How often does a chimney need sweeping?

Once a year for regular use, twice if you burn wood heavily or use unseasoned timber. Smokeless fuel is cleaner but still needs an annual sweep.

Does my insurance really require it?

Most Irish policies expect an annual sweep for solid fuel, and a claim after a chimney fire is where it gets tested. Keep the certificate — it is the document that proves it was done.

It should not. The fireplace is sheeted and the sweep works with a vacuum running. If someone arrives without sheets and a vacuum, that is a bad sign.

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Chimney Sweeping in Ireland

A chimney sweep is one of the few jobs that is genuinely about safety rather than appearance. Soot and creosote build up in the flue, and creosote is what catches fire. Most Irish home insurance policies expect an annual sweep for a solid-fuel appliance, and the certificate the sweep issues is what a claim turns on.

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What’s included

Open fires, stoves and solid-fuel ranges
Full flue sweep with sheeted, vacuum-controlled work
Smoke draw test after sweeping
Cowl, flashing and flaunching check from the ground
Nest and blockage removal
Certificate of sweeping for insurance

Why request chimney sweeping through Connect Cleaner

Removes creosote, which is the actual fire risk
Restores draw, so the stove burns properly and uses less fuel
The certificate is what your insurer asks for
Blockages found before carbon monoxide becomes a problem

Available across all 26 counties

We connect you with local chimney sweeping providers in every county in Ireland.

Leinster

Munster

Connacht

Ulster

Frequently asked questions

How often does a chimney need sweeping?: Once a year for regular use, twice if you burn wood heavily or use unseasoned timber. Smokeless fuel is cleaner but still needs an annual sweep.
Does my insurance really require it?: Most Irish policies expect an annual sweep for solid fuel, and a claim after a chimney fire is where it gets tested. Keep the certificate — it is the document that proves it was done.
Will it make a mess?: It should not. The fireplace is sheeted and the sweep works with a vacuum running. If someone arrives without sheets and a vacuum, that is a bad sign.