Many homes and cottages in Ontario use wood burning stoves not only as a source of auxiliary heat but also as a source of enjoyment. But having a woodstove does come with some extra requirements to protect and insure your home properly and there often questions to go along with this.
Whether you are buying a home with an existing wood stove or installing one in your home, it is likely you will need an WETT inspection completed to ensure it is professionally installed and in good working order.
This not only helps protect your home from the risk of fire but also your family’s health and safety. When a woodstove is not installed correctly it can release harmful pollutants into your home. Young children, elderly, and anyone with pre-existing heart or respiratory conditions are especially susceptible to the negative health effects of a woodstove that is not functioning properly.
Typically, an insurance company would also require a questionnaire filled out which provides information about how much the stove is used, some measurements, and sometimes pictures of the unit.
WETT stands for Wood Energy Technology Transfers and includes an inspection performed by a WETT certified technician. The technician will ensure the wood stove is in good condition, was installed and is operating properly, and is up to standard code. They will also need access to the roof to examine the chimney for any issues with ventilation. Measurements will be taken to ensure the minimum clearances between all sides of the stove and the walls and ceiling are met.
If you are moving into a home that has an existing woodstove that has been WETT certified there will be a tag on the unit or the homeowner will be able to provide documentation. Keep in mind however, that insurance companies will usually require a current WETT inspection is performed prior to covering the home.
Having a woodstove does affect the price of your home insurance. There are many variables that go into rating a home or property policy and each home and homeowner is rated individually. Most insurance companies will either charge a flat fee anywhere from $50 to $150 or add a percentage to the policy, usually around 10%.
At Absolute Insurance Brokers, your safety and well being are our top priority. It is very important that your woodstove is covered properly so that you have no issues in the event of a claim. Whether you are buying a new home, installing a woodstove in your home, or just have some questions, contact us today @ 1-877-941-2266 or contact@absoluteinsurance.ca.
