I’m thinking about putting in a wood stove in my home for heat because of the rising heating oil prices. I’ve installed a stove before but my insurance company tells me that it has to be put in by a professional at significant cost to me. So do I have to pay for installation, or can I do it and then get a professional to come and inspect it?


Answer: This will be something that you will have to sort out with your insurance company. Each company will have their own unique underwriting requirements in order to give you insurance on your wood stove. For instance, if this particular company has had a problem with claims from stoves installed by homeowners rather than professionals, they may decide to refuse you coverage if you install yourself.

I’d speak with a company representative directly at your earliest convenience.