Installation

1. UK Regulations and Compliance

Before installation, you must comply with:

  • Building Regulations (Approved Document J) – Governs the installation of stoves, flues, and chimneys.
  • DEFRA Compliance – If you live in a Smoke Control Area, you’ll need a DEFRA-approved stove to burn wood legally.
  • HETAS Certification – Using a HETAS-registered installer ensures compliance and provides a certificate for home insurance purposes.
  • At Norfolk Stoves, we help you find the perfect stove for your home and recommend trusted HETAS-registered installers in your area for safe, professional installation.
  • Visit our showroom to explore a wide range of wood-burning and multi-fuel stoves, discuss your heating needs, and get an estimated installation cost. Bringing photos of your room and property helps us provide tailored advice on stove options and placement.
  • Let us guide you through the process with expert recommendations and trusted installation services.

Options:

  • HETAS-registered installer: They can self-certify the installation.
  • DIY installation: You must notify your local council’s building control (Norfolk CNC Building Control) and obtain approval.

2. Choosing the Right Stove

When selecting a wood burner, consider:

  • Heat output: Measured in kW, suitable for room size (e.g., a 5kW stove for a 15-20m² room) Click here for our kW calculator .
  • Efficiency rating: Look for an Ecodesign Ready stove, as they meet 2022 environmental standards.
  • DEFRA-approved models: Required if you’re in a Smoke Control Area.

3. Placement and Clearance Requirements

  • Hearth requirements:
    • A non-combustible hearth extending at least 225mm in front and 150mm at the sides of the stove.
    • The hearth must be 12mm thick for stoves under 100°C or 50mm thick otherwise.
  • Wall clearances: Ensure sufficient gap between the stove and combustibles (manufacturer guidelines apply).
  • Ventilation: If the stove is over 5kW, additional air vents may be required in the room.

4. Flue and Chimney Installation

  • Flue height requirements: A minimum of 4.5 metres for effective draw.
  • Chimney liner: A 316 or 904 stainless steel liner is recommended for existing chimneys.
  • Twin-wall flue system: Required if no existing chimney is available.
  • Distance from combustibles: At least 50mm clearance from the Twin wall Double Insulated flue to combustible materials.
  • Chimney pot regulations: The flue should terminate at least 600mm above the roof ridge. (See doc J)

5. Installation Process

  1. Prepare the hearth – Ensure it’s properly installed and level.
  2. Install the stove pipe – Connect the stove to the flue or chimney liner.
  3. Fit the flue liner – If using a chimney, install a suitable liner with an insulation wrap.
  4. Seal the connections – Use heat-resistant sealants for airtight joints.
  5. Install a carbon monoxide (CO) detector – A legal requirement under UK regulations.
  6. Final inspection and test – Ensure no smoke leakage and proper draft.

6. Safety Measures

  • Install a carbon monoxide detector within 1-3 meters of the stove.
  • Maintain annual chimney sweeps to prevent creosote buildup.
  • Use only seasoned wood (20% moisture or lower) to reduce emissions and soot.

7. Cost Considerations

  • Stove purchase: £500 – £2,000+
  • Professional installation (HETAS-certified): £1,500 – £3,000
  • Chimney liner installation: £500 – £1,500
  • DIY installation (building control fee): £300+

8. Certification and Insurance

  • A HETAS certificate or building control approval is required to validate home insurance.
  • Failure to comply with regulations can result in fines and issues with property resale.