Is chimney sweeping mandatory when selling a property?
A little-known requirement that could derail a sale
When preparing to sell a property, most people focus on estimating the price, completing mandatory inspections, or staging the home. But one important question often arises at the last minute: Is chimney sweeping mandatory during a property sale? The answer is yesSince October 2023, this obligation has been regulated nationwide and can directly impact the validity or progress of the transaction. Here's what you need to know.
Why is chimney sweeping required before a property sale?
A legal obligation reinforced since 2023
Since décret n°2023-641 du 20 juillet 2023chimney sweeping has become a nationwide regulatory requirement when selling a property equipped with a smoke duct (fireplace, stove, wood boiler, etc.). This is in addition to any arrêtés municipaux ou préfectoraux that may impose specific frequencies.
The goal is clear:
-
Ensure the safety of future occupants
-
Reduce the risk of fire or carbon monoxide poisoning
-
Guarantee the proper functioning of combustion systems
Who is responsible for the chimney sweeping in a sale?
Owner-occupier
The owner-occupier is responsible for having the chimney swept before the sale. A valid sweeping certificate must be presented at the notary’s office.
Landlord
During the rental period, sweeping is usually the tenant’s responsibility. However, at the time of sale, the owner must provide an up-to-date certificate, even if the property is still rented.
In a co-ownership
In buildings with shared flues, the property management (syndic) handles collective ducts. Individual ducts are the responsibility of each owner or tenant, depending on usage.
The chimney sweeping certificate: an essential document
The chimney must be swept by a qualified professional, who will issue an official certificate. This document certifies the duct’s compliance and must be presented to the buyer.
What are the risks without a certificate?
-
Sale may be delayed or renegotiated
-
Insurance may refuse coverage in case of fire or poisoning
Ce qu’il faut retenir
| Sweeping before sale | Détail |
|---|---|
| Ramonage avant vente | Yes, mandatory (national decree + local regulations) |
| Certificate required | Yes, issued by a certified professional |
| Risks if missing | Fine, sale blockage or delay, disputes with buyer |
| Responsible party | Owner or landlord, property manager for shared ducts |
Looking for reliable chimney sweeps in Samoëns?
We recommend two professionals who work in and around Samoëns :ProRamonage in Morzine and Mont-Blanc Ramonage in Taninges. Book early, as appointments can be hard to get during peak seasons—especially in autumn.
Don’t let chimney sweeping jeopardize your sale
Before selling your property, make sure to have the smoke ducts cleaned and keep the official certificate. Not only is it a legal requirement, but it also shows your commitment to the safety of the future buyer. As a real estate agency, we support you through every step of the process, ensuring that nothing—not even an unswept chimney—gets in the way of your sale.