Bird Nest Removal

Our Services

Get Started Today

Midlands Sweeps provides reliable bird nest removal from chimneys, professional chimney sweeping, and chimney cowl installation across Swadlincote, Burton upon Trent, and surrounding areas, helping keep your chimney and flue safe, clear, and working efficiently.

Any questions?

Let’s talk

Chimney Care Services

Bird Nest Removal From Chimneys

Bird nests can create serious blockages inside chimneys and flues,
affecting airflow and preventing smoke and harmful gases from escaping properly.
Midlands Sweeps provides professional bird nest removal and chimney sweeping
to help keep your chimney clear and ready for safe use.

Contact Midlands Sweeps

Common Warning Signs

Is There a Bird Nest in Your Chimney?

There are several signs that may indicate birds have nested inside your chimney.
If you notice any of the following, it is worth having the chimney checked.

✓ Twigs or nesting material falling into the fireplace

✓ Scratching or bird noises inside the chimney

✓ Smoke entering the room

✓ Poor chimney or stove draw

✓ Unpleasant smells from the chimney

✓ Birds regularly entering the chimney pot

✓ Reduced stove or fireplace performance

✓ Loose debris appearing around the fireplace

Important:

If you suspect that the chimney is blocked, avoid using the fireplace or stove
until the flue has been properly checked.

Why It Matters

Why Bird Nests in Chimneys Can Be a Problem

A nest can partially or completely block a chimney flue. This can restrict
the movement of smoke and combustion gases and may leave large amounts of
dry nesting material inside the chimney.

Restricted Airflow

Nesting material can reduce chimney draw and stop smoke from moving
efficiently through the flue.

Smoke Problems

A blocked chimney may cause smoke to spill back into the room instead
of escaping safely outside.

Fire Risk

Dry twigs, leaves and nesting materials inside the chimney may increase
the risk of a chimney fire.

Falling Debris

Pieces of nest material can break loose and fall into the fireplace,
stove or lower part of the chimney.

Poor Appliance Performance

Stoves and fireplaces may struggle to operate correctly when the chimney
does not have sufficient airflow.

Unpleasant Smells

Old nesting material, feathers and debris can contribute to unwanted
smells coming from the chimney.

Responsible Removal

Safe and Responsible Bird Nest Removal

Birds commonly nest during the spring and summer months. Active nests,
eggs and young birds may be protected under UK wildlife law, which means
nests should not simply be removed without checking whether they are active.

When removal can safely and legally take place, Midlands Sweeps can inspect
the chimney, remove old nesting material and help restore a clear pathway
through the flue.

Read UK government guidance on wild birds →

Our service can include:

Checking the chimney for nesting material
Removing old or inactive nests when appropriate
Clearing loose debris
Sweeping the chimney after removal
Helping restore chimney airflow
Advising on future bird prevention

What Happens Next

Removal, Sweeping and Prevention

Removing the visible nest is only one part of the process. The chimney
should also be checked and cleared of remaining debris before regular use.

Remove

Old nesting material is carefully removed when it is safe and appropriate
to do so.

Sweep

The chimney is swept to remove remaining soot, twigs, feathers and other
loose debris.

Prevent

A suitable chimney cowl may be recommended to reduce the chance of birds
entering again.

Future Protection

Chimney Cowls to Help Prevent Birds Returning

Once the chimney has been cleared, prevention is worth considering.
Midlands Sweeps can provide and install suitable chimney pot cowls designed
to help reduce the chance of birds entering and nesting again.

The correct type of cowl will depend on the chimney, the chimney pot and
the appliance connected to the flue.

Different sizes

Different shapes

Different colours

Different styles

Various chimney pot fittings

Options for different chimney types

About Midlands Sweeps

Why Choose Midlands Sweeps?

We focus on safe, tidy and professional chimney care while providing clear
advice about the condition of your chimney and the most appropriate next step.

Veteran-Owned

A professionally operated local chimney sweeping business.

Fully Insured

Work carried out with customer safety and peace of mind in mind.

NACS Registered

Registered with the National Association of Chimney Sweeps.

Need Your Chimney Checked?

Looking for Bird Nest Removal Near You?

If you suspect there is a bird nest inside your chimney, arrange an
inspection before using your stove or fireplace again.