FAQs

Below are some of our most frequently asked questions. If your query isn’t covered, feel free to get in touch.

I've just had a chimney fire. Is it safe to use my fire?

No, not until it’s been professionally surveyed. Chimney fires can reach over 1000°C, potentially damaging the chimney and allowing dangerous gases to escape. We’ve seen cases where sand has melted around chimney liners due to extreme heat. Fire gases can leak from your chimney, increasing the risk of another fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. If the Fire Brigade attended, the rapid cooling from water can cause thermal shock, further weakening the flue. Always get a chimney survey after a fire to ensure it’s safe to use.

I think my chimney or stove is too close to combustible materials. What should I do?

This is a serious fire hazard. Just because a stove or chimney has been installed for a long time doesn’t mean it’s safe. We can carry out tests to check if your installation meets safety regulations and recommend any necessary adjustments.

My fireplace or stove smokes into the room. Is this dangerous?

Yes, smoke contains harmful chemicals and should never enter your home. If you notice smoke in the room or anywhere else in the house, call us for an inspection. Causes can include a chimney that’s too short, extractor fans pulling air from the room, or too many bends in the flue. We can diagnose the issue and provide a solution.

How long does a chimney sweep take?

For a standard two-story open fireplace and flue, the job is usually completed within an hour.

What should I do before the sweep arrives?

Don’t light a fire for at least 24 hours before the sweep.
Remove any objects from around the fireplace.
Clear out any ash or waste from your stove or fire.

What happens during a chimney sweep?

The sweep will inspect the chimney stack, pot, and flaunching.
The fireplace or stove will be sealed with a special sheet or foam inserts to prevent soot from escaping.
The flue will be swept using the correct cleaning system for your chimney type—incorrect brushes or rods can cause damage.
Soot and creosote will be vacuumed using an industrial HEPA-filtered vacuum to keep dust to a minimum.
A certificate will be issued, and if needed, further testing will be recommended.

We also offer stove servicing—click here for more details.

How often should I have my chimney cleaned?

Type of Fire	Cleaning Frequency
Wood-burning fires	Quarterly when in use
Smokeless coal fires	Once a year
Coal fires	Twice a year
Oil fires	Once a year
Gas fires	Once a year (if cleaning is applicable)

How can The Soot Doctor help with insurance claims after a chimney fire?

Dealing with insurance after a chimney fire can be a bother, but we’re here to sort it. At The Soot Doctor, we simplify things by providing detailed reports, expert assessments, and all the paperwork needed for your claim. We work with all insurers to ensure a smooth and quick process from start to finish.

What is chimney relining and why's it important?

Chimney relining means replacing or upgrading the inner part of your chimney to keep it safe and working well. If your chimney’s cracked or old, relining stops dangerous issues like fires or leaks. We offer reliable chimney relining for homes and businesses to ensure your heating system meets safety standards.

How do you ensure the safety of commercial chimneys and stoves?

For businesses like restaurants and hotels, we provide expert commercial chimney services. From cleaning and inspections to relining and stove installations, we ensure your systems are safe, efficient, and comply with regulations. Let us handle your chimney so you can focus on running your business safely.

Can you install stoves and fireplaces in homes and businesses?

Yes, we install stoves and fireplaces for homes and businesses. Whether you’re adding a cosy stove to your living room or upgrading heating in your business, we can help. We specialise in safe and efficient stove installations for both residential and commercial properties.

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