In fact, the request is for an inspection of a wood burning system performed by a WETT certified technician. There is no such thing as a WETT certificate for an appliance. It is the technician who has acquired WETT certification and with his knowledge will inspect your wood burning system to determine condition and compliance to current codes.
Why the purchaser of a home should get a WETT inspection:
- The prospective buyer’s insurance company may be requesting the inspection of the wood burning system in order to determine condition and compliance to codes.
- The prospective buyer wants to be aware of any repairs that may be required before making “their offer to purchase”, since an expensive repair would be reflected in the offer to purchase.
- The new homeowner, who has just moved into their newly purchased home, wants to ensure that their wood burning system is in good working condition and compliant with existing codes before they settle in to enjoy their first fire.
Why the seller of a home should get a WETT inspection:
- To have the full assurance that your wood-burning appliance is installed in accordance with building and fire code requirements. Safety is paramount, and wood-burning appliances are manufactured to work safely and efficiently when they are installed, used and maintained properly.
- Having a WETT inspection done before listing a home alerts the homeowner of any potential repairs that may require attention.
- Making any repairs ahead of listing a home avoids having these issues become stumbling blocks when the prospective buyer has included the request in their “offer to purchase.” A prospective buyer would most likely negotiate on your asking price because of repairs required to bring a wood burning system up to code.
- A favourable WETT inspection report on a functioning fireplace reflects well on the condition of a home and will therefore command a higher price and sell faster than a home with a fireplace that is in need of repair.
What is WETT?
Wood Energy Technology Transfer Inc. (WETT Inc.) is a Canadian non-profit training and education association managed by a volunteer Board of Directors elected by holders of valid WETT certificates. Through its administrative designate, WETT Inc. functions as the national registrar of the WETT program. Through professional training and public education, WETT Inc. promotes the safe and effective use of wood burning systems in Canada.
In carrying out its mandate to promote increased safety and effectiveness, WETT Inc. maintains the Wood Energy Technical Training program (WETT).
The program is designed to:
- Provide training to those who offer wood energy products and installation and maintenance services to the public and to those who conduct inspections of wood burning systems,
- Confirm and recognize the knowledge and skills acquired through field experience, self-study and successful completion of WETT courses by issuing certificates of qualification
- Provide training to specialty audiences as the need and demand arises.
