What does a home warranty cover?
Systems, appliances, add-ons and the common exclusions in a home service contract.
- TopicHome
- Reading time2 min
Two groups of items
Home warranties cover home systems, such as heating, air conditioning, plumbing, electrical and the water heater, and major appliances, such as the refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, washer and dryer. Plans cover one group or both.
Optional add-ons
Items that only some homes have are sold separately: pool and spa equipment, well pumps, septic systems, sump pumps, a second refrigerator and limited roof-leak repair.
Common exclusions
Problems that existed before coverage began. Damage from improper installation, code violations or lack of maintenance. Cosmetic defects. Items outside the home's foundation, unless added.
Coverage limits
Most plans cap what they will pay per item or per contract year. Compare those caps to the replacement cost of your own equipment, especially the heating and cooling system.
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