GL InspectionsHome inspection vs appraisal vs WETT inspection: what's the difference?
A home inspection tells you the physical condition of the house, an appraisal tells your lender what the house is worth, and a WETT inspection checks whether a wood stove or wood-burning fireplace is installed safely, often for your insurer. They answer different questions, so buying a home with a wood-burning fireplace can involve all three.
Updated October 2026 · By Gerardo Lucero, Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)
Three different questions
Buyers in the GTA often hear all three terms in the same week, usually from the agent, the mortgage broker and the insurance broker. The easiest way to keep them straight is to ask who each one works for and what question it answers.
- Home inspection: "What condition is this house in, and what needs attention?"
- Appraisal: "What is this house worth on the market, so the lender knows its loan is covered?"
- WETT inspection: "Is this wood-burning appliance installed and vented safely?"
Side-by-side comparison
| Home inspection | Appraisal | WETT inspection | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Physical condition of the whole home | Market value | Safety of a wood stove, insert or wood fireplace |
| Who usually orders it | The buyer (or seller, for a pre-listing inspection) | The lender, as part of the mortgage | The buyer or owner, often because the insurer asks |
| Who the report is for | You, the client | The lender; buyers often never see it | You, and your insurance company |
| What is looked at | Roof, exterior, structure, heating, cooling, plumbing, electrical, attic, interior | Size, rooms, updates, lot, neighbourhood, comparable sales, general condition | Appliance, clearances to combustibles, chimney or flue, installation per codes and manufacturer |
| Typical cost | With GL Inspections: from $450 (condo) to $600 (detached) | Roughly $300 to $600 in Canada, often a closing cost | Varies by provider and level of inspection |
| Can it replace the others? | No | No | No |
Why an appraisal is not an inspection
An appraiser notes the age, size and general condition of the home to estimate value, but does not run the furnace, test outlets or look for roof leaks from the attic. A house can appraise at the full price and still need a new roof next year. The appraisal protects the lender; the inspection protects you.
Why a home inspection is not a WETT inspection
Under the InterNACHI Standards of Practice, I inspect the visible, accessible parts of a fireplace and chimney: the firebox, hearth, damper and what I can see of the chimney outside. The standard does not include the inside of the flue, draft, or whether the installation meets the codes for wood-burning appliances. That is the job of a WETT-certified professional.
WETT stands for Wood Energy Technology Transfer, a non-profit that trains and certifies people who inspect wood-burning systems in Canada. A basic visual WETT inspection (Level 1) is the one most often used for insurance and real estate. Many insurers ask for one before covering a home with a wood stove or wood-burning fireplace, so call your insurance broker early if the house you want has one.
What I'd do as a buyer
- Book the home inspection within your inspection condition.
- Let your lender arrange the appraisal; ask your broker if you can get a copy.
- If there is a wood stove or wood fireplace, ask your insurance broker whether they need a WETT inspection, and book it before your conditions expire.
General information, not legal or financial advice; confirm details with your agent, broker and lawyer.
Need the condition side covered? Book your home inspection.
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Questions people ask
is an appraisal the same as a home inspection
No. An appraisal estimates market value for your lender; a home inspection checks the home's physical condition for you.
do i need a wett inspection to buy a house
Not by law, but many insurers ask for one before covering a home with a wood stove or wood-burning fireplace. Ask your insurance broker early.
does home inspector do wett
A home inspection covers the visible parts of the fireplace and chimney only. A WETT inspection is done by a WETT-certified professional; GL Inspections doesn't offer it.
who pays for appraisal canada
The lender usually arranges it, and the buyer often pays as part of closing costs, though some lenders cover it.
what does wett stand for
Wood Energy Technology Transfer, a Canadian non-profit that trains and certifies wood-burning system professionals.
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