Bird Nest Removal from Chimneys

Why Bird Nests Are a Serious Problem

Birds - particularly jackdaws, pigeons, and starlings - often nest in chimneys, viewing them as safe, sheltered locations. While this might seem harmless, bird nests in chimneys create significant safety risks:

• Complete Blockage: Nests can completely block the flue, preventing smoke and gases from escaping
• Carbon Monoxide Risk: Blocked flues cause deadly carbon monoxide to enter your home instead of venting outside
• Chimney Fires: Nest materials are highly flammable and can ignite from stray sparks or heat
• Smoke Damage: Blocked chimneys cause smoke to billow into rooms, damaging furnishings and decoration
• Impossible to Light: You simply cannot use a fireplace or stove with a blocked chimney - it's unsafe and ineffective

Signs You May Have a Bird's Nest

Common indicators of bird nesting in your chimney include:

• Hearing bird noises (chirping, scratching, fluttering) from the chimney
• Seeing birds repeatedly landing on or around the chimney pot
• Finding twigs, leaves, or other debris fallen into the fireplace
• Noticing a sudden smell from the fireplace (particularly if nestlings have died)
• Smoke not drawing properly or entering the room when you try to use the fire
• Visible nest material at the top of the chimney pot
• Discovering the blockage during a routine chimney sweep

UK Law and Bird Nest Removal

When Can Nests Be Removed?

Bird nests can be safely and legally removed when:

• The nest is old and no longer in use (abandoned from previous season)
• The nesting period has ended and young birds have fledged
• It's outside the main nesting season (typically September to February)
• We've confirmed there are no eggs or chicks present

If we discover an active nest during inspection, we'll advise you on timing and legal options. In some cases, you may need to wait until the chicks have fledged before removal can proceed.

Our Bird Nest Removal Service - £100

What's Included

• Full nest removal using specialist chimney equipment
• Thorough flue cleaning after nest removal
• Smoke draw test to confirm chimney is functioning
• Advice on bird guard or cowl fitting to prevent future nesting
• Digital certificate confirming completed work
• Your property left clean and tidy

The Removal Process

1. Initial Assessment: We inspect from below to confirm nest presence and check for activity (eggs/chicks)
2. Legal Check: If there's any indication of active nesting, we stop and advise on timing
3. Removal: Using brushes, rods, and vacuum equipment, we safely remove all nest material
4. Flue Cleaning: We thoroughly clean the entire flue length to remove any remaining debris
5. Testing: Smoke draw test confirms the chimney is now functioning properly
6. Prevention Advice: We discuss bird guard options and can provide a quote for fitting

How Long Does It Take?

Nest removal typically takes 60-90 minutes, depending on the size and location of the nest. Some large jackdaw nests can take longer if they've been built up over multiple seasons.

Bird Nests Discovered During Standard Sweeping

Bird nests are sometimes discovered only when we start a routine chimney sweep. This is because nests are often located higher up in the flue where they're not visible from below, and many chimneys show no obvious external signs of bird activity.

We understand this can be frustrating, especially if you were planning to use your fireplace. However, we take our legal obligations seriously and will not remove active nests. The good news is that once young birds fledge (usually within a few weeks), we can return to complete the work.

Preventing Future Bird Nests

Once we've removed a nest, the best solution is to prevent birds from nesting again. We can advise on and fit:

Bird Guards and Cowls

• Wire Mesh Guards: Simple mesh over the chimney pot prevents bird access while allowing smoke to escape
• Chimney Cowls: Metal caps that prevent rain, downdraught, and bird entry
• Bird Spikes: For chimney pots where guards aren't suitable
• Rotating Cowls: Prevent downdraught while keeping birds out

Prevention is far more cost-effective than annual nest removal. A properly fitted bird guard will last for many years and give you complete peace of mind.

Why Choose Professional Nest Removal?

Safety

DIY nest removal is dangerous. You're working with equipment inside a confined, sooty space, often reaching heights that require chimney access. Professional chimney sweeps have the right tools, training, and insurance.

Complete Removal

Partially removed nests leave debris that can still block your chimney. We ensure complete removal of all nest material and thoroughly clean the flue afterwards.

Legal Compliance

We understand UK wildlife protection laws and won't put you at risk of prosecution by removing active nests. We can advise on legal timing and options.

Proper Verification

After removal, we conduct smoke testing to confirm your chimney is now functioning correctly. You'll know for certain that it's safe to use.

What Types of Birds Nest in Chimneys?

Jackdaws

The most common chimney-nesting bird in the UK. Jackdaws build substantial nests from sticks, often creating large blockages. They return to the same nesting sites year after year, so prevention is essential once a nest is removed.

Pigeons

Pigeons may nest on ledges inside chimneys or on chimney pots. Their nests are typically smaller but still cause blockage problems.

Starlings

Starlings nest in cavities and may use chimney pots or spaces within the chimney structure. Their nests are smaller but can still impede airflow.

Swifts

Swifts are legally protected and require special consideration. If you suspect swifts, we'll advise on legal options and timing.

Emergency Nest Removal

If you've attempted to light a fire and discovered smoke billowing into the room, this may indicate a nest blockage. Do not continue to use the fireplace - this is dangerous and could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Contact us as soon as possible. We'll arrange a visit to assess the situation. If the nest can be legally removed, we can often do so the same day or within 24-48 hours, getting your chimney back in service quickly and safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I remove a bird's nest myself?

Legally, yes - if the nest is not active (no eggs or chicks). Practically, we don't recommend it. Chimney work requires specialist equipment, safety training, and proper disposal of nest material. Professional removal ensures complete clearance and verification that your chimney works safely.

Will birds keep coming back?

Yes, birds often return to successful nesting sites. Once we've removed a nest, we strongly recommend fitting a bird guard to prevent future nesting. This is a one-time cost that solves the problem permanently.

What if I find a bird in the fireplace?

Occasionally, birds (especially young ones) fall down chimneys. If you find a live bird in your fireplace, carefully contain it and release it outside. Then contact us to inspect for nests that may have caused the problem.

Can nests damage my chimney?

Large nests can cause wear on flue liners and internal chimney structures. More commonly, the problem is blockage rather than direct damage. However, if nests cause water retention, this can lead to deterioration over time.

Do you offer bird guard fitting?

Yes, we can supply and fit appropriate bird guards or cowls. We'll assess your chimney type and recommend the best solution during our visit. Contact us for a quote on guard fitting.

Why Choose Soot Happens for Bird Nest Removal?

• Legal Compliance: We follow all wildlife protection laws
• Complete Service: Removal, cleaning, and smoke testing included
• Expert Equipment: Specialist tools for safe, thorough nest removal
• Prevention Advice: We help you avoid repeat problems
• ICS Registered: Professional chimney sweeping standards
• Fully Insured: £1 million public liability insurance
• Transparent Pricing: £100 fixed price for nest removal and flue cleaning