How much does a chimney sweep cost?

Chimney sweep quick cost guide

Here’s your full guide on chimney sweeping costs. From the different services available and their prices, to how to hire the right chimney sweep in your local area and get the right quote for you.

In this cost guide we will talk about:

2. Average cost of chimney sweeps
3. Different chimney sweep services and prices
4. How do I know when to hire a chimney sweep?
5. Hidden chimney sweep costs to know about
6. Find chimney sweeps near you on MyBuilder today
7. FAQ: Common questions about chimney sweep costs

Average cost of chimney sweeps

Chimney sweeps perform a variety of tasks designed to keep your chimney clean and working at its best. They remove soot and debris accumulation, inspect for blockages and structural issues, and ensure proper ventilation.

On average, a standard chimney sweep costs between £60 and £120.

Take a look at the average costs of chimney sweeps for different chimney types:

Chimney Type	Estimated Cost
Open fire chimney	£50 – £100
Wood-burning stove (lined)	£60 – £120
Wood-burning stove (unlined)	£70 – £150
Inglenook fireplace	£90 – £110+
Range cooker (e.g. Aga, Rayburn)	£65 – £100

Different chimney sweep services and prices

Professional chimney sweep services go beyond simply removing soot and debris; they contribute to maintaining the longevity and functionality of your chimney system.

Here’s the different chimney sweep services available and their prices:

• Inspection: A thorough inspection to identify potential issues such as cracks or blockages, usually costing around £50 to £150 per chimney, depending on access and the level of inspection needed. ​

• Cleaning: Removal of soot, creosote build-up, and other debris, typically priced between £60 and £120 for a standard domestic sweep. This not only improves the efficiency of your fireplace but also reduces the risk of chimney fires.

• Minor repairs: Some chimney sweeps offer minor repairs as part of their service, with small fixes often starting from £100 to £300, depending on the issue. Visit our price guide for all chimney repair costs here. ​

• Smoke test: Ensures that the smoke is properly venting through the chimney, usually costing around £50 to £100, and sometimes included as part of a sweep or inspection package.

MyBuilder Tip: If you are looking for a few different services, make sure your chimney sweep clearly outlines them in a quote for you. Find chimney sweeps near you and request quotes on MyBuilder today.

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How do I know when to hire a chimney sweep?

It is generally recommended to have your chimney swept at least once a year.

However, factors such as usage and the type of fuel burned can necessitate more frequent cleaning.

This is when you should hire a chimney sweep:

• Annual maintenance check: Sweep annually to prevent soot and creosote build-up and reduce fire risk.
• Frequent use through winter months: Increase cleaning frequency during heavy winter use to keep flues clear.
• Use of wood-burning stoves: Sweep before and during the heating season if using a wood-burning stove.
• New property acquisition: Always sweep when moving into a new home with a fireplace to ensure safety.
• Following major repairs or changes: Sweep after major chimney or fireplace repairs to remove debris and check installation.

For more information on when a chimney should be swept read this article.

Hidden chimney sweep costs to know about

When planning for chimney sweeping, it's important to be aware of potential hidden fees that can impact your budget. These additional costs may arise unexpectedly and can vary based on specific conditions and needed services.

Common hidden fees include:

Bird nest removal: This service can add to your bill if nests are found, with initial bird nest removal usually costing £85 to £135.

Additional time charges: If the job exceeds standard timeframes, expect a cost of £25 to £40 for every extra 30 minutes.

CCTV inspection: While a sweep might include a CCTV check for £30 to £50, opting for a standalone inspection can elevate this to £75.

Chimney cowl installation: Difficult access may require using a tower or scaffolding instead of a ladder, which can significantly increase the cost. For all chimney cowl costs, visit our price guide.

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Find chimney sweeps near you on MyBuilder today

It only takes a couple of minutes to post your job on MyBuilder today. Then, you can get in touch with different chimney specialists in your area who can offer their advice and services. MyBuilder is the easy and quick way to get in touch with verified chimney professionals near you!

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FAQ: Common questions about chimney sweep costs

What tools do chimney sweeps use for chimney sweeping?

Chimney sweeps typically use a variety of tools, including chimney brushes of various sizes, rods, vacuums (to contain the soot and debris), tarps (to protect the surrounding area), and cameras for inspection purposes.

Which season is best suited for chimney sweeping and cleaning?

While you can get your chimney cleaned any time of the year, many homeowners opt for late summer or early autumn. This ensures the chimney is clean and safe for winter fires.

Can I use my fireplace immediately after a sweep?

Yes, once the cleaning process is complete and the chimney sweep has ensured there are no blockages or issues, you can use your fireplace without problems.

Do I need a professional chimney sweep, or can I do it myself?

Basic cleaning tools are available for DIY use, but having your chimney swept by a qualified professional is strongly recommended for safety and insurance reasons.

Professionals are trained to spot hidden issues such as cracks, dangerous blockages, or poor ventilation that might be missed in a do it yourself job, helping to reduce the risk of things like chimney fires.