Thatched properties

Thatch fires spread rapidly and they’re very difficult to extinguish, so many homes are sadly destroyed.Nearly a quarter of thatched property fires over recent years saw the whole building damaged.

This means it is automatically seen as a hazard by Insurers and therefore will have a higher premium, should you wish to take out cover for a thatch building.

Thatched roof fires

Most thatched roof fires start in the chimney, but they can also be caused by badly installed electricity cables or embers from bonfires.

Chimney safety for your thatched home

There are precautions you can follow to reduce the risk of a fire if you have a chimney in your thatched home.

Use a stove pipe temperature gauge. This will help you use your stove at a safe and efficient temperature. Using your stove at high temperatures risks sparks catching the thatch; while using it at a low temperature can coat the chimney with soot and tar which can also lead to a chimney fire.

Add a chimney pot. Make sure the top of the chimney pots is at least 1.8 metres above the thatch.

Line your chimney. This stops fire gases and sparks from reaching the thatch.

Consider your fire type. Stoves are a popular choice, but they present a bigger risk of a fire in your thatched property than a traditional open fire. If you do have a stove, get it checked once a year.

Have your chimney swept regularly by a qualified chimney sweep. A chimney in regular use should be swept at least once a year. The frequency will depend on what you are burning.

Other ways to reduce the risk of fire in your thatched home

• Only burn well-seasoned wood. This means that it has been left to dry out for a long time and all the moisture has evaporated. Burning wet wood causes water vapour to combine with other gases and particles. This can create condensation, which then makes a substance that hardens to form tar. This is extremely flammable and can lead to chimney fires.

Make sure that you have working smoke alarms in your home.

Make sure you have the safety equipment advised by your insurers in your home (for example fire extinguishers, fire blankets etc).

• Don’t have bonfires or use fireworks and sky lanterns nearby. It is a good idea to chat about this with your neighbours too.

Don’t allow contractors to use blowtorches or heat guns when carrying out work on your home.

Cover lights in the ceiling below your loft with intumescent hoods. These are fire-resistant covers for light fittings and downlights.

Make an escape plan in the event of a fire.

Fit an outside tap and a hose that will reach around the building

This article is a general information sheet and should not be used or relied upon as professional advice. No liability can be accepted for any errors or omissions nor for any loss or damage arising from reliance upon any information herein. Always contact your financial adviser for specific and detailed advice. Errors and omissions excepted (E&OE)