Chimney Sweeping in France: What Home Owners Need to Know

If you own a property in France with a fireplace, stove, insert, or wood/solid-fuel heater, chimney sweeping, or 'ramonage', is not just sensible, it’s the law. And in some areas, new regulations now require two sweeps per year. Here’s a practical guide for owners of French property, whether it is your primary residence or a holiday home..

National requirements

Under French law:

• Minimum frequency: Every 12 months for all flues and connection pipes serving combustion appliances. Some local authorities now require twice yearly, with at least one sweep during the heating season

• Who is responsible: The owner of the property is legally responsible to ensure that the obligations are carried out correctly

• Professional requirement: Sweeping must be carried out by a qualified professional who provides an 'attestation de ramonage' (proof of sweeping). This certificate should be kept for at least two years

• Mechanical sweeping only: Products such as “chimney logs” are useful for maintenance but cannot replace a proper sweep

Areas with two sweeps per year

Some communes, particularly those with higher risk of chimney fires, now require two sweeps annually. Typically:

1. before or at the start of the heating season

2. during the heating season

Local rules vary, so it’s always best to check with the mairie (town hall) or the Règlement Sanitaire Départemental (RSD) for your commune. When in doubt, follow the stricter requirement to avoid fines and insurance issues.

Practical advice for UK second-home owners

1. Book a local ramoneur in advance, as many French chimney sweeps are booked months ahead during autumn

   
   

2. Plan for two sweeps if required - schedule one pre-season and one mid-season if your commune mandates it

   
   

3. Obtain the attestation de ramonage and keep a copy safely for at least two years; it’s essential for insurance and resale

   
   

4. Do not rely on chemical logs alone, as they help prevent soot buildup but do not meet legal requirements

Insurance & legal compliance

• Insurers often require proof of chimney sweeping in the event of a fire or carbon monoxide incident

• Failure to sweep according to law or local regulations could lead to fines and, in worst cases, reduced insurance coverage

FAQ

Do gas appliances need sweeping?

Yes, all combustion appliances are covered. In some areas, flues serving gas-only appliances may only require an annual sweep, but confirm locally.

What if the property hasn’t been used all year?

If the fireplace or stove hasn’t been used, a sweep isn’t required for that year. Before use, however, you must sweep it.

How long should I keep the certificate?

Keep all attestation de ramonage for at least two years in case of inspections or insurance claims.

Key takeaways

• National law: at least once per year.

• Local rules: check your commune; some require two sweeps per year.

• Always use a qualified professional and keep certificates safe.

• Plan ahead, especially for autumn bookings and if you do not visit frequently.

If you need help finding a trustworthy tradesperson, be it a chimney sweep or any other trade, feel free to contact me and I will be pleased to help!