Yes — a wood burner is safe when it’s installed properly, serviced regularly and used with the right fuel. The danger isn’t the stove; it’s bad installations and neglected chimneys. Here’s what the law requires, what a safe installation looks like, and the red flags to watch for.
What the law requires
- Carbon monoxide alarm — the law in England and Wales says any new or replacement solid fuel installation must have a working CO alarm in the same room as the stove. It’s not optional.
- Building Regulations compliance — every installation must meet Approved Document J (ventilation, flue, clearances, hearth). A HETAS-registered installer self-certifies; anyone else must use Building Control.
- Certificate of Compliance — any solid fuel appliance fitted since April 2005 should have one. You’ll need it to sell the house, and insurers ask for it.
The HETAS difference
HETAS is the UK’s specialist body for solid fuel. A HETAS-registered installer is trained and assessed, carries out the work to the current regulations, and issues your certificate. That’s why every Everwarm Fires installation is done by our own HETAS-registered engineers — never subcontracted.
Safe fuel: burn dry wood
Since May 2021, wood sold in small quantities in England must be Ready to Burn certified at 20% moisture or less. Wet wood wastes heat, blackens your glass, and coats the flue in creosote — the biggest single cause of chimney fires. If you season your own wood, a £20 moisture meter settles it.
Keep it safe after installation
- Have the chimney swept at least once a year — twice if you run an open fire with heavy use (see our sweep guide)
- Have the stove serviced annually by a HETAS service technician
- Keep the CO alarm tested — it should be replaced every 5–7 years
- Only burn the fuel your stove is designed for
Red flags: when an installation is dangerous
Watch for flue liners fitted upside down, missing hearths, stoves too close to combustible walls, no ventilation, and no CO alarm. These are exactly the problems we find when we’re called to fix someone else’s install — and a chimney fire or CO leak is the consequence. If you’re unsure about an existing stove, we’ll give you free, honest advice.
FAQs
Will my insurer cover my wood burner? Usually yes with a HETAS certificate and regular sweeping — check your policy and keep the paperwork.
How long does a CO alarm last? Most last 5–7 years — check the expiry date on the back.
Can I install a stove myself? Legally you must notify Building Control before starting; a HETAS installer self-certifies instead, and it’s far safer. See our planning permission guide for the full picture.
Worried about an existing stove?
We offer free, friendly advice on existing installations across Kent, Sussex and Surrey — call 01622 278160 or 07383670335, email info@everwarmfires.co.uk, or see our wood burner installation and contact pages.