01223 939999
Copyright © 2015 National Chimney Investigations
National Chimney Investigations
“The driving force behind safe chimneys”
National Chimney Investigations recognise that not all combustion appliance, masonry and metal fabricated chimneys and
sectional flue systems are installed correctly or in accordance with relevant sections of the Building Act.
Many do not meet either minimum statutory compliance or consumer safety requirements and many remain uncertificated and
unregistered, thus creating potential fire risk issues, problems when re-insuring and selling a property and making a
successful fire related insurance claim potentially impossible.
National Chimney Investigations provide a wide range of professional inspection and specialist expert evaluation of
combustion appliance installations, workmanship, domestic smoke nuisance issues and regulatory competence necessary to
meet national chimney safety standards throughout the UK.
NCI are registering increasing levels of smoke nuisance cases and consequently the issuing of environmental health
enforcement notices. The use of test evaluation equipment and appropriate inspection and investigation processes could
easily resolve difficult or insurmountable smoke related issues.
If you are in receipt of an abatement / enforcement notice or concerned with any element of a chimney or flue system,
dangerous masonry structure, non-compliant installation, domestic fire risk or safety issue, contact our technical chimney
investigation and inspection helpline.
“Our sensitive and technically expert approach to conservation, heritage, and environmental
projects make National Chimney Investigations the obvious choice for both consumer and
professional.”
Professional chimney engineering & flue system solutions
•
Enforcing Compliance
•
Entry Level Training (NVQ Standard)
•
Smoke Nuisance Investigation
•
Forensic Investigation
•
Expert Mechanical Reports
•
Chimney Consultants
•
Safety & Fire Risk Evaluation
•
Installation Safety Inspection
01223 939999
Copyright © 2015 National Chimney Investigations
National Chimney
Investigations
“The driving force behind safe chimneys”
The Society for the
Protection of
Ancient Buildings
Appliance Installation / Modular Training / Chimney Construction
National
Chimney
Investigations
recognise
that
not
all
combustion
appliances,
masonry
and
metal
fabricated
chimneys
and
sectional
flue
systems
are
installed
correctly
or
in accordance with relevant sections of the Building Act.
Many do not meet either minimum statutory compliance or
consumer safety requirements and many remain uncertificated
and unregistered, thus creating potential fire risk issues,
problems when re-insuring and selling a property and making a
successful fire related insurance claim potentially impossible.
Our sensitive and technically expert approach to
conservation, heritage, and environmental projects
make National Chimney Investigations the natural
choice for both consumer and professional.
National Chimney Investigations provide a wide range of
professional inspection and specialist litigation services
evaluating combustion appliance installations, workmanship,
and competence necessary to meet national chimney safety
standards throughout the UK.
If you are concerned with any element of your chimney and flue
system or require technical chimney services, investigation and
inspection, NCI is only a phone call away.
01223 939999
National Chimney Investigations
Copyright © 2015 National Chimney Investigations
“The driving force behind safe chimneys”
Investigation and Inspection
Safety and Compliance
Mediation and Resolution
Appliance to Chimney System Compatibility
Pre-House Purchase Inspection
Masonry Chimney and Flue Inspection
Chimney Lining Systems
Diagnostic Investigation and Inspection
Listed Building Consent
Landlord Compliancy
Fire Risk and Damage Assessment
Chimney System Design
Building Services Support
Structural Inspections
Refurbishment and Construction
Contractual Documentation
Planned Servicing and Maintenance
Chimney Consultation Services
Consultancy
Residential Services
National Chimney Investigations provide a wide range of residential services to ensure the safety and compliance of your chimney and flue system. Please select a service to find out more.
Professional chimney engineering & flue system solutions
Investigation and Inspection
At home or at work all of us expect to enjoy a fire
that is both safe to operate as well as compliantly
installed. Not all such installations will offer this level
of comfort with many far from competently and
compliantly installed. Not all such appliances are
connected to structurally sound or ‘fit for purpose’
chimney systems.
Many of the 24 million homes in the UK today will have original working masonry chimneys and flue systems and chimney stacks that have not been properly maintained or inspected to prove they are safe and that they meet minimum consumer safety. Proportionate numbers of specialist metal chimney systems fail to work for a similar number of technical as well as atmospheric reasons and may also represent safety as well as structural problems. NCI investigate a wide range of non-compliant workmanship issues and installation procedure failures identifying defective flues, chimneys, gas, oil and solid fuel (wood & coal burning) appliances as well as any associated component and where these do not meet compliance or minimum consumer safety. Chimneys and the flue systems that serve them may have been incorrectly designed and built or just poorly repaired, any such structure or controlled environment at risk should be properly investigated and inspected before any further use is considered. In-depth mechanical inspection reports are prepared on request to support non-compliance and safety issues and where strategic failure has occurred. Once liability has been confirmed we will work with those concerned to achieve resolution and an acceptable rectification programme.![[x]](index_htm_files/close.png "Close")
Diagnostic Investigation and Inspection
Because chimneys and flue systems tend to be mostly ‘out of sight’ warning signs that something is wrong can often be misinterpreted or completely overlooked with disastrous consequences. There are many reasons why a masonry chimney may be considered defective or just dangerous, this also applies to internal flue system components. External weathering, vibration, movement and lack of any maintenance over many years can wreak havoc on poorly constructed and sub-standard chimneys. Some forms of chimney construction have been proven to be both structurally weak as well as poorly designed for their use. Structurally unsound chimneys as well as chimney pots continue to be repaired, re-pointed and reinstated as if this were enough to guarantee long term structural stability. Millions of consumers waste countless thousands of pounds on non-structural re-pointing, this cannot be construed as anything more than just a short term but expensive ‘fix’ when a more competent ‘belt & braces approach may be a more productive option. NCI are technically and structurally competent chimney engineers first and foremost, recognising through the use of High-Tec diagnostic equipment and proper mechanical and technical interpretation if inherent faults or defects are likely to cause long term safety or operation as well as structural integrity issues. Recognising a chimney structure could be a lethal environment for the user / operator at home or in a public place it is essential that chimneys, flues, and appliances are inspected regularly.
