Frequently asked questions
How often should I have my chimney swept and inspected?
Experts from Australian Home Heating Association recommend an annual inspection of all chimneys, fireplaces, and vents—regardless of how often you use them. A full sweep (cleaning) should be done at least once a year, or more frequently if you burn a lot of wood. This prevents dangerous creosote buildup, chimney fires, and carbon monoxide risks. Annual maintenance also saves money long-term by catching issues early.
What is creosote, and why is it dangerous?
Creosote is a tar-like, highly flammable substance that builds up inside your chimney from burning wood. It starts as a soft, sooty deposit and can harden into a glazed, corrosive layer. Even 1/8"–1/4" of buildup can ignite and cause a chimney fire hot enough to damage your home or spread flames. Regular sweeping removes it safely.
How long does a chimney sweep take?
A standard residential sweep and inspection usually takes 30–60 minutes, depending on chimney size, buildup level, and access.
Will chimney sweeping make a mess in my home?
Not with a professional service! We protect the area around the fireplace with dustsheets and all the mess gets cleared away. Most jobs leave no trace—our goal is a spotless home when we leave.
What are the signs my chimney needs cleaning?
Soot falling into the firebox.
Strong odors (like smoke or creosote) when the fireplace isn't in use.
Difficulty starting or maintaining fires.
Smoke backing up into the room.
Visible creosote (shiny black/glassy buildup) in the flue (best checked by a pro). If you notice any, book an inspection ASAP.
What should I do to prepare for my appointment?
Clear the area around the fireplace (move furniture, rugs, etc.).
Let the fireplace die out the night before your appointment so it is cool to tough. We'll handle the rest.
Pricing
Standard Fireplace
Low Season $165 ( October -April)
Peak Season $195 (May-September)
Speciality fireplace or Wood Stove/Oven
Low Season $198 ( October -April)
Peak Season $228 (May-September)
Open Fireplace
Low Season $250 ( October -April)
Peak Season $280 (May-September)
Terms and Conditions
Welcome to Black Cat Woodfire Services!
1. Services Provided Black Cat Woodfire Services ("we", "us", or "our") provides professional chimney sweeping, cleaning, and inspection services for wood-burning fireplaces, open fires, and chimneys. Services are performed using industry-standard techniques and equipment. We aim to remove soot, creosote, debris, and obstructions while conducting a visual inspectiions. However, our services do not include repairs, installations, modifications, structural assessments, or guarantees against future issues.
2. Client Responsibilities and Preparation You agree to:
Provide safe, clear access to the chimney, fireplace, and work areas (including removing furniture, rugs, or valuables if necessary).
Ensure the fireplace and chimney are cool and have not been used for at least 8 hours prior to our arrival.
Inform us in advance of any known defects, unusual conditions, animals/nests, or access difficulties. Failure to do so may result in additional fees, incomplete service, or cancellation without refund.
3. Limitation of Liability To the maximum extent permitted by law (including under the Australian Consumer Law), Black Cat Woodfire Services, its owners, employees, contractors, and agents shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, special, or exemplary damages arising from our services. This includes (but is not limited to):
Damage to property, structures, decorations, or belongings caused by pre-existing conditions, hidden defects, natural wear and tear, weather, structural weaknesses, or issues not reasonably detectable during a standard sweep/inspection.
Chimney fires, smoke damage, carbon monoxide exposure, or other hazards occurring after our service due to improper use, inadequate maintenance, or factors beyond our control.
Loss of use, loss of profits, business interruption, or any other economic loss.
Our total liability for any claim related to our services shall be limited to the amount paid by you for the specific service giving rise to the claim.
4. No Warranties or Guarantees We provide no express or implied warranties beyond those required by law. Services are performed to a professional standard based on visible and accessible conditions at the time of the appointment. We do not guarantee:
Complete removal of all creosote or buildup in inaccessible areas.
Prevention of future creosote formation, chimney fires, or blockages.
That the chimney will remain safe indefinitely or comply with future regulations. Any recommendations provided (e.g., for repairs) are advisory only and not a substitute for specialist assessment.
5. Pre-Existing Conditions and Exclusions We are not responsible for discovering or liable for issues caused by:
Pre-existing cracks, leaks, corrosion, animal damage, or structural defects in the chimney, flue, liner, damper, or surrounding masonry.
Improper previous installations, modifications, or maintenance by others.
Use of unapproved fuels, excessive burning, or failure to follow safety guidelines post-service.
If such conditions are identified during our work, we may suspend services and recommend further specialist evaluation (at your cost).
6. Indemnity You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Black Cat Woodfire Services from any claims, losses, damages, liabilities, costs (including legal fees), or expenses arising from:
Your breach of these terms.
Misuse of the fireplace/chimney after our service.
Any third-party claims related to your property or use thereof.
7. Payment and Cancellation Full payment is due upon completion of services unless otherwise agreed. We reserve the right to charge cancellation fees if notice is less than 24 hours, or no-show fees if access is not provided as arranged.
8. Governing Law These Terms and Conditions are governed by the laws of Western Australia. Any disputes shall be resolved in the courts of Western Australia.
9. Acceptance By booking, paying for, or allowing us to perform services on your property, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to these Terms and Conditions.