Skip to content
Browse TradespeopleSearch verified local tradespeopleFind by LocationExplore trades near any UK postcodeSnap and FixNewUpload a photo, get an instant diagnosisWhat's Wrong With My House?Guided diagnosis for common problemsLive MapSee what's happening near you right nowAsk a TradespersonNewGet free advice from professionals
Cost EstimatorGet price ranges for any jobTrade Price IndexAverage costs across all tradesCost LeaderboardsCheapest and priciest areas in the UKCompare CitiesSide-by-side pricing between townsHome Problem Guides267 common issues explainedPlanning PermissionCheck if your project needs approvalCost GuidesDetailed breakdowns by trade
How It WorksFor Tradespeople
List for FreeLog In
UrgentCommon in SepRecommended trade: Chimney Sweep

Smoke Coming Back Into Room

Smoke from the fire or stove blowing back into the room instead of going up the chimney.

What Is Causing This?

  • 1Chimney blocked by soot, debris, or a bird nest
  • 2Poor draw due to the room being too airtight
  • 3Downdraught caused by wind conditions or nearby tall structures

How Urgent Is This?

Urgent

This needs prompt attention. Delaying could cause further damage, safety risks, or significantly higher repair costs.

What Needs to Be Done

A chimney sweep will sweep the flue to clear any blockage, check the cowl and chimney pot, and advise on improving ventilation to the room or fitting an anti-downdraught cowl.

How Much Will It Cost?

£283 – £724

National average estimate

Labour: £183 – £447 | Materials: £100 – £277

Enter your postcode for a local price estimate

Prices are estimates based on typical UK rates. Actual costs depend on the specific issue, accessibility, and your location. All quotes from tradespeople on Tradesfolk are completely free.

Find a Chimney Sweep

Enter your postcode above to find local chimney sweeps, or browse all chimney sweeps.

Find a Chimney Sweep

Want a More Accurate Diagnosis?

Upload a photo of the problem and our AI tool will give you a detailed diagnosis, estimated cost, and connect you with local tradespeople.

Try Snap and Fix

Still Not Sure? Ask a Tradesperson

Post your question and get free advice from verified professionals who deal with this every day.

Ask a Question

How to Prevent This

Have the chimney swept at least once a year. Fit a chimney cap or cowl to prevent bird nesting. Ensure the room has adequate ventilation when using an open fire.

Related Problems

Birds Nesting in Chimney

Birds have built a nest in the chimney, blocking the flue and causing noise, smell, or smoke issues.

Chimney Not Drawing Properly

The fire burns sluggishly with a poor draught, or the chimney does not pull smoke up effectively.

Carbon Monoxide Alarm Going Off

Your carbon monoxide detector is sounding, indicating potentially dangerous CO levels in the home.

Other Chimney Sweep Problems

Birds Nesting in Chimney

Birds have built a nest in the chimney, blocking the flue and causing noise, smell, or smoke issues.

Chimney Not Drawing Properly

The fire burns sluggishly with a poor draught, or the chimney does not pull smoke up effectively.

Soot Falling Into Fireplace

Lumps of soot or debris falling down the chimney into the fireplace, sometimes accompanied by a draught.

Strong Smell from Chimney

An unpleasant musty, smoky, or foul odour coming from the fireplace, especially in warm or humid weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes smoke coming back into room?
Chimney blocked by soot, debris, or a bird nest. Poor draw due to the room being too airtight. Downdraught caused by wind conditions or nearby tall structures.
Is smoke coming back into room serious?
This needs prompt attention. Delaying could cause further damage, safety risks, or significantly higher repair costs.
How much does it cost to fix smoke coming back into room?
Typical costs range from £283 to £724 depending on severity and location. Get a free quote from a local chimney sweep on Tradesfolk.
Chimney Sweep PricesCost EstimatorFind a Chimney SweepSnap and FixAll Home Problems