about emergency availability. Most sweeps try to fit urgent calls in quickly if a flue is blocked or you smell smoke, but availability varies. Booking in advance is always more reliable than hoping for a same-day slot.

Bird nests in active chimneys must be removed, but timing matters: nests with young birds are protected by law during the breeding season (roughly March to August). Your sweep will advise whether removal is safe now or should wait. Removal costs £90 to £180, and most sweeps can fit a bird guard (£80 to £170) to prevent it happening again.

Yes. If you have two flues in your home, sweeping the second one on the same visit costs £35 to £55, much less than a separate call-out. Mention both appliances when you book so the sweep brings any tools needed.

Stop using the appliance and call a sweep right away. A blocked chimney forces smoke back into your home, creating a safety hazard and a fire risk. A standard sweep removes most blockages; if structural damage is found, the sweep will discuss repair options like flexible liner installation (£1,010 to £2,465).