Bird Nest Removal in Bristol & Somerset

Safe, legal, and humane bird nest removal services across the South West.

If you’ve discovered a bird’s nest in your chimney, roof space, or air vents, you’re not alone.

In Bristol and across Somerset, bird nests are a common seasonal issue — but removing one isn’t as simple as it sounds.

At The Sweeping Company, we offer safe, compliant, and professional bird nest removal services tailored to your property.

Why you shouldn’t remove a bird nest yourself

Removing a bird nest without proper knowledge can lead to hefty fines, serious damage, and even harm to protected wildlife.

Here’s why it pays to call in the experts:

• Legal protections: Many birds and their nests are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Removing an active nest is illegal.
• Chimney blockages: A nest in your chimney can prevent smoke and fumes from escaping — a major fire and carbon monoxide risk.
• Re-nesting: Without proper removal and prevention measures, birds often return year after year.

We’re fully trained in bird nest removal and prevention techniques and will always assess whether a nest is active before taking any action.

When can you legally remove a bird’s nest?

When the nest is empty, with no signs of a bird returning.

In the UK, bird nesting season typically runs from March to August.

During this period, most nests must be left undisturbed by law.

How we assess nest activity

Our team uses safe, non-invasive techniques to determine whether a nest is active.

If birds are still nesting, we’ll book a return visit after the nesting season ends.

If the nest is inactive or poses an immediate danger (such as blocking a chimney flue), we’ll take appropriate action.

Bird nest in your chimney? Here’s what to do:

• Do not light a fire: This could harm nesting birds and cause smoke to back up into your home.
• Avoid disturbing the area: Movement or noise can stress wildlife or cause mess inside your property.
• Contact a professional: We’ll advise on the safest next step for you and the birds.

Our bird nest removal process

Removing a bird’s nest safely and legally requires more than just the right tools — it takes expert knowledge and care.

Here’s how we handle each step, from inspection to prevention.

Step 1: Inspection and risk assessment

We begin with a detailed inspection of your property to identify the nest’s location, accessibility, and whether it’s currently active.

Step 2: Safe removal (if legal)

If the nest is inactive or causing a risk (e.g. smoke blockage), we use specialist tools to remove it safely and clean the area.

Step 3: Chimney and flue sweep (if needed)

Often, nests leave behind twigs, debris, and soot build-up.

We offer a full chimney sweep as part of our service to ensure your flue is clear and safe to use.

Step 4: Prevention measures

We fit chimney cowls, vent covers, and offer advice to prevent future nesting.

Our prevention work is discreet, effective, and long-lasting.

Why choose The Sweeping Company?

✅ Experienced and qualified team with years of chimney and vent expertise

✅ Fully compliant with UK wildlife protection laws

✅ Local, trusted service across Bristol, Bath, Somerset, and surrounding areas

✅ Quick response times and clear, upfront pricing

✅ Prevention options to stop nests from returning

More than just bird nest removal

We also offer:

• Home chimney sweeping
• Ductwork and ventilation cleaning
• Kitchen extract system cleaning
• HVAC system cleaning
• Fire damper installation
• Fire damper testing and certification
• CCTV chimney inspection
• Homebuyer chimney survey
• Chimney maintenance contracts
• Emergency chimney callouts

FAQs about bird nest removal

Is it illegal to remove a bird nest?

Yes — if the nest is active (eggs or chicks present), it is illegal to remove it under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. We always check before acting.

How do I know if there’s a bird nest in my chimney?

Common signs include chirping noises, twigs falling into the grate, or smoke not drawing properly. If you’re unsure, book an inspection.

Can birds come back after the nest is removed?

Yes — many birds will return to the same nesting site. That’s why we recommend fitting a chimney cowl or vent cover after removal.

How do I know if there’s a bird nest in my chimney?

Common signs include chirping noises, twigs falling into the grate, or smoke not drawing properly. If you’re unsure, book an inspection.

How much does bird nest removal cost?

The cost depends on the location and complexity of the removal. We offer competitive, transparent pricing and can provide a quote after a quick inspection.

Can a bird nest cause a chimney fire?

Yes. Dry twigs and nesting material can ignite if you light a fire below a blocked chimney. This is a serious fire hazard and one of the key reasons to act quickly if you suspect a nest.

What time of year is best for removing bird nests?

The best time is outside of nesting season, usually between September and February, when nests are no longer in use and legal to remove.

How long does bird nest removal take?

In most cases, it takes between 1–2 hours, including inspection, removal, and a full chimney sweep if needed. More complex cases may take longer.

Is there a smell after a bird’s nest is removed?

If the nest was old or partially decomposed, there may be a temporary musty smell. Our professional sweep will remove debris and help prevent lingering odours.