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Firewood complaints not frequent, but help is available from state Department of Agriculture

OLYMPIA – As winter approaches and consumers brace for cold, wet days and nights, homeowners often jump at an opportunity to make use of their fireplaces and wood stoves.

Before striking a match, however, consumers should handle firewood purchases with caution, according to the Washington State Department of Agriculture.

“The majority of complaints we receive are from consumers getting less wood than they paid for, or being dissatisfied with the quality of the wood they purchased,” said Kirk Robinson, manager of the agency’s Weights and Measures Program. “Most wood sellers play by the rules, but there are some who will take advantage of unsuspecting consumers. Our goal is to protect consumers against bad transactions that could leave their woodpiles and their wallets short.”

WSDA enforces regulations that ensure firewood sellers deliver the quantity and quality of wood ordered by buyers. When inspectors receive a complaint they will conduct an investigation and may work with the wood seller to make up the shortage or obtain a refund for the consumer. In chronic cases, WSDA will work with local county prosecutors to bring criminal charges against offenders.

For assistance on firewood complaints, call the state Department of Agriculture in Olympia at (360) 902-1857. For disputes in the City of Seattle, call (206) 386-1296 and in the City of Spokane, call (509) 625-6611.

Tips for purchasing firewood
• Get a receipt before you give the seller your money. It should have the price, the type and quality of the wood, and be based on a cord or portion of a cord of wood. The name and address of the seller and buyer should be on the receipt.
• The legal measure for firewood in Washington is by the cord or fraction of a cord. Sellers often deceive buyers with terms such as “unit,” “truckload,” “face cord,” “rick” or “pile.” A cord is 128 cubic feet.
• If you’re not satisfied, refuse the load or negotiate a new price. If there is a problem, contact the seller and the state Department of Agriculture before burning any wood.
• For best results, be present at the delivery and take time to inspect the firewood before it’s unloaded.

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