Thatch fires remain a ‘burning issue'

Following a recent spate of thatch fires, NFU Mutual is urging owners of thatched properties to ensure they carry-out essential checks to prevent the risk of a fire destroying their home or business.

Although the sub-zero temperatures of last winter are behind us, a combination of dry, warm days and chilly evenings could prove to be a dangerous combination for homeowners who turn to the warmth of a real fire.

Chimneys which have been in regular use over the long, cold winter may well have accumulated a build-up of soot deposits. It is therefore vital homeowners remember to have their chimneys swept to help prevent the risk of fire, particularly as the prolonged spell of dry weather is likely to have left thatch roofs tinder dry.

As the UK's leading rural insurer NFU Mutual has an extensive knowledge of country properties, from thatched homes to local businesses such as village shops, doctor's and veterinary surgeries, post offices and public houses.

90% of thatch fires relate to chimneys and the use of wood burning stoves and in December 2010, NFU Mutual handled claims for thatched properties damaged or destroyed by fire totalling £2.8 million.

Although statistically a home with a thatched roof is no more likely to catch fire than a home with a conventional roof, if a thatched roof does ignite the fire can be very difficult to control. As such, the consequences of a thatch fire are often devastating, leaving buildings partially or totally destroyed.

Commenting on the importance of protecting thatched properties, Nicki Whittaker from NFU Mutual, said: "Living beneath a thatched roof doesn't mean you can't enjoy the warmth of a real fire, but it is important homeowners exercise a degree of caution before lighting an open fire or wood burning stove.

"There are plenty of measures you can employ to help protect your property. Homeowners can carry out their own checks, but if you have not used your fire or wood-burner for a while it's probably advisable you speak to a qualified thatcher or fire safety officer for further tips on preventative measures."

If a thatched property is damaged by fire, it can take up to 18 months for a property to be re-built, or even longer for a listed building. Therefore any steps a homeowner can take to reduce the risk of a thatch fire could help to avoid the inconvenience and heartache of dealing with the aftermath of such an event.

To help homeowners, NFU Mutual has produced a number of online guides giving advice about buying and caring for a thatched property. Homeowners can visit nfumutual.co.uk to view the guides or for more thatch tips.

TIPS FOR THATCH FIRE SAFETY:

Ensure your chimney stack is at least five feet above the thatch, allowing sparks to escape and die-out before they settle.

Around 90% of thatch fires are caused by chimneys. Ensure your chimney is swept regularly to prevent a build-up of soot deposits.

Have your chimney checked to ensure that the brick or stone work is in good condition, especially where it passes through the thatch.

Consider having your chimney lined. An insulated lining should be fitted where the stack passes through the thatch.

When installing a stove, make sure you employ a professional with experience of thatched properties to do the job.

Keep an eye on the flue temperature by fitting a flue thermometer.

Locate smoke alarms and fire extinguishers throughout the property.