Safety and Compliance
Any gas, oil or solid fuel appliance must be properly installed by a relevant competent person belonging to either GAS SAFE, OFTEC or HETAS, although none of these CPS schemes refer to any required technical expertise within the field of masonry chimneys and structural flue systems. Compliant certification is a legal requirement no matter what type of appliance is installed and is therfore onerous upon the installer / company to provide this, failure to do so is a breach of the ‘Building Act’ and potentially an offence. An existing chimney either masonry or metal is according to the Building Act a ‘Controlled Environment’ any installation or alteration to this specific area may attract conservation, heritage or listed building consent before any work is allowed to commence. NCI negotiate and liaise with LABC authorities, conservation and heritage officers across the UK where quantifiable programmes of work and approved component use are a pre-requisite, NCI endeavours to create a seamless route for its clientele from inception to completion no matter what the requirement.
Mediation and Resolution
Human nature and our capacity to sometimes misinterpret what is being said to us as well as giving ‘wrong signals’ can be the cause of upset and confrontation, there may be occasions when personalities alone are enough to cause discord for instance between a consumer and contractor, there may of course be a number of other valid reasons why parties feel aggrieved, however, such scenarios are entirely avoidable and ultimately resolvable. More often than not when properly analysed disagreements between parties can be attributed to either basic misinterpretation or just the result of poor information and communication and this is evident on a daily basis in every walk of life. Where agreement cannot be reached, NCI offer professionals and consumers a route to mediation and final resolution providing palatable options to all concerned in a calm and professional manner.
Appliance to Chimney System Compatibility
NCI regularly investigates and inspects occurrences where combustion appliances are regularly installed into non-compatible environments such as defective masonry chimneys as well as worn out and defective flue systems. Incorrect flue to component and appliance sizing are potentially a lethal mixture, will not meet any compliant or minimum consumer safety requirement and must be considered where identifiable a ‘dangerous environment’ NCI understands the technical and fire safety relationship between approved component and appliance use and where these products are connected to a masonry or metal flue system. NCI is a ‘One stop Shop’ providing both professionals and the consumer a bespoke design and component resource service with a guaranteed supply route. Proper calculation of flue system components, compliant workmanship and proper flue dimension to appliance kilowatt output allows for a safe environment and safe user operation.
Pre-House Purchase Inspection
Structural masonry chimneys and mechanical flue systems, fireplaces and combustion appliances are rarely referred to by estate agents within their sales documentation. That beautiful inglenook fireplace that’s itching to be used may in real terms cost many thousands of pounds to bring back into safe use, the flue system may have inherent structural or masonry defects and with roof timbers poorly fire protected. NCI recognise that building surveyors as well as structural engineers cannot provide house purchasers with the necessary levels information or comfort with regard to technical chimney engineering expertise. Buying a property is commonly referred to as the single most stressful and expensive undertaking anyone is ever likely to make in their lifetime, subsequently, re-using existing fireplaces, fires, structural chimneys and flue systems should not be taken lightly before a competent and technically coherent pre-purchase report is provided. NCI can provide a cost effective route to complete peace of mind allowing you to budget sensibly and to plan for the roaring fire you want, compliantly and in complete safety.
Masonry Chimney and Flue Inspection
Stoves, fireplaces and gas fires continue to be installed and connected to defective masonry chimneys and non-compliant and un-safe flue systems, these environments exist without a specified maintenance programme or an acknowledgement that safety may be jeopardised. For the lay person with an untrained eye a ‘street view’ perspective of a masonry chimney stack that appears to ‘still be standing up’ cannot be considered as a structurally sound or a safe environment for use with any combustion appliance until a technically competent inspection report has been provided and a qualified assessment arrived at. NCI provide an in-depth pre installation and post inspection platform for professionals and consumers with a specific requirement for safety, installation, operation and design.
Chimney Lining Systems
According to the ’Building Act’ and in particular statutory ‘Document J’ and BS / EN directives all masonry chimneys and metal chimney systems are referred to as “controlled services / environment”. Any work to a controlled service / evnironment is notifiable work. Masonry chimneys in particular must be structurally sound before any type of re-lining is considered. NCI initially establish the structural integrity of both masonry chimney and flue system before a choice of lining material can be considered, this will reflect life span, ease of installation, safety, soot fire resistance, corrosion limitation, thermal-shock and cost of any associated component as well as any alteration necessary to accommodate and complete such work. Chimney lining and re-lining to a ‘controlled environment’ requires considerable levels of technical skill and knowledgeable interpretation. NCI have access to a register of competent (CPS) chimney engineers and technicians able to advise the professional and consumer with cost-effective and technically competent lining options.
Listed Building Consent
Many local authorities report that installation works and alterations are increasing on buildings of historical importance and those within the category grade 1 and grade 2 listed. Many tradesmen and building companies regularly undertake such work without any prior permission or consent having been granted or realising the importance of correct authorisation and the risks or penalties involved. In certain circumstances, and in particular where thatched roofs are concerned, any work carried out to or on a listed property without due consent will likely warrant the attention of local authority conservation. If a breach of the Building Act can be identified then the issue of an enforcement notice and possibly a heavy fine can be expected. The importance of properly interpreting statutory law, preparation of technically competent applications are significant elements to achieving successful project completion for the professional and the consumer. NCI specialise in obtaining successful local authority approvals within the commercial and domestic environment.
Landlord Compliancy
According to DCLG (Department for Communities & Local Government) in their Document Housing Health & Safety Rating (Guidance for Landlords & Property Related Professionals) it is a legal requirement for landlords to provide safe as well as operable chimneys and flue systems. It is a well-known fact that tenants can sometimes forget the fire risks involved when using an existing fireplace or wood/coal burning appliance, servicing and maintenance is also often overlooked as is the structural condition of masonry chimneys and flue systems. NCI provide a ‘Chimney & Fire Risk Inspection’ package for busy landlords where gas, oil and solid fuel / wood appliances are likely to be connected to controlled environments and where compliance and safety must be demonstrated. Follow up reports are generated utilising state of the art diagnostic equipment supported with expert technical chimney interpretation with any necessary recommendations outlined. Should tenants or landlords consider that they may be at risk and where a high level of technical competence and qualified risk assessment is required, NCI provide a working platform for professional and consumer to achieve compliance.
