The Thatch Advice Centre has always valued the work of the Chimney Sweeps. We understand how essential they are to the fire safety of thatched properties.
Thatch Fire Statistics
Over the last few years, following a lot of work on causes, risks and risk reduction; thatch roof fire numbers had been reducing. Suddenly, at the beginning of 2025, there was a spate of fires. We have assisted Historic England in collating these numbers and the rise was concerning. Detail on the causes are not always available but if solid fuel burning is involved, working together with Sweeps is essential in promoting best practice.
Time to ask for your help again to reinforce the importance of thatch fire safety measures and how chimney sweeps can reduce the chance of fire.
Insurance companies are more understanding, requiring regular sweeps, checks and maintenance. Sweeps visit thatched properties far more often than thatchers, so have the perfect opportunity for spreading fire safety messages.
Chimney Sweeps Help
Chimney Sweeps’ help can be broken into 4 main areas: –
- Sweeping
- Inspecting
- Woodburner Maintenance
- Education
Regular Sweeping, inspecting liners and chimney integrity, maintaining woodburners and providing certificates are all part of your excellent work. These satisfy insurance requirements and reduce the fire risks.
Chimney Sweeps visits to thatched properties are the best opportunity for sharing knowledge and enhancing it with our specialist information.
Share our Thatch Fire Safety Leaflet (free download from website). This includes thatch fire safety in all areas, not just chimneys, and will add value to your service.
Introduce your clients to our free bi-annual newsletter on “All Things Thatch” from information on Listed properties, insurance to buying and selling there is someone for everyone.
How we can Help the Sweeps
- Advertise your service on our bespoke Thatch Directory. We are always happy for experienced sweeps to offer their services. Contact us, mentioning this article, and we’ll send you a code for an additional year’s free advertising. New Associates are mentioned on our social media and in our Newsletter which has nearly 6,000 subscribers.
- Join us on our social media Test it Tuesdays – send a picture of you testing a smoke or CO alarm (branded clothing a bonus) we have great organic reach. It’s free advertising and helps spread an important message.
- Share our chimney/fire related social media posts and be part of our growing communities. Facebook, Instagram and X.
- Tag us in your relevant posts e.g. if you have recently attended a thatched property.
Working Together
Next time you visit a thatched property, take a moment to remember the vital role you play in safeguarding it. Often this can be an irreplaceable heritage building. By sweeping and inspecting, maintaining and educating you give homeowners peace of mind and reduce their risk.
We are always happy to support you. If you have a query or need assistance, please get in touch. Working together is our motto.
