Chimney sweeping rules in France: Can you do this yourself - and how often is required by law?

Reader Question: Our second home here has a chimney – do we have to hire someone to sweep it for us or can we just do it ourselves as it is only small? Is it expensive to hire someone?

Rules on keeping chimneys clean are strict in France in a bid to reduce fires. 

National rules require at least one professional sweep each year, and property owners must have a certificate from a qualified chimney sweep (Certificat de ramonage) to prove this. 

This rule applies regardless of chimney size, though frequency can vary depending on fuel type and local regulations.

The sweep must be performed by a qualified professional registered as a chimney sweep or relevant artisan.

It usually costs €50 to €100 to hire a professional, although it may cost more for larger chimneys.

It is important to note that many departments require chimneys to be swept twice per year, particularly for wood stoves – as do certain insurance companies. 

You can check the rules in your department with your local mairie.

With regard to insurance companies, you may not be covered for related damage if you cannot prove you swept your chimney the correct number of times (with the certificates to prove it). 

It is best to read your home insurance policy, or contact your insurer, to see specific rules. 

In rented properties, it is the responsibility of the tenant to organise the sweeping (or the landlord will do so and charge the tenant for the service). This should be mentioned in the rental contract. 

Regular maintenance is essential

Hiring a professional is mandatory as they have the tools to reach parts of your chimney you cannot, and – providing they have the right qualifications – have undergone the necessary training to spot issues a layperson may miss. 

This does not mean, however, that you should not keep up with regular maintenance of your chimney if you wish. 

This includes keeping the grate and metalwork of a closed fireplace clean, and the area around an open fireplace tidy, and checking equipment is up to date. 

This may help with reducing overall maintenance costs, as well as further reduce the risk of potential fires.