Congratulations on your new home! If it came with a fireplace, wood burner, or multi-fuel stove, you're probably already imagining cosy evenings by the fire.
But before you strike that first match, there are some important things to check. As HETAS-certified chimney sweeps, we see too many new homeowners who light up without knowing the history of their chimney—and sometimes the results aren't pretty.
Here's your complete checklist for getting your new fireplace ready safely.
1. Ask the Previous Owners for Paperwork
Before completion, ask your solicitor to request:
- The last chimney sweep certificate — This proves when it was last cleaned
- Installation certificate (if it's a stove) — Shows it was fitted to regulations
- Any chimney inspection reports — Highlights previous issues
No paperwork? That's a red flag. You'll need a professional inspection before using it.
2. Check Your Home Insurance Policy
Most UK home insurance policies require you to have your chimney swept at least once a year. If you can't prove this and there's a fire, your claim could be rejected.
What insurers want: A certificate from a qualified sweep (like HETAS or Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps). We provide one with every sweep—it's your proof.
3. Book a Camera Inspection
You can't see inside a chimney from the ground. That's why we use camera technology to check for:
- Cracks or damage to the flue liner
- Bird nests or blockages (jackdaws love chimneys!)
- Creosote buildup (highly flammable tar)
- Mortar debris that's fallen into the flue
We show you the video so you can see exactly what's going on up there.