Birds often see an unused chimney as an ideal place to build a nest. Unfortunately, a chimney blocked with twigs, nesting material and debris cannot safely carry smoke and combustion gases away from your home.
H Firkins & Sons provides bird and pigeon nest removal from chimneys throughout London and surrounding areas, using specialist chimney sweeping and inspection equipment to clear the flue and check it before it is brought back into use.
We can also help with birds that have become trapped in a chimney and advise on suitable measures to reduce the chance of birds nesting there again.
Why does a bird nest need to be removed?
A substantial nest can partially or completely block a chimney. That creates an obvious problem when a fireplace, stove or other appliance is used.
Nesting material can:
- Restrict or block the flow of smoke and combustion gases.
- Increase the risk of smoke spilling back into the room.
- Contribute to a carbon monoxide hazard where combustion products cannot escape correctly.
- Introduce a large amount of dry combustible material into the chimney.
- Hold moisture and debris inside the flue.
- Attract insects and other pests once the nest is abandoned.
If you suspect there is a nest in your chimney, do not light a fire in an attempt to burn it out.
Can an active bird nest be removed?
Wild birds and their active nests are protected by law. Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it is generally an offence to intentionally take, damage or destroy a wild bird’s nest while it is being built or is in use.
If birds are actively nesting in the chimney, the nest will normally need to be left until it is no longer in use unless a relevant legal exception or licence applies. You should not light the appliance while an active nest is present.
Once the nest is no longer active, the chimney can be cleared and checked before it is used again.
How do we remove a bird nest from a chimney?
The exact method depends on the chimney and the size and position of the blockage.
Specialist brushes, rods and other chimney sweeping equipment are used to break down and remove the old nesting material. Large nests can contain a surprising quantity of twigs and debris, so complete removal may take considerably longer than a routine chimney sweep.
Once the material has been removed, the flue is swept thoroughly and checked to make sure it is clear.
What if a bird is trapped in the chimney?
A bird that has accidentally entered a chimney is a different situation from an active nest.
Where appropriate, we can use chimney equipment and inspection cameras to establish where a trapped bird is located and help remove it safely.
If an injured bird is found, appropriate wildlife or veterinary advice may be needed before it is handled or released.
Checking the chimney afterwards
Removing the nest is only part of the job. Before the chimney is used again, it is important to establish that the flue is clear and functioning correctly.
Depending on the circumstances, this may include:
- A full chimney sweep.
- Checking the debris removed from the flue.
- A smoke evacuation test.
- Inspection of the chimney pot or terminal.
- A CCTV inspection if there is concern about the condition of the flue or if material remains difficult to locate.
If a more detailed internal investigation is required, see our Comprehensive Chimney & Flue Surveys.
Preventing birds nesting in your chimney again
Once an old nest has been removed and the chimney is clear, it may be sensible to protect the chimney pot against further nesting.
Depending on the chimney and appliance, a suitable bird guard or chimney cowl can help prevent birds gaining access while still allowing the chimney to ventilate and discharge correctly.
The correct terminal must be suitable for the appliance and flue. A random cap or cowl should not simply be fitted without considering how the chimney is intended to work.
Bird Nest Removal FAQs
Can you remove a bird nest from my chimney?
Yes. H Firkins & Sons has specialist equipment for removing old bird nests and nesting material from chimneys. The chimney is then swept and checked before being returned to use.
Can you remove an active bird nest?
An active wild bird nest is legally protected while it is being built or used. In normal circumstances it must be left until the birds have finished nesting unless a lawful exception or appropriate licence applies.
Can I light a fire to burn the nest out?
No. A bird nest can contain a large quantity of dry combustible material and may also completely obstruct the flue. Do not light the appliance if you suspect the chimney is blocked by a nest.
How do I know if birds are nesting in my chimney?
Common signs include birds repeatedly visiting the chimney pot, scratching or movement noises in the flue, twigs falling into the fireplace and poor chimney draw. An inspection can confirm whether the flue is obstructed.
Can you remove a bird trapped in my chimney?
Where appropriate, we can use chimney sweeping and camera equipment to locate and help remove a trapped bird. Active nesting birds and their nests are subject to legal protection.
How can I stop birds nesting in the chimney again?
A suitable bird guard or chimney cowl may help prevent birds entering the chimney. The correct type depends on the flue and appliance, so it should be selected with the chimney system in mind.
Book Bird Nest Removal in London
If you believe a bird nest or trapped bird is blocking your chimney, contact H Firkins & Sons and tell us what you have noticed.
We provide chimney sweeping, nest removal and specialist chimney inspection services throughout London and surrounding areas.