WETT (SITE) Inspections Defined
The governing body that oversees the training and certification of Solid Fuel Professionals in Canada is Wood Energy Technology Transfer. WETT also stands for Wood Energy Technical Training. WETT- certified inspectors perform System Inspection Technical Evaluations (SITE). Documenting the SITE is a completed WETT Inspections report.
The differences between SITE and the “Visual” inspection conducted when sweeping a chimney
SITE is a formalized process that assesses and documents the Solid Fuel Burning system’s operating condition and installation. They ensure adherence to the manufacturer’s instructions and relevant building codes. There are three levels: Visual, Technical and Invasive. SITE Basic Inspectors and WETT Certified chimney sweeps may perform Visual and Technical Inspections. SITE Comprehensive Inspectors perform Visual, Technical and Invasive Inspections. The inspection report will document all areas inspected.
“Visual” inspections during a chimney sweep will identify obvious dangerous conditions. Common conditions include creosote buildup, evidence of overfiring, chimney fires and worn or damaged components. When sweeping a chimney, components of the stove or fireplace (such as internal baffles or chimney connectors) may need to be disassembled. More areas can be visible than usually are during a SITE Visual. Additionally, assessing the types of chimney deposits in the system is valuable for diagnosing the system’s performance.
SITE or “Visual”
Insurance companies may require documentation of the suitability and installation of solid fuel appliances to uphold policy coverage, particularly when these appliances are installed, modified, or a new policy is issued. Typically, SITE Visual is sufficient; however, some insurance companies may require Technical or even Invasive after a chimney fire. If you are considering the purchase of a house with a solid fuel appliance, have a SITE completed. All areas of the system will be accessible once a new system is installed; therefore, a SITE Invasive can be completed. Should a chimney fire occur, at a minimum, a SITE Technical should be conducted. After the evaluation, an approved WETT Inspection report is issued.
Conducting “visual” inspections together with a chimney sweep is most suitable for ensuring the continued safe operation of the system. They are more likely to identify issues that would not be apparent otherwise. Visual inspections might identify the need for a formal Inspection.
