Open fires and wood-burning stoves have increased in popularity which means we now see more smoke from chimneys.
This may have negative effects on air quality and may cause breathing problems including asthma attacks and contribute to other health conditions.
Open fires and wood-burning stoves - a practical guide on Defra, UK
Log burners and open fires
Before installation, review the consumer guidance from HETAS.
A professional will ensure the log complies with Building Regulations and that the installation is safe and meets the requirements.
To avoid your log burner or open fire causing a statutory nuisance we recommend:
- using well-seasoned dry timber
- check if the fuel is Ready to Burn on their website
- not burning household rubbish or plastics
- reducing the use of wood burner (subject to weather conditions)
- ensuring the wood stove is not over sized for your home
- ensuring the height of the flue does not finish to close to neighbouring properties
- checking the flue height replicates chimney height and not obstructed to ensure sufficient smoke dispersal
Visit Smoke nuisance to find out what to do if smoke is affecting your home.