Fire Risk and Damage Assessment
Where fire risk assessment and technical safety is concerned no one can afford to be “under” prepared. NCI provide in-depth site inspections with fire risk recommendations throughout the inspection process, reporting on possible fire related issues, investigation of fires involving chimneys, flues and vents. Fire related chimney and flue system failure in the home continues to be overlooked, these areas rarely attract any safety based attention. Fire damage claims have soared over the past few years with insurers now holding any insured party liable for proven negligence. Sadly house fires do account for a large percentage of domestic insurance claims with commercial property way behind. Where fire related damage has occurred NCI incident inspectors are on hand to fully support the professional and consumer working with the various different agencies and through the somewhat difficult and at times nightmarish administrative process towards satisfactory closure and financial recompense. The NCI fire risk assessment programme assures that professionals and consumers receive expert technical as well as safety driven advice.
Chimney System Design
NCI bring a wealth of knowledge to this highly skilled area of technical chimney design. An understanding of component manufacturing, statutory procedures, chimney system erection principals and relative material resourcing provides a superb platform for the professional and consumer to launch any chimney system project in confidence. Pre-installation design programmes, component compatibility, thermo-dynamic operational principals and statutory compliance is achieved without the headache of having to employ different trades and therefore differing opinions and failure to deliver. NCI provide design capabilities for every different chimney system on the market today with an emphasis on compliance, consumer safety, environmental impact, structural viability, KW heat to room equivalent and aesthetic approval. Chimney systems are controlled environments according to the Building Act, therefore a sensitive and technically knowledgeable approach must be employed.
Building Services Support
NCI realise that professionals and consumers do not want to have various un-supervised tradesmen undertaking elements of their project with of course no one individual accepting liability, not only does this method of controlling on-site personnel become tedious it is also non-productive and in the worst case scenario may lead to lengthy litigation. Over many years NCI have built up a register of highly trained, highly skilled chimney technicians and artisans able to demonstrate expert knowledge in technical chimney engineering and associated building services. NCI can provide on application a complete installation and building services package a virtual ‘one stop shop’. Technical chimney and appliance commissioning is undertaken for gas, oil and solid fuel installation projects or where planned serving and maintenance is required. NCI endeavours to alleviate the stress and worry often attributed to this type of project from the busy professional and consumer thus allowing both to retain complete control.
Structural Inspections
NCI consider structural failures and issues within a domestic or commercial chimney system or mechanical flue shaft unacceptable and a considerable fire and safety risk. Where such faults and defects are identified our registered chimney engineers are able to react speedily targeting any suspect area carrying out immediate remedial repairs and then to recommend if re-lining is required, with relevant components and materials. Structural masonry inspections and investigations of existing chimney structures require the attention of highly skilled technical experts, proper interpretation and visual mapping are a number of ways of meeting such requirements.
Refurbishment and Construction
All NCI registered chimney engineers are able to undertake considerable levels of refurbishment, remedial repair, rectification and compliant installation work on masonry chimneys, rigid and flexible metal chimney / flue systems and the installation of thermal setting and cast concrete flue materials. Traditional masonry chimneys continue to be constructed and connected to entirely wrong appliances. NCI recognise this is due to the lack of any mechanical understanding between flue system construction and heat producing appliances. Differences in fuels and little if any knowledge of flue system design and chimney construction can often lead to appliances, chimneys and flues failing to work as expected. NCI have recognised over many years that most chimneys and flue systems are inappropriate for their use and that incorrect appliances continue to be installed with little if any thought process being employed. NCI follow a regime of technical pre-refurbishment inspection and reporting, guiding professionals and consumers with appropriate methods of construction based on our expert understanding of gas, oil and solid fuel appliance use, chimney flue system and operation.
Contractual Documentation
These days the consumer is likely to be more interested in saving money on a home improvement scheme than considering fire risks and their own safety, most home owners never look beyond the roof and it would appear consider the chimney structure to take care of itself, a much maligned idea. Ignoring fire and safety issues or employing non- qualified personnel to undertake work on a controlled environment is taking a rather dangerous risk, the same could be applied to non-qualified personnel carrying out similar work without any Public Liability or Professional Indemnity. NCI undertake considerable investigative work on behalf of both the professional and the consumer when consumer rights have been breached and clarity is required. NCI undertake contractual investigations and where professional errors have occurred endeavour to reach suitable resolution. Our contracts team can on request offer document preparation services and advise how best to approach any site based work where both the professional and consumer require adequate, understandable and acceptable contractual documentation.
Planned Servicing and Maintenance
NCI receive many calls asking for clarity with regard to servicing and maintenance of appliances, every manufacturer will advise of minimum specific service requirements and this advice should be adhered to. Many gas, oil and solid fuel appliance users fail to understand the importance of regular serving and maintenance of their appliances and of course the flue systems that serve them, failure to properly maintain an appliance or to continue to use an appliance with inherent faults connected to a potentially defective flue shaft is a catastrophe waiting to happen. Regular servicing of both appliances and flues as well as chimney systems guarantee minimum levels of user safety, planned maintenance by a qualified chimney engineer will also highlight any masonry or metal defect supported in writing with a ‘Flue Worthiness’ certificate. The certificate of worthiness will report on any defect and where this may be identified as either dangerous or advisory, as well as pinpointing any remedial repairs necessary to bring the structure in question back into an acceptable, compliant, stable and usable condition.
