2 Best Chimney Sweeps in Great Yarmouth [2026 Update]

If you use an open fire regularly, sweep it once a year. Wood burners and multi-fuel stoves need sweeping once a year if burning seasoned wood, or twice yearly if burning wet wood or coal. If you use a range cooker or Aga occasionally, once a year is usually enough. Ask your sweep to advise based on what fuel you burn and how often.

A CCTV inspection (£95 to £160) uses a camera to film inside your flue, revealing blockages, cracks, loose mortar, bird nests, or creosote buildup that a standard sweep might miss. It's especially useful if your chimney drafts poorly or you're buying a property and want to check the flue before using it.

It's technically possible but not recommended. Professional sweeps have the right rods, brushes and safety equipment to reach every part of the flue and avoid damaging it. They also know what to look for, cracks, blockages or hazards you might miss. Insurance for wood burners and stoves often requires a professional sweep.

A standard brush sweep works for routine cleaning. A power or rotary sweep (£95 to £160) uses a spinning head to shift stubborn, heavy tar and creosote buildup. Most sweeps recommend power sweeping if your flue hasn't been cleaned for years or if you've burned unseasoned wood or coal.

Yes, if you're insuring a wood burner or multi-fuel stove, your insurer will usually ask for a professional sweeping certificate as proof the flue is safe. Even for open fires, a certificate is useful proof of maintenance. Your sweep will provide one after each visit.

Between spring and late summer, nesting birds are protected by law and cannot be disturbed. If you find a nest, wait until the birds have fledged (usually by early September) before arranging removal. Outside the nesting season, bird nest removal costs £85 to £170, and fitting a bird guard or cowl (£75 to £160) prevents it happening again.