The Essential WETT Inspection Checklist Every Fireplace Owner Should Know

For many homeowners in Southwestern Ontario, a wood-burning fireplace or stove is the heart of the home during our long winters. It provides warmth, ambiance, and a gathering place for the family. However, operating a wood-burning appliance comes with significant responsibility. Fire involves intense heat and combustion byproducts, both of which can be dangerous if not managed correctly. This is why Wood Energy Technology Transfer (WETT) inspections are so critical.

Whether you are buying a new home with a wood stove, renewing your insurance policy, or simply want to ensure your current setup is safe, understanding what happens during an inspection removes the mystery. A WETT inspection is not a pass/fail test designed to punish you; it is a verification process to ensure your system meets current safety codes. Knowing what is on the inspector’s list can help you prepare and give you confidence in your home’s safety.

This guide outlines the essential components of a WETT inspection checklist, breaking down exactly what a certified professional will look for when they arrive at your door.

 

Understanding the Purpose of a WETT Inspection

The primary goal of a WETT inspection is to determine if a wood-burning system is installed correctly and is safe to use. WETT Inc. is a non-profit training and education organization that certifies professionals in the safe installation and maintenance of wood-burning systems. While they do not “pass” or “fail” systems themselves, they provide reports that insurance companies and building officials rely on.

Safety, Insurance, and Peace of Mind

Most requests for these inspections come from insurance companies. Insurers need to know that the wood stove in your basement won’t burn the house down. A certified inspection confirms compliance with the B365 Installation Code for Solid-Fuel-Burning Appliances and Equipment. Beyond insurance, this process offers invaluable peace of mind. It confirms that you are not exposing your family to risks like chimney fires or carbon monoxide poisoning. You can read more about the specific WETT inspection services we offer to see how we help secure your home.

The Different Levels of Inspection

It is worth noting that there are different levels of inspection. A “Level 1” is a visual inspection of readily accessible parts, typically used for real estate transactions where the system looks sound. A “Level 2” involves a more hands-on approach, possibly including ladder work or removing parts to check internal components. A “Level 3” is an invasive investigation used after a fire or significant event. Most homeowners will only ever need a Level 1 inspection, which is what this checklist focuses on.

The Chimney and Venting System

The chimney is the engine of your wood-burning system. If it doesn’t work, nothing works. Consequently, it takes up a large portion of the inspector’s attention. They are looking for structural stability and proper airflow.

Examining the Liner and Structure

The inspector will check the chimney type. Is it a masonry chimney or a factory-built metal chimney? Crucially, they will look at the liner. Masonry chimneys must have a proper clay tile or stainless steel liner in good condition. If the liner is cracked, missing, or deteriorating, it is a major safety hazard that allows heat and smoke to transfer to the home’s structure. For metal chimneys, they check for corrosion, buckling, or separation of the sections.

Checking the Cap and Crown

At the top of the chimney, the inspector looks for a rain cap and a spark arrestor. The cap prevents water, snow, and animals from entering the flue, which can cause blockages or rust. The “crown” (the concrete top of a masonry chimney) is checked for cracks. Water freezing in these cracks can break the chimney apart over time. They will also verify that the chimney is the correct height relative to the roofline to ensure proper draft.

Appliance Condition and Installation

Once the venting is assessed, the inspector moves to the appliance itself. Whether you have an insert, a freestanding stove, or an open fireplace, the unit must be in good working order.

Structural Integrity of the Firebox

Inside the firebox, the inspector looks for cracks in the refractory bricks or metal lining. These components protect the outer shell of the stove from extreme heat. If they are damaged, heat can warp the steel body of the stove or transfer to combustible materials nearby. They will also check the damper to ensure it opens and closes freely and seals properly when not in use.

Seals, Gaskets, and Glass

For stoves and inserts, the door gasket is a common wear item. The inspector will test the seal to ensure it is airtight. A loose gasket allows uncontrolled air into the firebox, leading to over-firing (burning too hot), which can damage the stove. If the unit has a glass door, it must be free of cracks. Special ceramic glass is used for wood stoves, and any compromise in its integrity is a safety issue.

Clearances to Combustibles

This is perhaps the most common area where systems fail a WETT inspection checklist. “Clearance to combustibles” refers to the minimum distance required between the hot appliance (and its venting) and anything that can burn, such as drywall, wood studs, furniture, and flooring.

Walls, Mantels, and Furniture

The inspector will measure the distance from the stove to the back and side walls. They will also measure the distance from the stove pipe to the ceiling or nearest wall. Every appliance has a certification label that lists these required distances. If the label is missing, the inspector must default to the general building code requirements, which are often much stricter (requiring larger distances). They also check the mantel above a fireplace; if it projects too far out or is too close to the opening, it is a fire hazard.

Floor Protection Requirements

Your wood stove cannot sit directly on a hardwood floor or carpet. It requires a non-combustible hearth pad. The inspector checks that this pad extends far enough in front (usually 18 inches) and to the sides of the loading door to catch any embers that might pop out. They also verify that the pad provides the necessary thermal protection if the stove has short legs and sits close to the floor.

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Safety

A wood-burning appliance changes the air pressure dynamics of your home. The inspector needs to ensure that the smoke goes up the chimney and stays there.

Proper Venting and Draft

They will look for signs of “spillage,” which are smoke stains on the front of the fireplace or stove. This indicates that smoke has been entering the room instead of exiting through the flue. They will also verify that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are present, operational, and installed in the correct locations (typically on every level of the home and near sleeping areas).

Preparing for Your Inspection

Knowing what to expect is half the battle. Before you schedule your appointment, you can do a quick self-check using the points above. Clear away any clutter around the fireplace to give the inspector easy access. If you have the manual for your stove, have it ready, as it contains the specific clearance data the inspector needs to verify.

A successful inspection isn’t just about getting a piece of paper for your insurance agent. It is about knowing that when you light a fire on a cold winter night, your family is safe. WETT Inc. outlines the rigorous training their members undergo, ensuring that the person checking your home is a true expert in solid-fuel safety.

At Safe Home Fireplace, our certified inspectors combine technical expertise with a commitment to customer education. We don’t just point out problems; we explain them and help you find solutions. If you need to schedule an inspection or have questions about your current setup, please reach out today. Let us help you keep your home warm and safe.

 

FAQs

1. How often should I get a WETT inspection?
Generally, inspections are required when you buy a home, change insurance carriers, or install a new appliance. However, for maintenance, it is recommended to have your chimney swept annually, and the sweep can often identify if a new inspection or repair is needed.

2. Can I fail a WETT inspection?
Technically, you don’t “fail.” The inspector issues a report detailing the system’s condition. If there are code violations, the report will state “non-compliant.” You simply need to fix the issues to bring the system into compliance.

3. What happens if my wood stove doesn’t have a label?
If your stove is older and the certification label is missing or unreadable, the inspector must use the default clearances in the building code. These are typically much larger (e.g., 48 inches from the stove to the wall) than those for certified appliances, which might require moving the stove or installing heat shields.

4. How long does an inspection take?
A typical Level 1 inspection takes about an hour, depending on the accessibility of the chimney and the complexity of the installation.

5. Does a WETT inspection include a chimney sweep?
Not automatically. An inspection is an assessment. However, if the chimney is too dirty to inspect properly, the inspector may require it to be swept before they can complete the report. Many companies offer both services.