Wood-Burning stove? Make sure to inform your insurance company.
There’s nothing like the warmth and comfort of a wood-burning fire during the winter. As temperatures drop and snow piles up, many homeowners rely on their stoves to stay cozy. It’s nostalgic, comforting, and for many, a cherished part of winter living in Ontario.
But when it comes to home insurance, a wood-burning stove is something your insurance company must be told about.
Why it's important to inform your insurance company
Wood-burning stoves increase the risk of fire, which is why insurance companies pay close attention to them. If your home has one—whether it’s a freestanding stove, a fireplace insert, or a similar setup—it needs to be disclosed on your home insurance policy.
This information is usually listed in your policy documents as part of your home’s details. If you’re not sure whether it’s been noted, just give us a call. We’re happy to review your policy with you.
A Key Rule to Know About Heating
One important thing to be aware of:
- A wood-burning stove cannot be the main (primary) source of heat for your home.
At this time, we are not aware of any insurance company that will insure a home where wood burning is the primary heat source. If this applies to your situation, it’s important to let us know right away so we can talk through your options.
What happens if it's not disclosed?
If a fire were to happen and the insurance company discovered that a wood-burning stove was present but never disclosed, you could face serious coverage issues, including having your claim denied.
There’s no point in paying insurance premiums for coverage that may not be there when you need it most. Making sure everything is properly disclosed helps protect you and ensures your policy works as intended.
We're here to help
If you have a wood-burning stove, are unsure whether it’s listed on your policy, or have any questions at all, please reach out to us. We’re here to make sure your home is properly insured, so you can enjoy the comforts of winter with peace of mind.
Wood-burning stove FAQs
Can installing a wood-burning stove affect my home insurance premium?
If you have a wood-burning stove or appliance, your insurer may apply a small additional charge to your premium—typically no more than $50. However, if you have a wood-burning appliance, it must be inspected by a WETT certified technician before you can obtain home insurance.
Are there specific safety certifications for wood-burning stoves required by Ontario insurers?
Before a home with a wood-burning appliance can be insured, most insurance companies will require a WETT (Wood Energy Technology Transfer) inspection completed by a certified professional. This inspection confirms that the appliance and venting system meet current safety requirements and building standards.
Depending on the type of inspection, the technician may review things like chimney condition, required clearances from combustible materials, and overall installation quality. For homeowners, this process helps ensure the system is safe to use. For insurers, it provides confidence that fire risks have been properly assessed.
A comprehensive WETT inspection can uncover concerns such as improper installation, aging equipment, or components that no longer meet code. These issues, if left unaddressed, can increase the likelihood of a fire and lead to costly insurance claims. The final report typically includes photos, measurements, and written findings that insurers rely on when deciding whether coverage can be offered and at what cost.
If the inspection identifies any problems, the insurer may ask that repairs or updates be completed before coverage is finalized. This process helps reduce risk while encouraging safer homes for everyone involved.
Are wood-burning stoves covered by home insurance policies in Ontario?
Wood-burning stoves and similar appliances can be included under a standard home insurance policy, but there are important conditions. One key requirement is that wood burning cannot be the home’s primary heating system. Insurance companies require a permanent heat source—such as a furnace or electric baseboard heating—to be in place before coverage can be confirmed.
In addition, any wood-burning appliance must be professionally inspected through a WETT inspection. This ensures the appliance and its venting system meet current safety codes and installation standards. These requirements help reduce fire risk and ensure your home remains eligible for insurance coverage.