Make a clean sweep before winter

As the Indian summer starts to draw to a close, NFU Mutual is urging the owners of thatched properties to check the condition of the roof and chimney before they begin to enjoy the warmth of an open fire.

Although homes with thatched roofs are no more likely to catch fire than those with conventional roofs, if a thatched roof does ignite, the results are rapid and spectacular. Around 90 per cent of thatch fires are caused by chimneys - so NFU Mutual is suggesting that have your chimney swept regularly to prevent a build-up of soot deposits.

Laura Wood from NFU Mutual comments, “Living beneath a thatched roof doesn't mean you can't enjoy the warmth of an open fire or wood burning stove. As with many things, it is simply a matter of exercising common sense. There are plenty of checks that you can make to protect your property but you can also talk to a qualified thatcher or fire safety officer for further tips on preventative measures.”

Tips for Thatch Fire Safety

Ensure that the top of the chimney stack is at least five feet above the thatch, allowing sparks to escape and die-out before they settle on the thatch.
Have your chimney checked to ensure that the brick or stone work is in good condition, especially where it passes through the thatch.
An insulated lining should be fitted where the stack passes through the thatch.
Having your chimney lined is a sensible precaution.
When installing a stove, make sure you employ a professional with experience of thatched properties to do the job.
Keep any eye on the flue temperature by fitting a flue thermometer.
Do not burn wet or unseasoned wood, as this will leave greater deposits in the flue.
Electrical wires in the roof space should be checked by an electrician at regular intervals and your electricity provider will often conduct a free visual check for you.
Check your roof for signs of mice or other vermin as they can cause damage to electric wires.
Locate smoke alarms and appropriate fire extinguishers throughout the property.
Remove spark arrestors. Dirty spark arrestors are lethal, sometimes causing combustion through poor venting.
If contractors are carrying-out work in the roof space, make sure they do not use blowtorches or other equipment which could create sparks. Plumbers for example should only use compression joints.

Laura Wood concludes, “Thatched homes are not disproportionately expensive to insure - it is simply a matter of shopping around and finding an insurer who is experienced in thatched properties. As a rural insurer, NFU Mutual has an expansive knowledge of rural properties and can offer you an insurance policy that's tailor-made to help you protect the features which are unique to your thatched home.