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W.E.T.T. Chimney, Woodstove and Fireplace Inspections In Victoria BC and Area

The British Columbia Fire Code requires that every wood burning device be inspected annually.

Wood Energy Technology Training

Due to a high number of chimney fires, insurance companies are now requiring woodstoves and fireplaces to be inspected regularly by WETT certified Inspectors who follow common industry guidelines.
- Inspection points out areas where clearances to combustibles may be an issue
- Inspection points out problem areas of installation methods or improper choices of chimney equipment.
- Inspection points out deterioration of appliance, chimney and equipment
Strata and Condominium groups are also being asked to have fireplaces, chimneys and wood burning appliances inspected on a group basis. Ask about special pricing for multiple units over six.
Victoria, Oak Bay, Esquimalt, Saanich, Saanichton, Colwood, View Royal, Sooke, Langford, Sidney
Galiano, Pender, Salt Spring, Duncan and area.

Do you require a WETT Basic Visual Inspection of your Woodburning Appliance, Wood Stove, Fireplace, Fireplace Insert or Chimney for a:

Building Permit
Insurance Requirements
Safety Issues and Peace of mind
After a Chimney fire to make sure of Chimney Condition
Inefficient or Ineffective operating woodstove, fireplace insert or fireplace
Pre-purchase of a home equipped with a wood burning appliance or fireplace
Installation method and clearances of Wood Stoves and Appliances that have Certification labels
Installation method and clearances of Woodstoves, Space heaters and Appliances that do not have Certification labels

A WETT basic visual inspection is a general overview of the readily accessible parts to determine if the system meets current regulations, safety requirements and BC Building Code. It is done on a WETT standardized form.

An example of an uncertified stove (no label) that with a few of our suggested modifications, now meets installation clearances by utilizing properly sized and installed Heat Shields. A properly installed and constructed Heat shield can reduce clearances of older cookstoves, woodstoves, stovepipes and space heaters and allow them to meet new requirements.

Stovepipe clearance to combustibles may sometimes be reduced a certain amount by using a Heat Shield or changing to "double wall" stovepipe.

This Jotul Wood Stove has a more decorative tile and cement board Heat Shield that safely reduce the clearances to combustibles..

An addon shield attached to back of stove may also reduce clearances to combustibles requirements.

If you have questions about your chimney, fireplace, fireplace insert, cookstove or woodstove or your insurance company has sent you forms to fill out, book a WETT inspection with us and we can clarify these items as well as give you a comprehensive inspection overview of your system.

Please feel free to Call or Text me at 250-418-5110 (cell) or email handyvictoria@gmail.com , I am a very experienced tradesman and in a very many cases just a few small modifications can make your wood burning system function properly and become Code Compliant for Insurance Purposes.

Also, as an independent WETT inspector - I work for you, the customer, to provide you with a comprehensive review of your woodburning system, I do not automatically disclose your report to your insurance company or any other authority. You receive the report directly and you may submit it to your insurance company or other authority as you situation requires.

Many folks have had negative experiences with inspections and inspectors, we know this and as a result we try to make your WETT inspection a positive experience in every way possible, explaining each facet of your system as it relates to current rules and regulations, and suggesting improvements and upgrades if possible ...

The WETT Inspection Report document we provide you with, will outline the strengths as well as any deficiencies in your woodburning system as they fit in with current fire and installation codes, your particular house pressurization issues and the installation guidelines of your system. This information will allow you to make informed decisions about your use of your woodburning appliances. Informed decisions are better decisions.

If your woodburning system has deficiencies, you may correct them and we can reinspect, we are non judgmental as to your installation and only inspecting to ensure proper installation guidelines are followed. It is better to have your system inspected by someone who has installed and repaired many systems than someone who took a few courses and may not have the experience to anticipate possible dangerous issues.

Very often, a WETT inspection can also identify issues which cause improper performance of wood stoves, fireplaces and fireplace inserts like backdrafting and smoking.

As well we provide tips and hints on good wood burning practices and procedures. (Click to download)

As we are independent WETT inspectors, we do not automatically find flaws that fail your woodburning system so we can sell you a new one...

WETT Fireplace, Masonry Fireplace, Fireplace Insert, Chimney and Woodstove Inspection Costs

WETT Basic Visual Inspections cost $125 per appliance plus HST in Greater Victoria area (Sooke to Sidney), BC, mileage charges and travel time will be added for Southern Gulf Islands or elsewhere in the province.

If you need a more intensive inspection or an evaluation to determine system integrity or if your wood burning system is not functioning properly, is damaged or causing concerns such as smoke spillage, rapid creosote accumulation, etc., I am a Journeyman Bricklayer and Mason and can inspect brick or stone fireplaces as well.

