Fireplaces and Woodstoves...again

I know .... a broken record, but a GOOD broken record. Last year I talked about woodstoves and fireplaces when purchasing a property - either home or cottage. It seems each year, lessons are learned over again, and it is all worth repeating. Two property sales recently with stories.....
Story #1. A house with a large, floor to ceiling fireplace.When listing the home I recommended the homeowner get a WETT certificate to ensure their fireplace was safe. A Buyer cannot get insurance without one now (yes -- rules have changed again). The owner was positive their fireplace was maintained in perfect condition and they never had a problem. It "heats the house beautifully". That being said, a working fireplace or woodstove does not mean that it passes certification by today's standards. The house sold (Buyer requested a WETT certificate in the offer which the Owner agreed to). Turns out the fireplace required replacement - all stone removed, etc. for a cost of $6,000. OUCH! Story #2. A house was undergoing a home inspection by the potential buyers when the inspector said there was some issues with the chimney and it would not pass certification. The owner had also informed their realtor that the woodstove in the basement was brand new - never used. There was another Buyer waiting in the wings hoping the home did not pass inspection, or that the Buyers would try to renegotiate so they could present their offer. Because of the other offer, and fear of losing the home they wanted, the Buyers signed off on the home inspection, prepared to pay for the repair in the chimney and get the fireplace and woodstove certified. As soon as they took possession, they called the professionals who quickly told them that the insert in the fireplace was completely finished, along with the chimney, and the woodstove in the basement had been used, was installed wrong, went through drywall, and was a serious fire hazard. A quote of $8,000 was given to bring the two up to certification standards.

Am I scaring you? That is not the intent, but please beware. Do your homework -ask your home inspector questions about the woodstove or fireplace. More and more agents are recommending that Sellers get certifications before they list to prevent problems at point of sale. But not all Sellers are willing to do this, then it becomes a negotiation issue. Everyone wants a fireplace - especially at a cottage. Along with the obvious heat they provide, they create atmosphere, coziness, and enhance memories. Done safely there is nothing better!