Does my Colorado homeowners insurance policy replace wood burning stoves?

It’s not just nostalgia that’s driving the increase in wood burning stove installations. Thanks to rising fuel costs, many homeowners in Lakewood and other areas throughout Colorado are turning to wood burning stoves as a cheaper source of heat during the winter months. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the number of households using wood-fueled heating sources rose by 34 percent between 2000 and 2010, more than other types of heating fuel.

Nevertheless, many insurance agencies are reluctant to cover wood burning stoves within their policies. This is usually due to the elevated fire risk that comes with a stove installation. You’ll want to find out if you’re covered before installing your own unit, as well as whether you can have a damaged unit replaced at minimum cost.

Is Replacement in the Cards?

A good homeowner’s insurance policy lets you supplement your current form of heating with a traditional wood burning unit. Nevertheless, there are plenty of companies that prefer their customers refrain from using these devices, usually for safety and liability concerns.

Seeing if your Colorado homeowner’s insurance policy covers wood burning stoves is as simple as reading your policy’s fine print or better still, talking to your independent agent. In many cases, your homeowner’s insurance policy will not only cover fire damage stemming from wood burning stoves, but also replace the actual damaged units, as well. Always keep in mind that replacement policies can vary between insurers

Your insurance company may want proof of certification from a professional installer that your new stove was installed properly. In addition, you’ll also want to ask your independent agent how your premiums might be altered by installing a wood stove. Fires are commonly started by flying embers landing on carpets and upholstery, so it pays to have your stove surrounded by as much tile and ceramic as possible.