Wood Burning Stoves And Insurance Considerations

Dec 20, 2021

What to consider for insurance with a wood burning or pellet stove

Many regions are approaching heating season in Canada – turning on our furnaces, boilers or wood stoves to stay warm. Although wood stoves require specific maintenance and inspections to be appropriately covered with home insurance, it can be done without a drastic increase in your policy.

We answer your burning questions about operating wood and pellet stoves and insuring them safely.

What is the difference between a wood stove and pellet stove?

If you opt for a supplemental heat source such as a wood stove, there are two types of fuel to choose from - firewood and wood pellets. Pellet stoves operate with a full hopper of pellets and can be controlled with a thermostat. A wood stove must be maintained with fresh wood to keep constant heat.

When choosing which type is right for you, compare each model's benefits, features, and frequent issues.

How much does a wood stove increase insurance?

Wood stoves will increase your premium by 10% or a set amount of $100 or more, depending on your provider. You can have a lower increase by choosing a higher deductible and confirming you are paying only for the features you need.

Hold on to all your maintenance receipts because you are responsible for getting inspections and cleanings. Suppose you do not inform your insurer that you have a wood burning stove or prove any maintenance. In that case, the insurer can deny your claim and cancel your policy.

Wood stove insurance requirements

A professional must install a wood stove and have a current WETT Certificate to confirm that it is installed correctly and meets current building codes. This certification will not only make your stove safer but will help insurers who are underwriting your policy. It will require :

Floor protection: protection against radiant heat from the stove and embers with a non-combustible material.
Appliance clearances: clearances around the wood burning unit must meet guidelines for how far the stove needs combustible materials and a proper shield installed.
No dangerous locations
Chimney and flue pipe meet all requirements.

Having a WETT Certification and maintenance records will help you get insurance with a wood burning stove in your living space.

Do I need to get my wood stove inspected?

In Ontario, a WETT (Wood Energy Technology Transfer) inspection is a type of inspection for woodstoves – insurance companies generally require a WETT inspection before issuing a policy. You can find a local inspector online and set up an appointment. It is recommended to get the inspection when you buy a house with a wood burning stove, and then every five years. You can find an inspector near you by searching online.

What insurance companies cover wood stoves?

Many insurers will protect your home if you have a wood stove as long as you meet the requirements for safety and it is installed properly. Remember, it is better to inform your provider of the stove – if you need to make a home insurance claim and didn’t tell them you had a stove, you could face your claim being denied. You may want to take a look at additional fire insurance to ensure you know what is covered if there is an accident.

Wood burning stove safety tips

Wood stoves can keep you warm and cozy. Still, they can turn dangerous quickly if they are not working correctly or regularly maintained. Heating fires cause 36% of residential fires.

Keep your home safe with these wood stove safety tips.

If you are getting a woodstove installed, ensure it is on a non-combustible floor and has adequate ventilation.

Schedule regular cleanings (yearly) and inspections every 3-5 years.

Before lighting, open the damper to allow good airflow – it should be open until the fire is out and the ashes are cool.

Only use dry, seasoned wood and do not overfill your stove. Burning too much can cause tar and creosote to build up, becoming a fire hazard.

Do not use chemically treated wood, painted or any cardboard, plastics, driftwood, plywood, or rotted/mouldy wood, which can expose your family to chemicals or mould spores.

Never leave children unattended by a fire.

Have a fire escape plan and review it with your family.

Have a fire extinguisher close by and easily accessible.

If you are decorating around your wood stove for the holidays, make sure all decorations are removed before using it.

When it is time to clean the ashes from the woodstove, wait until they are completely cool and scoop them into a metal bucket – never plastic or cardboard.

How much does a pellet stove raise insurance?

Pellet stoves can raise your home insurance because they increase the risk of structural damage and fire. Pellet stoves emit smoke and, over time, can cause damage to the structure of your building. Similar to the wood stove, you may need to get inspections and show proof of installation and service records.

You may see an increase, but it is generally less than 10%. You can also speak to your insurer about an endorsement for the pellet stove. Pellet models often have a lower increase since they are less likely to cause a house fire than wood burning varieties.

3 pellet stove safety tips

While you are working on that fall home maintenance checklist, be sure to look at your pellet stove. To keep it running all winter smoothly, follow these three safety tips.

Keep it clean : Clean pellet stoves once a week during the colder months or as directed in the owner's manual. Once a year, they will need to be cleaned by a professional and inspected.

Charge batteries : Since pellet stoves run by electricity, the fan system could stop working and cause smoke to enter your home if the power goes out. Have a working battery backup system to keep the system working long enough to finish burning pellets.

Follow instructions : Carefully follow the manufacturer's guidelines for cleaning, maintenance, and how to use the stove. Only use the specific type of pellets recommended for the model you have.

Wood stove and insurance FAQs

Are wood stoves legal in Ontario?

Wood stoves are legal in the province, but every home with a wood burning stove must meet building compliance, local laws, and safety requirements.

Can you leave a wood burning stove on overnight?

It is not recommended to leave a wood burning stove lit overnight. However, if it is a primary source of heating in your home, you can stay safe by choosing hardwood that fits inside the stove, dampen down the flames, close air vents and stoke the fire in the morning.

What clearance is required around a wood burning stove?

There must be a clearance of at least 36 inches between the top of the stove and the ceiling. Be mindful of making space around the stove and not place furniture nearby.

Can I get home insurance in Canada with a wood stove?

You can get home insurance in Canada if there is a wood stove in your living space. Wood stoves will need to be inspected and certified. Contact your broker to ensure you have proper coverage.

Will A Wood Stove Impact Insurance In Canada?