Chimney Consultation Services
NCI recognise that many chimney systems of varying design are available to purchase with almost all of these systems requiring some method of fixing together. Flexible lining systems as well as thermal-setting alternatives all have their own peculiarities, many of these systems are installed incorrectly and unneccesarily where incorrect advise is given. Brick built chimney structures are still being erected with sectional flue liners either fitted upside down or out of alignment, both scenarios are of course completely unacceptable in relation to statutory and BS/ EN requirements. The National Chimney Consultation Service provides professionals and consumers alike with an investigative and technically driven chimney inspection service covering the following areas: • Technical construction layout & procedure • Safety& operational recommendations • Pre and Post alteration and installation non conformity • Defect recognition • Statutory and compliant liability • Building regulations and H&S aspects • Design interfacing • Structural erection • Chimney system planning • Safety and fire risk assessment • Environmental awareness
Consultancy
NCI regularly act on behalf of and represent a diverse element of clientele and consumer from every walk of domestic and commercial life, our consultancy services cover every aspect and area of technical chimney engineering, project management, investigation and resolution. NCI provide expert technical advice, technical and mechanical reporting, pre & post installation failure investigation, defect recognition of non-compliant work, BSEN best practices, statutory interpretation and required compliance, consumer law, fire risk and damage limitation, domestic building safety, Health & Safety aspects, approved component resourcing, injury claim investigation, appliance and chimney system installation inspections, administration analysis, defect recognition, interpreting flue system integrity and acceptable contractual documentation.
01223 939999
National Chimney
Investigations
Copyright © 2015 National Chimney Investigations
“The driving force behind safe chimneys”
Appliance Installation / Modular Training / Chimney Construction
Investigation and Inspection
Safety and Compliance
Mediation and Resolution
Appliance to Chimney System Compatibility
Pre-House Purchase Inspection
Masonry Chimney and Flue Inspection
Chimney Lining Systems
Diagnostic Investigation and Inspection
Listed Building Consent
Landlord Compliancy
Fire Risk and Damage Assessment
Chimney System Design
Building Services Support
Structural Inspections
Refurbishment and Construction
Contractual Documentation
Planned Servicing and Maintenance
Chimney Consultation Services
Consultancy
Residential Services
National Chimney Investigations provide a wide range of residential services to ensure the safety and compliance of your chimney and flue system. Please select a service to find out more.
Investigation and Inspection
At home or at work all of us expect to enjoy a fire that is both
safe to operate as well as compliantly installed. Not all such
installations will offer this level of comfort with many far from
competently and compliantly installed. Not all such
appliances are connected to structurally sound or ‘fit for
purpose’ chimney systems.
Many of the 24 million homes in the UK today will have original working masonry chimneys and flue systems and chimney stacks that have not been properly maintained or inspected to prove they are safe and that they meet minimum consumer safety. Proportionate numbers of specialist metal chimney systems fail to work for a similar number of technical as well as atmospheric reasons and may also represent safety as well as structural problems. NCI investigate a wide range of non-compliant workmanship issues and installation procedure failures identifying defective flues, chimneys, gas, oil and solid fuel (wood & coal burning) appliances as well as any associated component and where these do not meet compliance or minimum consumer safety. Chimneys and the flue systems that serve them may have been incorrectly designed and built or just poorly repaired, any such structure or controlled environment at risk should be properly investigated and inspected before any further use is considered. In-depth mechanical inspection reports are prepared on request to support non-compliance and safety issues and where strategic failure has occurred. Once liability has been confirmed we will work with those concerned to achieve resolution and an acceptable rectification programme.
Diagnostic Investigation and Inspection
Because chimneys and flue systems tend to be mostly ‘out of sight’ warning signs that something is wrong can often be misinterpreted or completely overlooked with disastrous consequences. There are many reasons why a masonry chimney may be considered defective or just dangerous, this also applies to internal flue system components. External weathering, vibration, movement and lack of any maintenance over many years can wreak havoc on poorly constructed and sub- standard chimneys. Some forms of chimney construction have been proven to be both structurally weak as well as poorly designed for their use. Structurally unsound chimneys as well as chimney pots continue to be repaired, re-pointed and reinstated as if this were enough to guarantee long term structural stability. Millions of consumers waste countless thousands of pounds on non-structural re-pointing, this cannot be construed as anything more than just a short term but expensive ‘fix’ when a more competent ‘belt & braces approach may be a more productive option. NCI are technically and structurally competent chimney engineers first and foremost, recognising through the use of High-Tec diagnostic equipment and proper mechanical and technical interpretation if inherent faults or defects are likely to cause long term safety or operation as well as structural integrity issues. Recognising a chimney structure could be a lethal environment for the user / operator at home or in a public place it is essential that chimneys, flues, and appliances are inspected regularly.
Safety and Compliance
Any gas, oil or solid fuel appliance must be properly installed by a relevant competent person belonging to either GAS SAFE, OFTEC or HETAS, although none of these CPS schemes refer to any required technical expertise within the field of masonry chimneys and structural flue systems. Compliant certification is a legal requirement no matter what type of appliance is installed and is therfore onerous upon the installer / company to provide this, failure to do so is a breach of the ‘Building Act’ and potentially an offence. An existing chimney either masonry or metal is according to the Building Act a ‘Controlled Environment’ any installation or alteration to this specific area may attract conservation, heritage or listed building consent before any work is allowed to commence. NCI negotiate and liaise with LABC authorities, conservation and heritage officers across the UK where quantifiable programmes of work and approved component use are a pre- requisite, NCI endeavours to create a seamless route for its clientele from inception to completion no matter what the requirement.
Mediation and Resolution
Human nature and our capacity to sometimes misinterpret what is being said to us as well as giving ‘wrong signals’ can be the cause of upset and confrontation, there may be occasions when personalities alone are enough to cause discord for instance between a consumer and contractor, there may of course be a number of other valid reasons why parties feel aggrieved, however, such scenarios are entirely avoidable and ultimately resolvable. More often than not when properly analysed disagreements between parties can be attributed to either basic misinterpretation or just the result of poor information and communication and this is evident on a daily basis in every walk of life. Where agreement cannot be reached, NCI offer professionals and consumers a route to mediation and final resolution providing palatable options to all concerned in a calm and professional manner.
Appliance to Chimney System Compatibility
NCI regularly investigates and inspects occurrences where combustion appliances are regularly installed into non- compatible environments such as defective masonry chimneys as well as worn out and defective flue systems. Incorrect flue to component and appliance sizing are potentially a lethal mixture, will not meet any compliant or minimum consumer safety requirement and must be considered where identifiable a ‘dangerous environment’ NCI understands the technical and fire safety relationship between approved component and appliance use and where these products are connected to a masonry or metal flue system. NCI is a ‘One stop Shop’ providing both professionals and the consumer a bespoke design and component resource service with a guaranteed supply route. Proper calculation of flue system components, compliant workmanship and proper flue dimension to appliance kilowatt output allows for a safe environment and safe user operation.
