WETT Inspection Guide + Checklist

Nothing provides warmth and ambiance like wood-burning appliances, but safety should always be the top priority. And that’s what a WETT inspection does.

This guide walks you through the key aspects of this inspection, when it’s needed, its inclusions, checklist, and more. Let’s get started.

What is a WETT Inspection?

A WETT (Wood Energy Technology Transfer) inspection examines different types of wood-burning appliances and systems. It includes fireplaces, wood stoves, pellet stoves, and outside boilers to ensure your appliance(s) are in good condition and safe to use.

Why should you get a WETT Inspection?

WETT Inspections are becoming a mandatory requirement for insurance companies In Canada. Although it can be required by real estate or even current homeowners for their peace of mind to:

• Ensure safety and reveal common home inspection issues.
• Ensures that your appliances meet current safety codes and regulations.
• Improve fuel efficiency and extend the lifespan of the appliances.
• Increase the resale value.

Skipping a WETT inspection leaves your home vulnerable to fire and you and your family to carbon monoxide poisoning. You’ll also risk invalidating your insurance coverage and significant fines for non-compliance with safety regulations.

How often should I clean my chimney?

Like furnace inspection, the general recommendation is once a year to remove soot and creosote build-up in the chimney. The WETT guidelines don't specify a fixed schedule but emphasize regular inspection based on how often you use the fireplace and its fuel type. If you use it a lot, you may need to have it inspected more than that.

What are the inclusions of WETT inspection?

A WETT inspection checklist covers different types of installations, such as wood stoves, pipes, chimneys, clearances, and shielding. There are three levels of this inspection:

Level 1: Visual Inspection

Visual inspection is the most common and the beginning of an overall inspection. It included a visual assessment of the fireplace (and the mantle if available), clearances on the floor, or other installation to see if another inspection is required.

Visual inspection is sufficient for most annual chimney maintenance and to check for readily visible issues, without going through access holes or hatches, or doing a thermal inspection.

Level 2: Technical Inspection 

If you notice anything unusual or your appliance(s) is old or infrequently inspected, level 2 or technical inspection is recommended. It is very similar to level 1 but more comprehensive. It’s not just visual, so the inspector may go into the attic or on the roof and get their hands dirty.

Level 3: Invasive Inspection

Invasive inspection is the last part of the WETT inspection and has all the previous elements. The inspector may now cut holes in the wall to access the pipes or take apart appliances and examine individual parts.

Invasive inspection is rarely required by insurance companies unless the level 2 inspection reveals potential problems that need further investigation.

WETT inspection checklist

A WETT inspection checklist typically includes items assessing appliance installation, operation, and safety, as well as a thorough chimney examination for structural integrity, creosote buildup, and proper venting. Using this checklist ensures an in-depth assessment of the chimney and appliance.

Check out a comprehensive PDF template here.

How much does a WETT inspection cost?

The costs usually start at $150-$200 and heavily depend on your system type, whether it’s old or new, and how all of these affect the inspector’s work (which will be included in the report).

To find out about the latest price of WETT inspection, roof inspection, and other services, simply submit your request at Houmse.com to receive inspectors’ offers.

The bottom line

Regular WETT inspections are crucial for ensuring the safety and efficiency of your wood-burning appliance and chimney system. Don't wait for serious problems, avoid costly repairs, and schedule your WETT inspection today!