Detailed Inspection of chimney - from the roof - costs extra $40 minimum and depends on accessibility of chimney, roof slope and other safety considerations. ( I carry ladders and safety equipment and can usually accomplish this in the same visit.)
- Video camera inspection of chimney flue costs additional and depends upon roof slope and equipment necessary to perform the inspection.
- Opening walls to inspect 'clearances to combustibles' costs extra depending on accessibility and site conditions.

Note: In some cases, an additional inspection may be required after deficiencies have been corrected, usually this can be handled by emailing photos and other communications, but if a trip back is necessary it will cost cost $50, plus HST plus mileage and travel time if applicable.

WETT inspections are done by the CSA rulebook with everyone's safety in mind.

Note: a bonafide WETT inspector carries a Photo ID Card with the Current Year sticker attached, ask to see it.
Note 2: Woodstoves, fireplaces and chimneys must be cold to be inspected.

Responsible Use

All inspections are done with the provision that your wood burning appliance and chimney are cleaned thoroughly and regularly and completely, thoroughly seasoned appropriate and dry firewood (15 -20 % moisture content ) is being utilized and over-firing is not done.

About Good Firewood

Based on information provided by the Wood Heating Organization

Download Your Free PDF Copy Of Big List of Wood Burning Tips

Properly seasoned firewood lights easily and is a pleasure to burn. Trying to burn wet firewood causes nothing but problems. Some of the symptoms include:

• Difficulty in maintaining a fire

• Smouldering fire with little flame

• Excess soot and creosote on glass

• Rapid creosote build-up in chimney

• Low heat output

• Short burn time

• High fuel consumption

• Excessive smoke emissions from chimney

• And increased odour of smoke within home

Many of these problems could easily be eliminated by burning properly seasoned firewood. Here are five simple guidelines to help towards improving firewood quality:

1. Cut the wood to length

Firewood length should be matched to your particular appliance. Always keep in mind that shorter pieces are much easier to handle. This is why many experts agree that the ideal firewood length for wood stoves is 35 to 40 cm (14 to 16 in) long.

2. Split it before stacking

Rounds of firewood will not dry properly until split. While ends may appear dry, water is still trapped inside and cannot escape until the bark and inner growth rings are opened. Larger pieces of firewood should also be split into smaller sizes. Bigger pieces tend to smoulder for extended periods when placed on the fire, whereas small pieces ignite quickly. Small pieces also come in handy for making a small, hot fire that is better suited for heating during mild weather. To ensure a good variety, split chunks of firewood into sizes ranging from 7.5 cm (3 inches) to 15 cm (6 inches) wide measured at the largest cross-sectional dimension.

3. Stack it up early and let it dry

Once wood is cut and split, it must be stacked in an open location where the sun & wind can work its magic. This will allow moisture to gradually evaporate. Loose, single-row stacks no more than four-feet high usually work best. Be sure to keep firewood up off the ground. This will prevent further saturation from ground water, prevent rot, and limit mould growth. Rails or pallets can be used for this purpose.

4. Leave it alone for at least six months

Seasoning is a slow process. To ensure firewood is ready to burn, at least six months of drying time is required. In most parts of Canada, wood that is cut, split, and stacked in the spring can be dry enough to move into the woodshed for winter heating by late October. Keep in mind dense hardwoods like Oak and Maple require much more time to season properly. For this reason, experienced wood-burners process their firewood at least a year ahead. This point is also important for seasoning any tree species in damp, coastal climates. Also, do not make the common mistake of assuming firewood cut from a standing dead tree is ready to burn. A dead tree is not necessarily a dry tree. This wood may still require seasoning.

5. Move firewood under cover in late fall

Once the seasoning process is complete, be sure to protect your investment by keeping it dry. Prior to the onset of winter, move your supply of seasoned firewood into the woodshed. Any dry, well-ventilated outdoor location will work fine as long as it is covered with a good roof.

How to tell if wood is dry enough

Firewood with moisture content between 15% and 20% is considered acceptable. How can you tell if it is ready without a moisture meter? Here are a few things to look for:

1. Multiple checks or cracks in the end grain can be a good indication of dryness.

2. Bang pieces together. Dry wood will make a hollow "clinking" sound. Wet wood will make a dull "thud."

3. Dry wood weighs much less than wet wood.

4. Split a piece of wood. If the exposed surface still feels damp, the wood is too wet to burn.

Want to read more articles on firewood quality and other topics related to heating with wood? There is a wealth of knowledge & experience available to you online through the Wood Heating Organization. You will find their website at www.woodheat.org.