Pre-House Purchase Inspection
Structural masonry chimneys and mechanical flue systems, fireplaces and combustion appliances are rarely referred to by estate agents within their sales documentation. That beautiful inglenook fireplace that’s itching to be used may in real terms cost many thousands of pounds to bring back into safe use, the flue system may have inherent structural or masonry defects and with roof timbers poorly fire protected. NCI recognise that building surveyors as well as structural engineers cannot provide house purchasers with the necessary levels information or comfort with regard to technical chimney engineering expertise. Buying a property is commonly referred to as the single most stressful and expensive undertaking anyone is ever likely to make in their lifetime, subsequently, re-using existing fireplaces, fires, structural chimneys and flue systems should not be taken lightly before a competent and technically coherent pre-purchase report is provided. NCI can provide a cost effective route to complete peace of mind allowing you to budget sensibly and to plan for the roaring fire you want, compliantly and in complete safety.
Masonry Chimney and Flue Inspection
Stoves, fireplaces and gas fires continue to be installed and connected to defective masonry chimneys and non-compliant and un-safe flue systems, these environments exist without a specified maintenance programme or an acknowledgement that safety may be jeopardised. For the lay person with an untrained eye a ‘street view’ perspective of a masonry chimney stack that appears to ‘still be standing up’ cannot be considered as a structurally sound or a safe environment for use with any combustion appliance until a technically competent inspection report has been provided and a qualified assessment arrived at. NCI provide an in-depth pre installation and post inspection platform for professionals and consumers with a specific requirement for safety, installation, operation and design.
Chimney Lining Systems
According to the ’Building Act’ and in particular statutory ‘Document J’ and BS / EN directives all masonry chimneys and metal chimney systems are referred to as “controlled services / environment”. Any work to a controlled service / evnironment is notifiable work. Masonry chimneys in particular must be structurally sound before any type of re- lining is considered. NCI initially establish the structural integrity of both masonry chimney and flue system before a choice of lining material can be considered, this will reflect life span, ease of installation, safety, soot fire resistance, corrosion limitation, thermal-shock and cost of any associated component as well as any alteration necessary to accommodate and complete such work. Chimney lining and re-lining to a ‘controlled environment’ requires considerable levels of technical skill and knowledgeable interpretation. NCI have access to a register of competent (CPS) chimney engineers and technicians able to advise the professional and consumer with cost-effective and technically competent lining options.
Listed Building Consent
Many local authorities report that installation works and alterations are increasing on buildings of historical importance and those within the category grade 1 and grade 2 listed. Many tradesmen and building companies regularly undertake such work without any prior permission or consent having been granted or realising the importance of correct authorisation and the risks or penalties involved. In certain circumstances, and in particular where thatched roofs are concerned, any work carried out to or on a listed property without due consent will likely warrant the attention of local authority conservation. If a breach of the Building Act can be identified then the issue of an enforcement notice and possibly a heavy fine can be expected. The importance of properly interpreting statutory law, preparation of technically competent applications are significant elements to achieving successful project completion for the professional and the consumer. NCI specialise in obtaining successful local authority approvals within the commercial and domestic environment.
Landlord Compliancy
According to DCLG (Department for Communities & Local Government) in their Document Housing Health & Safety Rating (Guidance for Landlords & Property Related Professionals) it is a legal requirement for landlords to provide safe as well as operable chimneys and flue systems. It is a well-known fact that tenants can sometimes forget the fire risks involved when using an existing fireplace or wood/coal burning appliance, servicing and maintenance is also often overlooked as is the structural condition of masonry chimneys and flue systems. NCI provide a ‘Chimney & Fire Risk Inspection’ package for busy landlords where gas, oil and solid fuel / wood appliances are likely to be connected to controlled environments and where compliance and safety must be demonstrated. Follow up reports are generated utilising state of the art diagnostic equipment supported with expert technical chimney interpretation with any necessary recommendations outlined. Should tenants or landlords consider that they may be at risk and where a high level of technical competence and qualified risk assessment is required, NCI provide a working platform for professional and consumer to achieve compliance.
Fire Risk and Damage Assessment
Where fire risk assessment and technical safety is concerned no one can afford to be “under” prepared. NCI provide in- depth site inspections with fire risk recommendations throughout the inspection process, reporting on possible fire related issues, investigation of fires involving chimneys, flues and vents. Fire related chimney and flue system failure in the home continues to be overlooked, these areas rarely attract any safety based attention. Fire damage claims have soared over the past few years with insurers now holding any insured party liable for proven negligence. Sadly house fires do account for a large percentage of domestic insurance claims with commercial property way behind. Where fire related damage has occurred NCI incident inspectors are on hand to fully support the professional and consumer working with the various different agencies and through the somewhat difficult and at times nightmarish administrative process towards satisfactory closure and financial recompense. The NCI fire risk assessment programme assures that professionals and consumers receive expert technical as well as safety driven advice.
Chimney System Design
NCI bring a wealth of knowledge to this highly skilled area of technical chimney design. An understanding of component manufacturing, statutory procedures, chimney system erection principals and relative material resourcing provides a superb platform for the professional and consumer to launch any chimney system project in confidence. Pre-installation design programmes, component compatibility, thermo-dynamic operational principals and statutory compliance is achieved without the headache of having to employ different trades and therefore differing opinions and failure to deliver. NCI provide design capabilities for every different chimney system on the market today with an emphasis on compliance, consumer safety, environmental impact, structural viability, KW heat to room equivalent and aesthetic approval. Chimney systems are controlled environments according to the Building Act, therefore a sensitive and technically knowledgeable approach must be employed.
