What is a WETT inspection? A WETT inspection, short for Wood Energy Technology Transfer, is an inspection done by a certified WETT inspector on a wood burning system. There are many different things to look at when doing a WETT inspection. The WETT inspector examines many different parts of the wood burning system to make sure it is operating correctly, the structural condition is good, and it is safe to use and up to current codes.   There are 3 levels of WETT inspections that can be performed and depending on the outcome of the inspection; a more extensive inspection may be required.

Level 1 is a visual inspection.  The inspector visually examines the wood burning system with no use of ladders or tools. Many items are examined during the process.  Wood burning stove, flue pipes, chimney, hearth and masonry and distances from combustibles are just to name a few items checked to make sure everything is in good working order.   There are also different types of inspections for wood stoves, fireplaces and pellet stoves.

A Level 2 inspection is the next step in the inspection process. The use of tools, such as a ladder, is required as well as the removal of the doors to complete a more thorough inspection.

A Level 3 inspection is the most thorough level. This level of inspection might require special tools to remove or alter the wood burning system in order to complete a more thorough inspection.

For real estate or insurance needs, usually a level 1 is most common. Only if the inspector sees an issue a level 2 or 3 inspection might be needed.

There are different reasons a WETT inspection might be done or requested.  A buyer purchasing a property might include in the offer to purchase that a WETT inspection be done in order to know it is in the correct and safe working order.  An insurance company may request a WETT inspection from a home owner before issuing a home policy. WETT inspections are fairly common in the Dufferin County area as many of the homes here have wood burning systems.  Many of our local Orangeville WETT inspectors may also offer repairs, chimney sweeps and installations of wood burning systems.

WETT is a non-profit educational association. This course provides professional training to ensure proper education to promote safe, certified inspections on wood burning systems in Canada. The installation of wood burning systems and maintenance is not regulated in Canada.  WETT does not hold any responsibility for their members and does not warrant any of the workmanship done by a WETT inspector.

Home inspectors, Real Estate Agents and insurance companies know how important it is to have a certified WETT inspection done.  A fire can be a threat to any home and having a WETT inspection done regularly can prevent damage to your home, help provide safety for your family and will also give you peace of mind.