A well designed fireplace can completely change the feel of a London home. It can restore lost character in a Victorian terrace, create a focal point in a modern apartment or simply give your living room that cosy, welcoming atmosphere everyone loves. At HICL Builders, based in Kingston and New Malden and working across South West London, we bring together all aspects of domestic construction to deliver beautiful, safe and practical fireplace projects as part of wider home improvements.

Director Andi Drishti has nearly twenty years of hands on building experience, City and Guilds certification and a particular talent for reading structural plans and spotting smart solutions that others miss. He is supported by office manager Debra, who keeps projects organised and communication clear from the first enquiry through to final sign off. You can meet them in a short point of view video on Instagram, where they welcome a client into the office and show the warm, family run atmosphere at the heart of HICL Builders.

Watch the video here.

Because HICL is a turnkey construction company, you deal with one team that coordinates skilled builders, carpenters, bricklayers, roofers, plumbers, NICEIC electricians, plasterers and decorators. That means your fireplace installation sits within a complete plan of works, with a detailed quote, schedule and a clear promise about what will happen and when. This article is published in partnership with Merx Marketing, who help share HICL’s expertise with London homeowners.

Why and How to Reopen or Install Fireplaces in London Homes

For many London properties, the original fireplaces have been bricked up or removed entirely. Reinstating them can bring back period charm, improve the proportion of a room and even support the future value of the home. In more modern properties, a new fireplace can anchor an open plan living, kitchen and dining space, creating a natural place for people to gather, relax and socialise.

The most successful fireplace projects are planned as part of a wider refurbishment, extension or reconfiguration. For example, HICL recently delivered a three week kitchen and living room refurbishment for a growing family, with a carefully coordinated schedule that managed every trade, delivery and inspection without ever cutting corners. You can read more about that project here: An efficient kitchen and living room refurbishment for a growing family. The same structured approach is used when fireplaces are involved, so flooring, lighting, heating, joinery and decoration work together as one coherent design.

Safety, Structure, and Chimney Checks

Before any bricks are removed or any new fireplace is ordered, HICL carries out a thorough site survey. This looks at the existing chimney breast or proposed fireplace wall, checks for historic alterations, identifies any blocked openings and reviews the general condition of the structure. If lintels are missing or undersized, or if there are signs of movement, a suitable structural support will be specified and, where necessary, a structural engineer will be involved.

The flue route and chimney stack are then considered. It is important to understand whether the flue is clear, sound and suitable for the type of fire you want to install. External chimney pots, flashings and brickwork are also checked, as defects here often show up as damp patches or staining inside. In London, building regulations, lease conditions and sometimes party wall matters can apply, especially in flats and converted properties. HICL guides homeowners through these requirements so nothing comes as a surprise.

If you are not sure what to ask at this stage, HICL’s own guide, What you did not know to ask your builder: 7 overlooked but essential questions, is an excellent starting point.

Designing Your Feature Fireplace and Surround

Once the technical groundwork is understood, the focus turns to design. Some London homeowners want to restore original cast iron inserts and tiled hearths to their former glory. Others prefer a clean, contemporary opening with a simple stone or timber surround. HICL works closely with you to select materials, proportions and details that feel right for your home and your lifestyle.

Because the team includes skilled carpenters and joiners, HICL can also design and build bespoke alcove units, shelving and media walls that frame the fireplace and maximise space. Hearth tiles or slabs are chosen to work with existing or new flooring and skirting, so the fireplace feels built in rather than added on. At this stage you will also decide whether the fireplace will be used with solid fuel, gas, electric, or as a purely decorative feature. This decision shapes clearances, flue linings, services and ventilation, which HICL’s qualified trades then install to a high standard.

Fireplace Maintenance, Safety and Next Steps

A new or reopened fireplace is a long term feature, so safety and maintenance are just as important as good design. Before any working fire is used, the flue should be swept and checked by a suitable professional. If you burn wood or multi fuel, regular sweeping is recommended to maintain safe draw and reduce the risk of soot or tar build up.

Every room with a fireplace should have correctly placed smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, tested monthly and replaced in line with manufacturer guidance. Simple habits, such as using a proper fireguard, storing fuel safely and never blocking off air vents, all help keep your home safe and comfortable.

HICL backs its structural work with a five year guarantee and provides dedicated customer service throughout the project. Any questions or concerns before, during or after the build are dealt with promptly, and a clear schedule of works helps you plan around day to day life. Free, no obligation quotes and access to trade discounts on finishes complete the picture, making HICL a trusted choice for London homeowners.

FAQs

How much does it cost to install or reopen a fireplace in London?

Costs vary depending on the condition of the existing chimney, the scale of structural work and the level of finish you are looking for. At the lower end, opening up a previously blocked fireplace and making good with simple finishes is relatively budget friendly.

If you need new lintels, full flue lining, bespoke hearths, quality tiles, custom joinery and complete room redecoration, investment will be higher but the result is a fully integrated feature that enhances the whole space. When a fireplace forms part of a larger refurbishment or extension, economies of scale often apply because trades are already on site. HICL provides tiered proposals, so you can choose between straightforward reinstatement, mid level restoration or a full feature redesign.

Do I need permission or surveys before installing a fireplace?

An initial survey is essential before any fireplace work begins. This allows HICL to identify structural issues, flue defects, damp or regulatory constraints and to plan the project accordingly. Building regulations usually apply to changes in flues, hearth sizes and structural supports, and these are built into the specification and sequence of works.

In London, lease conditions can restrict what you do to chimney breasts and external stacks in flats and maisonettes. In conservation areas or listed buildings, there may be extra steps and approvals. Using HICL’s questions to ask your builder as a checklist will help you feel confident that safety, permissions, guarantees and service standards are all covered before you proceed.

If you are considering a fireplace installation or reopening as part of a wider home improvement project, you can contact HICL Builders for a friendly conversation and a free, no obligation quote.

Get a free quote  Email  office@hiclbuilders.com