Homeowners typically increase their fireplace use during the colder months for warmth. For those living in thatched properties, this can increase the risk of a thatch roof fire, particularly if they rely on a wood-burning chimney as their primary source of heating.

It's therefore unsurprising that the leading cause of thatch roof fires originates from embers and sparks emitted from these chimneys. It is essential for thatched property owners to take steps to minimise fire risk.

Once a fire takes hold in a thatched roof, it is extremely difficult to control due to the roof's water-shedding design, often resulting in significant damage. Effective prevention remains the most reliable means of reducing the risk of a thatch fire.

What can you do to help reduce the risk of a thatch roof fire?

• Burn only seasoned or kiln-dried wood. Avoid anything with a moisture level over 20%.
• Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for wood burner ventilation and recommended conditions.
• Sweep chimney regularly, and have it inspected by a certified professional! Do this both at the start and during the burning season.
• Remove spark arrestors. Consider using a bird guard.
• Take care when lighting fires. Avoid using paper and card as these materials can be unpredictable. Consider firelighters instead.
• Keep the area around the fireplace clear of combustible materials.
• Carry out CCTV inspections to identify areas of concern in your chimney. In a damaged chimney structure, there could be gaps that allow embers to pass through to the thatch.
• Keep wood-burner baffles clean.
• Ensure the chimney extends sufficiently above the thatch, as adequate height improves the dispersal of embers away from the roof.
• Avoid periods of long burning, or smouldering fires.
• Check electrical wiring and lighting within the roof space to ensure they meet safety standards.

Take out suitable thatched property insurance

A thatched property is not only expensive to build, but also to repair and maintain. Due to this, it's highly recommended that you take out a specialist thatched house insurance policy that's tailored to your needs.

Get in touch with our friendly and knowledgeable team for more information.