How often should you have your chimney swept?

Have your chimney or flue swept once a year, in autumn before the heating season.

Soot and creosote deposits in the flue are a major cause of chimney fires. According to Assuralia, insurers expect you, as a ‘prudent person’, to have it swept every year; neglect can have consequences. So keep the sweeping certificate.

1. Book an annual appointment before the heating season
2. Make sure the fireplace/stove is accessible
3. Have the flue swept and checked for cracks/sealing
4. Keep the sweeping certificate (often requested by the fire insurer)

No work for you: you make an appointment with a professional.

• appointment with a chimney sweep

The explanation about fire insurance concerns Belgian policies (Assuralia).

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Work safely and follow the manual. If in doubt, or if it involves gas, combustion or working at height, leave it to a qualified professional.

Source

• Assuralia (Belgische verzekeringsfederatie) — Kan de brandverzekering weigeren mij te vergoeden als ik de verplichting om jaarlijks mijn schoorsteen te vegen niet strikt naleef?

Checked on: 2026-09-24

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