WETT Inspections

What is a WETT Inspection?

A WETT inspection includes an evaluation of all wood burning appliances such as stoves and open fireplaces, by a certified WETT inspector.

A WETT inspection can give you the peace of mind you need when buying or selling a home, living in a home, and can also be a requirement when securing insurance.

Why Would I Need a WETT Inspection?

An inspection for the wood burning technologies in your home is important for a number of reasons. With wood burning appliances, the potential for harmful pollutants to be released into your home as well as combustible materials to ignite is increased, so it is important that these appliances are regularly inspected and properly maintained. If you have a home that already includes one of these features, or you would like to purchase one and have it installed in your home, having a WETT certified inspector or technician involved is necessary.

WETT inspections are also required as a part of the home insuring process. In fact, many homeowners first hear about WETT inspections because an insurance company asks that their appliances be examined by a WETT certified inspector. In Canada, insurance companies require homes using wood burning appliances to be thoroughly inspected by a professional and cleared/approved before the home can be insured.

If purchasing a home that includes any of these wood-burning appliances, a WETT inspection is an absolute necessity. Cottages often include wood-burning appliances, and often the installation of these features is not in compliance with WETT standards.

Did you know that many people have had a chimney fire and are not even aware of it! Once you have had a chimney fire, there is a good chance that the lining of your chimney will be damaged which poses serious safety issues every time you use your fireplace. Failing to keep your fireplace and chimney in good working order is not only dangerous, but it also leads to structural damage to the brickwork. Like most things, it will cost you less if you address problems while they are in their infancy.

Most insurance company require a WETT certified inspection at the time you insure with them. You should also check the fine print and understand that according to the fire code, you should actually have your chimney inspected every 12 months! We have special discount rates for those who have a yearly inspection.

For inspection in the greater Niagara/Hamilton areas please call or email me.

Chimney fire
Fire Code = 2.6.1.4. Chimneys, Flues and Flue Pipes
(1) Every chimney, flue and flue pipe shall be inspected to identify any dangerous condition at intervals not greater than 12 months, at the time of addition of any appliance, and after any chimney fire.