Services explained

Chimney and stove services explained

A simple homeowner guide to the common chimney, stove and flue services offered by ICS members, including sweeping, CCTV inspections, stove maintenance, cowls and bird guards.

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Homeowner guide

What can an ICS member help with?

Many members offer more than chimney sweeping. This page explains common services in plain English so homeowners understand what to ask for and when a professional visit may be needed.

Chimney sweepingCleaning soot, deposits and debris from the flue. CCTV inspectionsCamera inspections to check the hidden condition of the flue. Stove maintenanceChecks and replacement of common stove wear parts. Cowls & bird guardsTerminal protection for rain, birds and some draught issues. Smoke testingA simple way to check smoke movement through the flue. Common problemsSmoke, smells, poor draw and blocked flues.
Core service

Chimney Sweeping

Chimney sweeping removes soot, tar deposits, loose debris and other material from the flue. A clear flue helps smoke and combustion gases leave the home more safely.

When might you need it?

  • Before the main burning season.
  • After regular use of a stove, open fire or solid fuel appliance.
  • If smoke is not drawing correctly.
  • When a property has not been used for a while.
Good to know: after sweeping, an ICS member will always provide a sweeping certificate for your records.
Flue condition

CCTV chimney inspections

A CCTV chimney inspection uses a specialist camera to look inside the chimney or flue. It can help identify issues that cannot be seen from the fireplace, stove or chimney pot alone.

When might you need it?

  • When buying or renovating a property.
  • Before using an old or unused chimney.
  • After a chimney fire or suspected damage.
  • When smoke, smells or poor draw keep returning.
  • Thatched properties.
Useful for diagnosis: CCTV inspections can help show cracks, blockages, poor joints, damaged liners or other visible defects.
Appliance care

Stove maintenance

Stoves have parts that wear with heat and regular use. Maintenance can help the appliance work more efficiently and can identify signs of damage before they become bigger problems.

Common checks may include

  • Door rope seals and glass seals.
  • Fire bricks, baffle plates and grate condition.
  • Air controls and visible corrosion or distortion.
  • General advice on fuel, use and ventilation.
Important: servicing requirements vary by appliance. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use a competent professional where needed.
Chimney top

Cowls and bird guards

A chimney cowl or bird guard is fitted at the top of the chimney. Different cowls are designed for different purposes, so the correct choice depends on the chimney use.

They may help with

  • Reducing the chance of birds entering the flue.
  • Helping to keep rain out.
  • Downdraught problems.
  • Overall protecting the chimney from debris.
Check first: the wrong cowl can cause problems. Ask a professional to advise what is suitable for your chimney and appliance.
Checks

Smoke testing

A smoke test is used to observe how smoke moves through the flue. It can help show whether smoke is drawing as expected after sweeping or during investigation work.

It can help identify

  • Poor or slow draw.
  • Smoke leakage into the room or nearby spaces.
  • Potential blockages or flue route concerns.
  • Issues that may require further inspection.
Safety note: smoke testing does not replace a full investigation where a serious fault is suspected.
Troubleshooting

Smoke, smells and poor draw

If smoke comes back into the room, the stove smells strongly, or the appliance is difficult to light, there may be an issue with the flue, ventilation, fuel, weather conditions or the appliance itself.

Possible causes include

  • A blocked or partially blocked flue.
  • Wet fuel or unsuitable fuel.
  • Poor ventilation or negative pressure in the home.
  • Downdraught, cold flues or appliance faults.
Do not ignore it: stop using the appliance if you are concerned about smoke or fumes entering the room, and seek professional advice.
FAQs

Service questions

No, services vary by member. Check the member profile or contact the sweep directly to confirm the service you require.

In many cases it is practical to discuss both at the same visit, especially before the burning season. The sweep can advise what is appropriate for your appliance and usage.

Not usually unless its a thatched property. CCTV inspections are often used when there is a concern, a change of appliance, a property purchase, suspected damage, repeated problems or an old flue that needs checking.

Bird nesting rules can be strict and timing matters. A professional sweep can advise, but live nests should not be disturbed.

Need help with your chimney, stove or flue?

Find an ICS member near you and ask which services they provide in your area.

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