Tips for buying firewood

Need more firewood but are puzzled by what and how much to buy? The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment's Consumer Affairs division has some advice.

Check the quality of the wood

It's a good idea to ask about the condition of the wood before you buy it. Wood that is green or wet is poor quality and will be difficult to burn. Different types of wood burn at different rates - so the cheapest wood may not necessarily be the most cost-effective overall.

Firewood can be sold by volume or description

Firewood can be sold either by description or by volume. It is usually sold as a "thrown measure" - that is as if it were thrown into a container, not stacked.

Firewood sold by description might be a truck load, trailer load or sackful. You may want to see it before committing to buy it. If you buy your firewood by volume, it should legally be in cubic metres. To be sure you're getting the right amount ask the vendor if they have a MAPSS certified measure. This is a measure approved by the Measurement and Product Safety Service.

Check your invoice

Invoices for firewood by volume should state the true net weight or measure of the quantity supplied.

If you think you've received less than you ordered, don't use it. Keep it in a safe place and contact MAPSS for advice. Call freephone 0508 MAPSS Info (0508 627 774).

Shop around

Even if you're in a hurry to get your winter stash sorted, it pays to shop around.

For information on consumer issues, visit: www.consumeraffairs.govt.nz.