Building Services Support
NCI realise that professionals and consumers do not want to have various un-supervised tradesmen undertaking elements of their project with of course no one individual accepting liability, not only does this method of controlling on-site personnel become tedious it is also non-productive and in the worst case scenario may lead to lengthy litigation. Over many years NCI have built up a register of highly trained, highly skilled chimney technicians and artisans able to demonstrate expert knowledge in technical chimney engineering and associated building services. NCI can provide on application a complete installation and building services package a virtual ‘one stop shop’. Technical chimney and appliance commissioning is undertaken for gas, oil and solid fuel installation projects or where planned serving and maintenance is required. NCI endeavours to alleviate the stress and worry often attributed to this type of project from the busy professional and consumer thus allowing both to retain complete control.
Structural Inspections
NCI consider structural failures and issues within a domestic or commercial chimney system or mechanical flue shaft unacceptable and a considerable fire and safety risk. Where such faults and defects are identified our registered chimney engineers are able to react speedily targeting any suspect area carrying out immediate remedial repairs and then to recommend if re-lining is required, with relevant components and materials. Structural masonry inspections and investigations of existing chimney structures require the attention of highly skilled technical experts, proper interpretation and visual mapping are a number of ways of meeting such requirements.
Refurbishment and Construction
All NCI registered chimney engineers are able to undertake considerable levels of refurbishment, remedial repair, rectification and compliant installation work on masonry chimneys, rigid and flexible metal chimney / flue systems and the installation of thermal setting and cast concrete flue materials. Traditional masonry chimneys continue to be constructed and connected to entirely wrong appliances. NCI recognise this is due to the lack of any mechanical understanding between flue system construction and heat producing appliances. Differences in fuels and little if any knowledge of flue system design and chimney construction can often lead to appliances, chimneys and flues failing to work as expected. NCI have recognised over many years that most chimneys and flue systems are inappropriate for their use and that incorrect appliances continue to be installed with little if any thought process being employed. NCI follow a regime of technical pre-refurbishment inspection and reporting, guiding professionals and consumers with appropriate methods of construction based on our expert understanding of gas, oil and solid fuel appliance use, chimney flue system and operation.
Contractual Documentation
These days the consumer is likely to be more interested in saving money on a home improvement scheme than considering fire risks and their own safety, most home owners never look beyond the roof and it would appear consider the chimney structure to take care of itself, a much maligned idea. Ignoring fire and safety issues or employing non-qualified personnel to undertake work on a controlled environment is taking a rather dangerous risk, the same could be applied to non-qualified personnel carrying out similar work without any Public Liability or Professional Indemnity. NCI undertake considerable investigative work on behalf of both the professional and the consumer when consumer rights have been breached and clarity is required. NCI undertake contractual investigations and where professional errors have occurred endeavour to reach suitable resolution. Our contracts team can on request offer document preparation services and advise how best to approach any site based work where both the professional and consumer require adequate, understandable and acceptable contractual documentation.
Planned Servicing and Maintenance
NCI receive many calls asking for clarity with regard to servicing and maintenance of appliances, every manufacturer will advise of minimum specific service requirements and this advice should be adhered to. Many gas, oil and solid fuel appliance users fail to understand the importance of regular serving and maintenance of their appliances and of course the flue systems that serve them, failure to properly maintain an appliance or to continue to use an appliance with inherent faults connected to a potentially defective flue shaft is a catastrophe waiting to happen. Regular servicing of both appliances and flues as well as chimney systems guarantee minimum levels of user safety, planned maintenance by a qualified chimney engineer will also highlight any masonry or metal defect supported in writing with a ‘Flue Worthiness’ certificate. The certificate of worthiness will report on any defect and where this may be identified as either dangerous or advisory, as well as pinpointing any remedial repairs necessary to bring the structure in question back into an acceptable, compliant, stable and usable condition.
Chimney Consultation Services
NCI recognise that many chimney systems of varying design are available to purchase with almost all of these systems requiring some method of fixing together. Flexible lining systems as well as thermal-setting alternatives all have their own peculiarities, many of these systems are installed incorrectly and unneccesarily where incorrect advise is given. Brick built chimney structures are still being erected with sectional flue liners either fitted upside down or out of alignment, both scenarios are of course completely unacceptable in relation to statutory and BS/ EN requirements. The National Chimney Consultation Service provides professionals and consumers alike with an investigative and technically driven chimney inspection service covering the following areas: • Technical construction layout & procedure • Safety& operational recommendations • Pre and Post alteration and installation non conformity • Defect recognition • Statutory and compliant liability • Building regulations and H&S aspects • Design interfacing • Structural erection • Chimney system planning • Safety and fire risk assessment • Environmental awareness
Consultancy
NCI regularly act on behalf of and represent a diverse element of clientele and consumer from every walk of domestic and commercial life, our consultancy services cover every aspect and area of technical chimney engineering, project management, investigation and resolution. NCI provide expert technical advice, technical and mechanical reporting, pre & post installation failure investigation, defect recognition of non-compliant work, BSEN best practices, statutory interpretation and required compliance, consumer law, fire risk and damage limitation, domestic building safety, Health & Safety aspects, approved component resourcing, injury claim investigation, appliance and chimney system installation inspections, administration analysis, defect recognition, interpreting flue system integrity and acceptable contractual documentation.
01223 939999
National Chimney Investigations
Copyright © 2015 National Chimney Investigations
“The driving force behind safe chimneys”
Installer Support
Fire Risk and Safety Guidance
Environmental Health
Artisan Skills
HSE at Work
BSEN Documentation
Basic Consumer Law
Defect Recognition
Conservation Pre-requisites
Modular Training
NCI offer targeted training modules specifically designed for those wishing to understand the basic mechanical and legal principals of: • Chimney / flue system design • Component compatibility • Maintaining, re-instating, erection and re-lining of 'Controlled Services' (structural masonry chimneys & metal chimney systems) within a domestic environment. Modules are approximately of one day duration and can be held at either our training centre or at an attendee's place of work.Personal Mentoring
"A mentor should have the qualities of experience, perspective and distance, challenging the mentee and using candor to force re-examination and reprioritisation without being a crutch". “A great mentor has a knack for making us think we are better than we think we are. They force us to have a positive opinion of ourselves, let us know they believe in us. They make us get more out of ourselves, and once we learn how good we really are, we never settle for anything less than our very best” NCI recognise the value of these qualities although the professionals able to deliver them are not so easily located. Our 'Shadow' system provides a route to achieve higher learning through thoughtful coaching leading to invaluable 'hands on' experience being gained within the domestic chimney engineering industry. NCI instructors will guide and assist those carrying out work on domestic based 'controlled service' projects to achieve acceptable levels of competance where mechanical experience, structural knowledge and an authoritative position is called for. NCI Mentoring services can be provided to anyone and anywhere where structural masonry and / or metal chimney systems are designed, installed, re-lined, erected and commissioned. The courses shown are just some of our 'essential training' packages tailored and available to professionals and installers.
