Blockages

A blocked chimney or bird nest is a sweep’s job, not DIY

Updated 7 September 2026

Jackdaws favour unused pots. A nest or other blockage stops the draw. Smoke into the room or debris in the fireplace are common signs. Do not light the stove to “clear” it. Do not shove DIY rods or a vacuum hose up from the hearth. Hire a registered sweep with nest tools and, where needed, a camera.

Active nests are protected

Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 it is an offence to take, damage or destroy a wild bird’s nest while it is in use or being built, or to take eggs. See GOV.UK wild birds guidance. A competent sweep who finds an active nest should refuse to pull it. The practical window is usually late autumn through winter, plus a spring check that may only confirm “wait until fledged”.

What the sweep does

• Inspect from pot and hearth (often with a camera).
• Remove an inactive nest with nest tools and HEPA vacuuming (HETAS: how a chimney is swept).
• Sweep, smoke-test, and issue a named certificate.
• Fit or recommend an open-mesh bird-guard cowl afterwards.

Where legal, nest removal often adds £100–£200. Ask when you book. Base prices: cost. Book outside silly season if you can. Intervals: how often. Landlords: landlord guide.

Ask before you book

1. On a live register today (HETAS, NACS, Guild, APICS or Sweep Safe)?
2. Nest/blockage work with camera, and will you refuse an active nest?
3. Will you issue that body’s certificate for this address?
4. Can you fit an open-mesh bird guard?

Search the seed listings, then confirm live: HETAS · Guild · NACS · APICS · Sweep Safe.