Bellingham WA Home Inspection (King of the House): Wood Stove Safety

Wood burning stoves and fireplaces are a component of many homes that an inspector has to evaluate. Honestly, more often than not, there is some glaring problem that makes it apparent that the device requires professional service. This ranges from heavy deposits of creosote in the flue, to broken firebricks, bad gaskets at doors, insufficient clearances to combustibles such as walls, or in this case, a hearth that is too short. A hearth should extend out 18" from the door opening. At this unit, it is not even close and a carpet is in front of the stove. Think of glowing embers. The client can buy a fireproof mat to put down, or extend the hearth out.

If, as a realtor, you see home inspectors defer most wood stoves or fireplaces for further evaluation, this will give you some insight as to why: The National Fire Protection Association has stated that a Level 2 chimney inspection should be part of every sale or transfer of property. A Level 2 inspection is an in-depth inspection by a specially trained and licensed chimney professional. Any fireplace or stove and the flue and all associated components are carefully analyzed for safety and performance. For additional information, and to evaluate if you wish to have such an inspection, please visit:

http://www.csia.org/HomeownerResources/ChimneySafetyHotTopics/ChimneyInspections/tabid/116/Default.aspx

Thanks for dropping by.

Steven L. Smith

www.kingofthehouse.com