Each year hundreds of homes are damaged or completely destroyed by poorly maintained chimneys.
Blockages inside the chimney can allow carbon monoxide into your home through cracked masonry
or worn mortar joints in the chimney walls.
There are many factors that can affect the efficiency and stability of your chimney, some of
these problems can occur naturally over time, such as weathering or storm damage, the most common problems
however are caused by poor maintenance or the failure of unqualified sweeps or contractors to identify potential
dangers.
Regular servicing and sweeping by a suitably qualified engineer is essential as he will identify
these dangers and therefore minimise any risk to you and your family.
Please ensure sure your chimney is checked for safety and swept at least twice a year.
A chimney fire can cause a huge amount of damage as well as allowing potentially fatal fumes
to enter the building, it could be responsible for the total destruction of your home and possessions. In addition
to this there is a very real danger to any occupants within the property or adjacent property from the risk
of fire or inhalation of fumes.
A small expense now for sweeping and maintenance is trivial when compared to your family and your home's safety.
You should only use a professional chimney sweep who will identify and advise you of any potential
dangers in addition to this he will give you vital information on how to use your appliance most efficiently therefore minimising
costs and reducing environmental impact .
For example he will give you details on the correct fuels, air vents
and spares for you particular appliance, he will be aware of the current building regulations and therefore
he will be able to point out any problems regarding these constantly updated and complicated regulations.
All heating systems, solid fuel, oil or gas should be serviced annually and
a certificate of compliance must be issued by a qualified HETAS or CORGI enginneer.