Professional chimney engineering & flue system solutions
Installer Support
Documentary support and technical guidance with expert mechanical and legal interpretation of regulatory directives regarding work on or to a 'controlled service' Combustion appliance, approved installation techniques and methods.
Fire Risk and Safety Guidance
Production of client driven audit trails and how to undertake targeted fire risk and safety assesments on domestic high threat properties.
Environmental Health
Understanding the impact of weather conditions upon solid fuel appliance installation and operator use. How to avoid smoke nuisance issues, considering neighbouring properties, awareness of owner / occupier health issues, working with EH legislation.
Artisan Skills
• How and when to use HNL (Hydraulic Natural Lime) products • Working with lime and horse hair on historical buildings of importance, understanding the pre- requisite requirements regarding grade listed buildings and limitation of authority • How to apply for permission • How to replace wattle & daub in period flue systems • Setting out programmes and scopes of work • Planning for sensitive methods of defective material removal • How and when to employ low vibration power tool equipment.
HSE at Work
• How to protect the workplace, third party sub contractors and employees as well as your customers • Applying to the ‘working at height act' and non compliant penalties • HSE legislation
01223 939999
National Chimney
Investigations
Copyright © 2015 National Chimney Investigations
“The driving force behind safe chimneys”
Appliance Installation / Modular Training / Chimney Construction
Modular Training
NCI offer targeted training modules specifically designed for those wishing to understand the basic mechanical and legal principals of: • Chimney / flue system design • Component compatibility • Maintaining, re-instating, erection and re-lining of 'Controlled Services' (structural masonry chimneys & metal chimney systems) within a domestic environment. Modules are approximately of one day duration and can be held at either our training centre or at an attendee's place of work.Personal Mentoring
"A mentor should have the qualities of experience, perspective and distance, challenging the mentee and using candor to force re-examination and reprioritisation without being a crutch". “A great mentor has a knack for making us think we are better than we think we are. They force us to have a positive opinion of ourselves, let us know they believe in us. They make us get more out of ourselves, and once we learn how good we really are, we never settle for anything less than our very best” NCI recognise the value of these qualities although the professionals able to deliver them are not so easily located. Our 'Shadow' system provides a route to achieve higher learning through thoughtful coaching leading to invaluable 'hands on' experience being gained within the domestic chimney engineering industry. NCI instructors will guide and assist those carrying out work on domestic based 'controlled service' projects to achieve acceptable levels of competance where mechanical experience, structural knowledge and an authoritative position is called for. NCI Mentoring services can be provided to anyone and anywhere where structural masonry and / or metal chimney systems are designed, installed, re-lined, erected and commissioned. The courses shown are just some of our 'essential training' packages tailored and available to professionals and installers.
Installer Support
Fire Risk and Safety Guidance
Environmental Health
Artisan Skills
HSE at Work
BSEN Documentation
Basic Consumer Law
Defect Recognition
Conservation Pre-requisites
Installer Support
Documentary support and technical guidance with expert mechanical and legal interpretation of regulatory directives regarding work on or to a 'controlled service' Combustion appliance, approved installation techniques and methods.
Fire Risk and Safety Guidance
Production of client driven audit trails and how to undertake targeted fire risk and safety assesments on domestic high threat properties.
Artisan Skills
• How and when to use HNL (Hydraulic Natural Lime) products • Working with lime and horse hair on historical buildings of importance, understanding the pre- requisite requirements regarding grade listed buildings and limitation of authority • How to apply for permission • How to replace wattle & daub in period flue systems • Setting out programmes and scopes of work • Planning for sensitive methods of defective material removal • How and when to employ low vibration power tool equipment.
HSE at Work
• How to protect the workplace, third party sub contractors and employees as well as your customers • Applying to the ‘working at height act' and non compliant penalties • HSE legislation
01223 939999
National Chimney Investigations
Copyright © 2015 National Chimney Investigations
“The driving force behind safe chimneys”
NCI is an amalgamation of highly trained, highly skilled industry specialists who bring together over 165 years of
structural chimney engineering and building practice expertise gained within the domestic interior design, specialist
refurbishment and commercial re-development sectors.
As principal domestic and commercial chimney engineers NCI have built an enviable track record having carried out
many thousands of hours consultancy based investigations and inspections our expertise in this highly skilled area
of the Building Act is second to none.
NCI fully understand the difficulties faced by the consumer and professional alike when skilled artisans and
technically competent personnel are so few in number, many of the complaints we receive and the investigative
work we carry out continues to reflect very poor levels of industry compliance, workmanship, fire risk and safety.
Singularly or together these represent potential risk to the consumer.
NCI are committed to raising industry standards and consumer expectations from installers and fitters through to
operators and end users supported by NCI modular training programmes and through the NCI ‘ICE’ system
(Information, Communication & Education).
NCI continue to assist and support environmental health professionals across the U.K. where domestic smoke
nuisance issues are growing exponentially. Our investigative and evaluation methods, processes and techniques are
invaluable tools for the E.H. professional, helping to resolve difficult and sometimes insurmountable neighbour
disputes.
Our principle engineer, Howard Cane, through his role as technical director of the National Association of
Chimney Engineers (NACE), has developed a technically competent understanding with environmental health enforcement
teams by way of seminar and Q&A sessions which are widely available.
For the consumer and professional who want unquestionable levels of technical competence as well as their
projects undertaken by properly qualified and trained personnel, NCI are the only answer.
Professional chimney engineering & flue system solutions
Mission Statement
Reliability & Trust
NCI ensure that our customers are legally compliant, and we always give clear and justified reasons for our
recommendations in line with British Standards.
