What model VC stove? In a split level with the staircase, you will likely heat the upstairs quite nicely.

I have an Intrepid. I have some safety concerns about using the stove because some details were missed by whoever installed the stove. For one, the wall pass-through is surrounded by regular drywall instead of brick or other noncombustible material. The stove is sitting on slate, which should be OK. It does have its' own chimney. Is coal still an option for heating? Any additional information you can give would be very much appreciated. Thanks for your response.

Using drywall may depend on the flue pipe. If it is double walled, it may be allowed for zero clearance, or perhaps 1".

I think this model does not have a catalyst in it. If that is true, then you could use coal. If it has a cat, it must be removed for coal usage.

I recommend having the chimney and pass-thru inspected and cleaned if necessary. A double or triple wall thimble can be easily installed by someone who knows what they're doing if the current set up isn't safe. I a have a VC Resolute III from the mid 1980s, non catalytic, still works great. VC made coal conversions kits for these stoves. They may still be available from woodsmanpartsplus.com. Great site not only for parts but for info on older models; there's a manufacturer's cross-reference section. Another good site is discussion forum at hearth.com. Good luck.