Does a home warranty cover insulation?
Check insulation coverage to avoid costly surprises later
Most people don’t think about insulation until their house feels a bit chillier than it should. Insulation can last up to 100 years, but pests like mice, rats and squirrels or a disaster like flooding can damage insulation. Replacement can be a costly hit to your budget. Unfortunately, you probably won’t be able to file a home warranty claim to help you with the costs. Here’s what you need to know.
Home warranty companies don’t cover insulation.
Jump to insightHome warranties typically cover appliances and systems within the home.
Jump to insightYou may have coverage elsewhere.
Jump to insightWhat insulation services does a home warranty cover?
Home warranty companies don’t offer insulation replacement services. The cost of a home warranty plan is meant to cover appliances and systems like:
- Dishwashers
- Plumbing
- Refrigerators
- HVAC systems
- Ovens, cooktops and ranges
- Built-in microwave ovens
- Ductwork
- Electrical
- Washer and dryer
- Garbage disposals
Insulation is considered a structural component of your home, like your foundation or the studs in your wall. Structural components aren’t typically part of home warranty coverage.
What to do if your home warranty doesn’t cover insulation
Even if your home warranty doesn’t cover insulation, you may still be covered. Insulation could be covered under your builders warranty if your home is new. Or, if the damage was caused by an “act of God” like a fire or flood, your home insurance may cover the replacement of your insulation.
FAQ
What does a home typically warranty cover?
Home warranties usually cover large appliances, built-in microwaves, water heaters and systems like HVACs, plumbing, ductwork, pool heaters and well pumps. Some plans also cover additional items like pest control, septic systems, central vacuums, sump pumps and more.
Do home warranties cover water damage to insulation?
While most home warranties usually do not cover water damage, many of them include coverage for plumbing issues that could lead to water damage.
What does a home warranty not cover?
Home warranties typically don’t cover structural elements of the home, like the foundation, beams or walls.
Bottom line
Home warranties typically do not cover insulation, as it is considered part of the home's structure rather than a system or appliance. However, your builders or homeowners insurance may be able to help you with replacing damaged or old insulation.
Article sources
- Angi, “How Long Does Insulation Last? A Comprehensive Guide to Replacing Your Home's Insulation,” Accessed April 9, 2024.
