What is Included in a WETT Inspection

A WETT Inspection is an inspection that must be conducted by an inspector who is WETT Certified. Our InterNACHI Certified Master Inspectors must take a separate course to become WETT certified. This course typically consists of five days of training as well as eighty weeks of field experience before they receive Certification. Healthy Living Spaces Canada advises that you use a licensed and experienced WETT inspector because only they will have the knowledge necessary for examining these systems correctly.
While a typical Home Inspection includes a visual inspection of the fireplace, chimney and hearth, a WETT Inspection conducted by a certified WETT inspector includes an inspection of all the elements of any wood-burning technologies in the home to ensure that they are installed correctly and are compliant to building codes and regulations. It will also include a visit to the roof to examine the chimney for any potential structural or ventilation issues (we generally use a drone for this).
The Inspection might include an examination of a wood stove, flue pipe, chimney, and wood-burning fireplace. An Inspector will look at the positioning of the system and its distance in relation to any combustible materials. If there is a problem with the function of the technology in your home, it is important that the technician you employ is also a licensed WETT technician.
WETT Inspections are much more than just something to give you peace of mind; if wood-burning appliances are a part of your home's features, it is of paramount importance that these appliances are both installed properly and inspected for your safety by a Certified WETT Inspector.

Why Do I Need a WETT Inspection

An inspection of the wood-burning technologies in your home is very important for a number of reasons, not the least of which is the safety of you and your family. With wood-burning appliances, the potential for harmful pollutants to be released into your home as well as combustible materials to ignite is increased; therefore, it is important that these appliances are regularly inspected and properly maintained. If your home 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 a necessity.
WETT-certified inspections are also now being required as a part of the home-insuring process. In fact, most homeowners first hear about WETT specialty inspections because an insurance company asks that their appliances be inspected by a WETT Certified Inspector. In Canada, insurance companies require homes using wood-burning appliances to be thoroughly inspected by a professional and approved before the home can be insured.
If purchasing an older 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. An inspection will tell you whether these appliances are operating optimally, are in good structural condition, and are burning in a way that does not compromise your health and safety.

What is Wood Energy Technology Transfer (WETT)

This type of inspection may be required as part of a real estate purchase, as requested by your insurer, as required by the Authority Having Jurisdiction or as part of a Fire Code requirement. It also provides peace of mind to you prior to use. This includes a basic inspection of the solid-fuel-burning appliance and venting system components that are visible. It will include measurements of clearances, opening doors or dampers, and a visual inspection of the chimney from the ground. It will identify any noted deficiencies and red flags that may require a more detailed inspection. It will include a final report on WETT inspection forms. If you have just purchased the property and are unsure about the appliance, you should have this inspection done. If you change your appliance or some of the visible components of the system, you should have the inspection done prior to operation.

A WETT Inspection includes a comprehensive inspection of all wood-burning appliances, including stoves and open fireplaces, by a certified WETT inspector.

These technologies can pose a significant threat to the well-being and health of those living in the home. Having a WETT Inspection performed will give you the peace of mind you require when buying or selling a home, as well as those living in the home; this is also a requirement of most insurance companies.

Wood Energy Technology Transfer (WETT.) Certification is required for all home appliances that are wood-burning such as fireplaces and fireplace inserts or a wood-burning stove. Fire is a danger to a property's safety, and as such, there are regulations that these appliances must meet in order to be certified for use. Issuing a WETT Certification can only be done by a "WETT Certified Inspector" and requires a physical inspection of the appliance. Healthy Living Spaces Canada is fully WETT Certified and regularly performs WETT Inspections in Calgary, Fort McMurray, Edmonton and surrounding areas. If you have a wood-burning fireplace or appliance and are not sure if it is WETT Certified, or maybe you have concerns about its operation, give us a call, and we can schedule an appointment that works for you.