Chimney Sweep - How Often?

[MrsTwankey]

We had a multi fuel stove fitted a couple of years ago and I've just realised we've never had the chimney swept since. (it was swept just before installation)
How often should you have it done?

[Wingedharpy]

I've just looked in to this very thing as we have a coal-effect gas fire in our victorian hearth but the effect is somewhat ruined by a constant stream of muck and bullets falling down said chimney.
I have to say that we've lived here for years and have NEVER had the chimney swept!
The recommended timescale is approximately x 1 per year - but more often if you burn wood (Quarterly when in use).

[specialsubject]

at least once a year if you burn coal. They say more often for wood - depends how much tar you are generating, depends on the quality and dryness of the wood.

ignore it and you risk a chimney fire, and your insurers will probably ask when the chimney was last swept...

[OhPantsAllTheGoodNicksAreInUse]

My Dad was a chimney sweep, still is for people with coal, 1-2 times per year.

[Pascha]

Our household insurance states it must be swept a minimum of once a year for the policy to be valid. If the stove is only used in winter and not year round then once a year should be enough. My chimney sweep puts a recommendation on the jobsheet for when it should be done next.

[MrsTwankey]

Thanks for your replies.
Our lounge is always cold as it faces North and we've used it quite a lot not just in the cold months. Need to get it sorted as it sounds like a big risk.