Bird Nest and Blockage Removal

Bird Nest & Animal Blockage Removal

Birds and other critters love to make chimneys their home, but a blocked chimney can spell trouble for yours. If you suspect a bird’s nest or any animal blockage in your flue, The Good Sweep offers safe and efficient removal services throughout Suffolk. Common culprits in our area include jackdaws building twig nests, pigeons or starlings getting stuck, and even the occasional squirrel or rodent. We’re experts at clearing these blockages so you can use your fireplace safely again (and the animals can find a more suitable home!).

Our Safe Removal Process:

• CCTV Assessment: First, we often send in our chimney camera to locate the nest or blockage This tells us what we’re dealing with - an old nest, a current nest with eggs/young, or maybe a dead bird and where it’s located.
• Gentle Extraction: Using specialist tools (nest removal whips, rods, and hooks), we carefully dislodge the nesting material or debris and pull it out of the chimney. We work from the fireplace opening, and sometimes from the roof, to ensure everything is cleared. Large “twig nests” built by rooks or jackdaws can be quite dense; we’ll patiently remove it bit by bit, keeping mess to a minimum with drop cloths and vacuums.
• Live Nest Protocol: If we discover an active bird’s nest with eggs or chicks, we will not remove it immediately. It’s actually illegal to destroy or disturb a live nest under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981. In this case, we’ll schedule to come back once the birds have fledged (usually after the nesting season, typically end of summer). We care about wildlife and comply fully with the law. If the nest is inactive (abandoned or from a past season), we proceed with removal.
• Animal Rescue: For situations like a trapped bird or animal, we take a humane approach. We’ll do our best to guide the creature out safely. Occasionally, we might work alongside wildlife rescue if needed. Your and the animal’s safety are our priority.
• Post-Removal Sweep: After clearing the blockage, we sweep the chimney thoroughly and perform a smoke test to make sure the flue is clear and drawing properly. You’ll then receive our standard sweeping certificate for insurance records and peace of mind, confirming your chimney is safe to use again.

Preventing Future Nests: Once the nest or blockage is gone, we can advise on preventive measures. Often the best solution is fitting a bird guard or chimney cowl to your chimney pot. This simple device keeps birds from entering and also keeps rain out. We can install one for you or recommend a type that suits your chimney.

Having a blocked chimney is stressful, you might notice debris falling into the fireplace, strange noises, or smoke not venting well. Don’t delay, as blockages can lead to dangerous CO buildup or chimney fires. If you need bird nest removal in Bury St Edmunds or nearby, call The Good Sweep at 01284 365010. We’re experienced in dealing with these situations quickly and professionally. Let us clear the way so you can enjoy your fireplace safely, with our friendly team on hand to help.