The best time of year to book a chimney sweep in Norfolk

When should you book your sweep?

Most people think about their chimney in October, right when the first cold evening arrives and everyone else has the same idea. It is the busiest time of year for every sweep in Norfolk, and waits can stretch to several weeks.

The best time to book is actually spring and summer, between April and August.

Why spring and summer work best

• Shorter waits. Diaries are quieter, so you can usually pick the day and time that suits you rather than taking what is left.
• Your fire is ready for autumn. Any problems we find, a damaged cowl, a bird nest, a flue that needs repair, can be fixed well before you need the fire.
• Nests are gone or not yet built. Jackdaws nest in chimneys through spring, so a late summer sweep clears the season's debris before lighting season.
• Better drying conditions. If your flue needs any remedial work, summer weather makes it far easier to carry out.

How often should a chimney be swept?

It depends on what you burn:

• Wood burners and multi fuel stoves: at least once a year, twice if the stove is your main source of heat.
• Open fires burning seasoned wood: at least once a year.
• Coal and smokeless fuels: at least once a year.
• Thatched properties: most insurers ask for twice yearly sweeps, check your policy.

Your insurance may also require a valid sweeping certificate. Every sweep we do comes with a certificate on the day, so your paperwork is always in order.

Already autumn?

Do not worry if you have left it late. We always do our best to fit people in through the busy season, and with two Guild registered sweeps on the team we have more capacity than most. If we are on a job when you call, leave a message and we will get back to you as soon as we can.

Call Jamie on 07596 017501 or Steve on 07419 981638 to book your sweep, or get in touch here.

Holiday lets and second homes

If you run a holiday let, the quiet months between changeovers are the ideal window for a sweep. We can work around your bookings and provide certificates for your records and your insurer. Read more about our domestic sweeping service.