The fireplace inspection is carried out twice in seven years by the responsible district chimney sweeps. This determines which fireplaces are to be swept or inspected on a regular basis. For this purpose, the district chimney sweeps issue a fireplace inspection notice. This also states when this work is to be carried out.
This regular chimney sweeping work may only be carried out by a licensed chimney sweeping company and must be commissioned by the owners.
In addition, the responsible district chimney sweeps must be notified of any changes to the installations. A new system may only be used after acceptance by the district chimney sweep.
Chimney inspection is mandatory
Postponing the work indefinitely, having it carried out only partially or not at all is not an option. Owners must allow the district chimney sweeps access and adhere to the requirements of the fireplace notice. They must have all work carried out in full and on time. Failure to do so will result in additional costs, such as a substitute performance or a fine. This is because not having chimney sweeping work carried out is an administrative offense.
The same also applies to tenants. If the district chimney sweeps or the chimney sweeps commissioned by the owners are not granted access, tenants must ultimately pay the additional costs incurred and also expect a fine.
Responsibilities and further information: Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Economic Affairs (opens in a new tab).
Lower immission control and waste management authority
