Thatched living

Living in a thatched property doesn’t necessarily increase your risk of fire, but it does require extra care and maintenance to keep your home safe. 

Thatched roof fires are relatively rare but when they happen, they’re often serious. Over 90% of thatch fires are caused by faulty chimneys or flues. Because thatch is designed to repel water, these fires can be difficult to extinguish.

Read our guidance on how to keep your thatched home safe from fire.  

A poorly maintained chimney can allow heat, smoke, or even flames to escape into the thatch or roof space. Regular care and inspections are vital. 

What you can do: 

• Have your chimney swept at least twice a year—typically in autumn and early spring.
• Use a registered professional for any building, electrical, or gas work.
• Fit a bird guard to prevent blockages from nesting birds or debris.
• Regularly inspect and repair your chimney to keep it in top condition.

Open fires and wood burners can be safe and effective—but only when used correctly.

Best practices: 

• Fires should be lit using firelighters and kindling only, paper or card can be lifted out of the chimney which could land on the thatch.
• Only burn seasoned or kiln-dried wood with a moisture content below 20%. You can check moisture levels with a moisture meter or probe.
• Store your firewood in a dry, well-ventilated space.
• Do not burn household waste or unapproved materials. This can damage your flue and increase the risk of fire.

Check with your insurance provider about your level of cover and any extra precautions they require you to carry out due to the property being thatched. 

If your property is hard to locate download the what3words app to help us arrive as quickly as we can 

Create a Salvage Plan identifying the location of valuable items and critical utility shutoffs to help salvage belongings and protect the remaining structure from fire and water damage.