Installing wood-burning stoves

Even though spring is here we know that homeowners are often looking to provide multi-fuel or wood-burning stoves to provide a modern and attractive form of heating.

When these are installed in either an existing fireplace or as part of a new house or extension then the building regulations apply.

You will need to certify any installation into an existing fireplace under the Competent Persons Scheme, who will then notify the local authority once the work is complete. If you do not use a competent person then you will need to make an application to the LABC team.

If the work is part of an extension or new house, then your local Building Control team will inspect the foundations and the construction of the chimney and hearth. Once the stove is installed in the new fireplace your competent installer will certify and test the appliance.

We have a guide to help you with any installation to consider all the key aspects.

Your LABC team can help with queries to ensure the appliance is environmentally-friendly and meets government guidelines for the clean air strategy and the homeowner will need to consider smoke control areas and authorised fuels.

Our guide will help you ensure that any work is correctly certified and safe to use. Please search on our website to find the location of your local Building Control team.

_{Please Note: Every care was taken to ensure the information was correct at the time of publication. Any written guidance provided does not replace the user’s professional judgement. It is the responsibility of the dutyholder or person carrying out the work to ensure compliance with relevant building regulations or applicable technical standards.}