The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 (LTA) states that where the landlord has granted a lease of less than seven years, or a periodic tenancy, the landlord will be responsible:
(a) to keep in repair the structure and exterior of the dwelling, including drains, gutters and external pipes,
(b) to keep in repair and proper working order the installations in the dwelling for the supply of water, gas, electricity and for sanitation (including basins, sinks, baths and sanitary conveniences) but not other fixtures, fittings and appliances for making use of the supply of water, gas or electricity, and
(c) to keep in repair and proper working order the installation in the dwelling for space heating and heating water. (Section 11, LTA 1985)
These provisions apply to leases entered into on or after 30 October 1985:
It is the responsibility of the Landlord to ensure chimneys and appliances are regularly swept and serviced.
Fire Safety Information for Landlords, Letting Agencies & Management Companies.
Holiday Let Owners & Holiday Property Companies
Chimney Sweeping in the 21st Century
With a growing number of holiday makers and long term tenants selecting properties with open fires, wood burners and multi-fuel stoves there is increasing pressure on landlords and letting agents to adhere to safety standards and regulations. Also in the case of a chimney fire, insurance companies will only recognise certain certificates to say that the chimney has been properly swept – so although anyone can buy a set of rods and a vacuum cleaner it is advised against!
BE AWARE…….things you need to know…… Carbon monoxide Whilst we are made very aware or the importance of installing smoke alarms in our properties in case of fire, a carbon monoxide leak is as harmful and far more deadly as it is invisible and has no smell. Symptoms can be headaches, nausea and a general feeling of being unwell over a period of time – it can be lethal. Carbon monoxide alarms should be placed in any room containing a solid fuel appliance or fire.
Burning the correct fuel is essential. Burning unseasoned/wet wood causes creosote to build up in the chimney or flue – this is highly flammable and can cause a chimney fire. Chimney fires can burn at over 1000 degrees centigrade which can cause massive damage. Creosote can be very difficult to remove from a chimney or liner and once it is no longer possible to remove it by sweeping, it can be very costly to rectify. In severe cases the chimney may need re-lining completely.
Avoid unseasoned or wet wood! Avoid treated wood & pallets! Avoid house coal!
The Master Sweep offers extremely efficient, super clean, knowledgeable Chimney Services. As the Regional Officer for the South West with the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps, Iain is helping to set the highest standards in the industry with continued training and expertise.
Chimney & flues require sweeping and checking regularly to be in good order and working at their most efficient. For example an Aga or Rayburn flue collects dust and dirt over time causing the draw to be ineffective and costing the owner more in oil, gas or solid fuel. This is easily rectified with a good clean sweep!
We can offer you peace of mind that your tenants or holiday makers are properly looked after with a safe, efficient local service.
You can rely on a professional, super clean, quick service. With Iain’s extensive training he is able to pick up on technical details that may possibly otherwise go unnoticed. Ensuring safety is a high priority! You or your agent will receive a reminder call or email as to the due service. You can meet with Iain at the property or arrangement of a key can be made. You can make easy direct bank transfer payments or set up a standing order. You will receive a call or email with regard to discussing any servicing that might need addressing and the costs following the visit.
NB. Please ensure that the fire has not been used the night before as it will be too hot to carry out the service and a call out charge will have to be made.
CHIMNEY/FLUE Standard Sweep of a Chimney/Flue with Visual Inspection, Smoke Draw Test, Insurance Recognised Certificate. Advice on key Dos & Don’ts.
WOOD/MULTIFUEL STOVE Standard Sweep with Visual Inspection, Smoke Draw Test, Insurance Recognised Certificate & a Full Health Check of Wood/Multi fuel Stove. Advice on key Dos & Don’ts.
Checking of ropes, seals, fire bricks, glass, outlets, ash pan, etc. If any repair or replacement further to this is required Iain will discuss this with you.
Discounts for multiple chimneys, appliances or properties please call or email for a quote.