What will happen during the annual solid-fuel safety inspection

East Durham Homes operates a twice yearly service visit to ensure that your solid-fuel appliance is operating safely.  This service is provided by our repairs and maintenance partner Morrison. Appliances that are serviced regularly are less likely to break down.

During the solid-fuel safety inspection Morrison's National Association of Chimney Sweeps (NACS) approved engineer will carry out the following checks on your appliance:

• Carry out a thorough inspection of your appliance.
• Sweep your chimney.
• Check that your chimney is safe.
• Check that your air vent is correct.
• Replace any necessary parts.
• Advise on what fuels to use.
• Service your hard wired smoke alarm.

• Issue a safety certificate.

On completion Morrison's engineer will explain to you what work has been carried out and ask you to sign the solid-fuel appliance record.

You will be handed a copy of the certificate, which lets you know your appliance is in safe working order.

If any additional work is required that wasn't able to be completed at the service then another appointment will be made at a mutually convenient time.

Our policy is to carry out a full annual service of your solid-fuel appliance and flue.  We also offer a second sweep of your chimney due to the poor quality of fuels used.  Tenants are respectively reminded to buy their fuel from an approved coal merchant.

A letter is sent annually reminding tenants to check the appliances throatplate particularly after periods of heavy rain.

Solid-fuel safety advice

Remember:

• Proper ventilation.
• Regular cleaning and sweeping.
• Use the right fuel.
• Empty and check the ash pan daily.
• Throatplates should be removed and cleaned monthly.
• Never leave an open fire unattended without a fireguard.

• Always use a securely fitted fireguard when children are in the house.

If your appliance begins to burn slowly, goes out frequently or if you smell or suspect fumes you must:

• Open all doors and windows.
• Allow the fire to burn itself out.
• Do not stay in the room longer than is necessary.
• Do not attempt to re-kindle the appliance until it has been checked by a professional.

• Contact East Durham Homes on 0800 032 0835.

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Document Created: 14/09/2009 16:17 , last modified: 20/01/2011 09:21