Most chimney fires occur following a build up of creosote on the internal surface of the chimney flue lining or due to a blockage of some sort. Creosote can ignite at approximately 232 degrees Celsius. When considering that fireplaces can frequently exceed this temperature, ignition of chimney fire can easily occur in the right circumstances.
Chimney fires are not common where oil and gas are burnt. These fuels burn relatively clean and tend to leave minimal creosote residue on the flue lining.
We manage chimney fire claims on an almost weekly basis. Properties in the west and mid land regions (where solid fuels are more commonly burnt) tend suffer chimney fire damage to a must greater frequency.
Turf, being a relatively damp fuel source, gives rise to a much greater extent of creosote deposits and therefore commonly gives rise to chimney fires. When turf burning is combined with coal (which burns much hotter than turf), the likelihood of chimney fire is increased.
Chimney fires can burn at temperatures up to 1000 degrees Celsius which is hot enough to break clay flue liners and melt metal flue liners.
A chimney fire can be fast burning or slow burning. A slow burning chimney fire, while less dramatic, can also cause serious damage. A slow burning chimney fire can go undetected at the time of the incident, only to be discovered upon chimney survey or when water ingress arises.
We have advanced knowledge of chimney fires and the complications that can arise during the fire incident and the reinstatement process. In evaluating the damage it is important to consider policy entitlements to reinstate in line with current building regulations. This includes:
- Consideration of the proximity of roof timbers to the chimney
- Ventilation compliance in all rooms where the chimney passes through
- Carbon Monoxide alarms in all rooms where the chimney passes through
- Installation of lead tray to new chimney stack
- Viability of existing brick chimney structures for supporting new chimney
Where necessary we can assist with co-ordination of CCTV chimney survey, smoke fill tests, engineering surveys.
Commercial Chimney Fire Claims
We have extensive experience in the management of commercial chimney fire claims including protected stone buildings and multi storey hotel properties. Such claim projects require consideration of the continued operation of the commercial premises during the work and loss of revenues arising from the incident/repairs.
Testimonies from previous commercial clients are available upon request.