It’s that time of year when that Christmas countdown really kicks into gear. Like many fireplace showrooms across the country, we’ve welcomed many customers through our doors seeking multi-fuel and wood-burning stoves.
It’s not just for that all-important festive atmosphere; it’s a reminder of why they remain a timeless focal point for any living space. There are big cost savings to be made too, as well as energy independence and the chance to add more character to your home. The shift from sipping pumpkin-spiced lattes and hearing the crunch of crisp leaves beneath your boots on a Sunday morning stroll, to the colder temperatures and freezing foggy days can feel extreme at the best of times, but while we may be spending less time outdoors, we perhaps have a touch more time to collect our thoughts, and contemplate the best home improvements and upgrades we can make to ensure our home is extra special at Christmas.
Perhaps you’re looking to create a cosy living room for friends and family to enjoy, somewhere welcoming and warm when the rain is pouring, the snow is thick, or the frost glistens on your windows. A log burner is often on that list, especially where style, character, cosiness and warmth are concerned. So, what does this mean for our team at this busy time of year? Lots of questions about log burners, of course, and one of the first that may come to mind is: “Do I need permission for a log burner?”
The very short answer is no; you will not typically need planning permission to have a log burner installed in your UK home. That said, the word ‘typically’ could carry a lot of weight in that sentence because there are exceptions to consider, and we’ve seen these with various installations all across North London, East London, Essex and Hertfordshire (we also cover many other areas). While most homeowners can indeed have a log burner installed without needing formal planning permission, factors like your property’s location, its status as a listed building, or placement within a conservation area can all influence the rules. Even if planning is unnecessary, you must still comply with Building Regulations, which set standards for safe installation, chimney height and flue type.
What Are Smoke Control Areas and How Do They Affect Log Burners?
As outlined by Defra: “A smoke control area is a legally defined area where you cannot emit a substantial amount of smoke from a chimney.” You can see whether you’re located in a smoke control area here, but this is only indicative, and it’s always best to visit your local council’s website for further details. The key detail to keep in mind is that you can be issued a fine of between £175 to £300 if you break this rule. You also mustn’t buy unauthorised fuel for use in a smoke control area unless it is to be used in an exempt appliance. Break this rule, and you could wind up with a £1,000 fine! That said, this doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t buy a stove that gives you the cosy ambience you crave.
There are plenty of Defra Exempted Stoves, including wood-burning and multi-fuel stoves, which have been tested and passed the stringent criteria. EcoDesign Ready Stoves go the extra mile, meeting stricter European emissions standards (which took effect in the UK from January 2022). The EcoDesign regulations are focused on improving air quality across all areas, not just in Smoke Control Areas. These stoves are designed to be more efficient and environmentally friendly, reducing particulate emissions, carbon monoxide and other harmful gases. They are built with advanced combustion technology that ensures cleaner, more efficient burning. Without going into too much detail on the legislation, it’s worth pointing out that right now, as we write this article in late 2024, many modern stoves are designed to meet both standards.
Why Is A Qualified Installer Essential?
For most homeowners across the country, using a qualified HETAS installer is highly recommended. Our professionals are trained to ensure the installation is safe, compliant, and efficient. Also, if your installation does not meet Building Regulations and is not certified by building control, it could affect your home insurance. In the event of a fire or damage, your insurer may refuse to pay out if the log burner installation is deemed non-compliant. While you’re not legally obliged to use a qualified installer, opting to do so can save you from potential safety hazards, costly fines, or insurance complications down the line.
There are also many regulations to consider, which cover crucial details like the construction of the hearth and the distance between the stove and surrounding materials, such as plasterboard walls and other combustible surfaces. Everything from the minimum clearance to combustibles to the size and construction of the hearth can significantly impact the safety and efficiency of your log burner. For example, Building Regulations specify how far your stove must be positioned from walls and furniture to prevent heat damage or fire hazards. The materials used for the hearth must be non-combustible and large enough to provide a safe barrier between the stove and the floor, while there are regulations around the chimney and flue installation to ensure proper ventilation and minimise the risk of carbon monoxide buildup.
If you’re considering investing in a multi-fuel or wood-burning stove and want to ensure you’re following the rules, choosing the right stove for your lifestyle – and all of those festive family moments – our experienced team are here to help. You can drop us a message, give us a call on 020 8529 1010 or pop into our showroom – no appointment necessary.