We will endeavor to deliver promises on time and with integrity
NCI offer a truly 24-7-365 service with immediate and speedy responses ensuring quality with compliance.
We undertake to provide a high-quality, high end targeted personal service, every time.
Environmental & Ethical
NCI undertake to offer energy saving advice relating to the use and operation of all types of combustion appliance
either in the home or office.
Our recommendations are intended to ensure that you comply with legal requirements.
Eco-friendly consultation and advice.
NCI is committed to protecting and enhancing local and national environments by ensuring that all of our operations
are carried out in a sustainable way. We take green responsibilities very seriously and are active in promoting
environmentally responsible business ethics.
NCI work closely with suppliers and manufacturers, end users and operators to achieve a high level of performance
against our Environmental and Sustainability Policy, with the aim of reducing our carbon footprint wherever possible.
Compliance with statutory Document J, Document L and Document 7 of the Building Regulations and the
requirements of the CIEH (Chartered Institute of Environmental Health) as well as many BS/EN directives ensure that
we meet the many regulatory requirements upon us that help to reduce the environmental impact of our business.
Partnership
NCI provide a single point-of-contact and are always prepared to listen to our clients no matter how difficult their
requests may be.
We offer tailor-made solutions where necessary.
Focused account management.
Tailor-made solutions.
Anticipate and fulfil all client needs.
Quality in Compliance
NCI provides high-quality inspection and investigation services.
We endeavour through correct enforcement to protect our customer’s lives and property.
Consumers and professionals are confident by choice they are in safe hands.
We endeavor to provide affordable quality.
We provide as standard a ‘first-class’ client service.
The documentation and advice issued will comply with relevant standards and statutory law.
01223 939999
National Chimney
Investigations
Copyright © 2015 National Chimney Investigations
“The driving force behind safe chimneys”
Appliance Installation / Modular Training / Chimney Construction
NCI is an amalgamation of highly trained, highly skilled
industry specialists who bring together over 165 years of
structural chimney engineering and building practice expertise
gained within the domestic interior design, specialist
refurbishment and commercial re-development sectors.
As principal domestic and commercial chimney engineers NCI
have built an enviable track record having carried out many
thousands of hours consultancy based investigations and
inspections our expertise in this highly skilled area of the
Building Act is second to none.
NCI fully understand the difficulties faced by the consumer and
professional alike when skilled artisans and technically
competent personnel are so few in number, many of the
complaints we receive and the investigative work we carry out
continues to reflect very poor levels of industry compliance,
workmanship, fire risk and safety. Singularly or together these
represent potential risk to the consumer.
NCI are committed to raising industry standards and consumer
expectations from installers and fitters through to operators
and end users supported by NCI modular training programmes
and through the NCI ‘ICE’ system (Information,
Communication & Education).
NCI continue to assist and support environmental health
professionals across the U.K. where domestic smoke
nuisance issues are growing exponentially. Our investigative
and evaluation methods, processes and techniques are
invaluable tools for the E.H. professional, helping to resolve
difficult and sometimes insurmountable neighbour disputes.
Our principle engineer, Howard Cane, through his role as
technical director of N.A.C.E (National Association of Chimney
Engineers) has developed a technically competent
understanding with environmental health enforcement teams
by way of seminar and Q&A sessions which are widely
available.
For the consumer and professional who want unquestionable
levels of technical
competence as well as their
projects undertaken by properly qualified and trained
personnel, NCI are the only answer.
Mission Statement
Reliability & Trust
NCI ensure that our customers are legally compliant, and we always
give clear and justified reasons for our recommendations in line with
British Standards.
We will endeavor to deliver promises on time and with integrity
NCI offer a truly 24-7-365 service with immediate and speedy
responses ensuring quality with compliance.
We undertake to provide a high-quality, high end targeted personal
service, every time.
Environmental & Ethical
NCI undertake to offer energy saving advice relating to the use and
operation of all types of combustion appliance either in the home or
office.
Our recommendations are intended to ensure that you comply with
legal requirements.
Eco-friendly consultation and advice.
NCI is committed to protecting and enhancing local and national
environments by ensuring that all of our operations are carried out in a
sustainable way. We take green responsibilities very seriously and are
active in promoting environmentally responsible business ethics.
NCI work closely with suppliers and manufacturers, end users and
operators to achieve a high level of performance against our
Environmental and Sustainability Policy, with the aim of reducing our
carbon footprint wherever possible.
Compliance with statutory Document J, Document L and Document 7 of
the Building Regulations and the requirements of the CIEH (Chartered
Institute of Environmental Health) as well as many BS/EN directives
ensure that we meet the many regulatory requirements upon us that
help to reduce the environmental impact of our business.
Partnership
NCI provide a single point-of-contact and are always prepared to listen
to our clients no matter how difficult their requests may be.
We offer tailor-made solutions where necessary.
Focused account management.
Tailor-made solutions.
Anticipate and fulfil all client needs.
Quality in Compliance
NCI provides high-quality inspection and investigation services.
We endeavour through correct enforcement to protect our customer’s
lives and property.
Consumers and professionals are confident by choice they are in safe
hands.
We endeavor to provide affordable quality.
We provide as standard a ‘first-class’ client service.
The documentation and advice issued will comply with relevant
standards and statutory law.
01223 939999
National Chimney Investigations
Copyright © 2015 National Chimney Investigations
“The driving force behind safe chimneys”
Address:
National Chimney Investigations
59 Millfield Road
Barningham
Bury St Edmunds
Suffolk
IP31 1DX
Office:
01223 939999
Email:
info@nci.services
Please contact us by email or telephone, or
alternatively fill in the contact form and we
will contact you as soon as possible.
Professional chimney engineering & flue system solutions
01223 939999
National Chimney
Investigations
Copyright © 2015 National Chimney Investigations
“The driving force behind safe chimneys”
Address:
National Chimney Investigations
59 Millfield Road
Barningham
Busy St Edmunds
Suffolk
IP31 1DX
Office:
01223 939999
Email:
info@nci.services
Please contact us by email or telephone, or alternatively fill in
the contact form and we will contact you as soon as possible.
Appliance Installation / Modular Training / Chimney Construction