Does a home warranty cover pools?

Home warranty pool coverage

Most home warranty companies provide pool coverage in extended packages or higher-tier plans. Many companies also offer pool coverage through package add-ons.

When it comes to home warranty coverage for pools, it is important to understand the difference between pool equipment and pool structure. Most home warranty plans that offer pool coverage focus on equipment, not the structure.

Home warranties typically cover these pool parts:

• Heating pumps
• Pumping systems
• Gaskets
• Primary circulator pumps
• Motors
• Relays
• Impellers
• Back flush valves
• Check valves
• Filtration systems

Pool structure coverage — like the pool shell, walls, liner and decking — is almost always excluded. This means damage such as cracks in the pool shell, leaks in the walls or issues with the decking are not covered.

What does a home warranty typically 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.

Pool warranty coverage exclusions

Even if your home warranty covers pools, your claim may still be denied for various reasons. Most companies offer plans with many limitations and exclusions and only cover damage from normal wear and tear.

Here are some items that may not be covered:

• Skimmers
• Lights
• Pool sweeps
• Liners
• Jets
• Underground or inaccessible lines
• Cleaning equipment
• Solar equipment
• Structural defects
• Timers
• Remote controls
• Seals and hoses
• Automatic feeders and chemicals
• Ornamental fountains
• Pool cover
• Refrigerant reclamation
• Turbo valves
• Chlorinators and ionizers
• Fuel storage tanks
• Cosmetic damage

Coverage caps

Many home warranty plans limit the amount they will cover for costs and repairs. You are responsible for the difference if the repair costs exceed the limit. This is typically called a coverage cap. Most home warranty plans have coverage caps for pools anywhere from $500 to $1,200. Additionally, saltwater pools usually have a higher limit cap than freshwater pools.

Home warranty claim process for pool repairs

If you need to file a claim for pool repairs under your home warranty, follow these steps to ensure a smooth process:

1. Review your policy: Before filing, check your plan to confirm that your pool and the specific issue are covered.
2. Document the problem: Take photos or videos of the damage or malfunctioning pool equipment.
3. Contact your home warranty provider: Call or log into your provider’s online portal to report the issue.
4. Submit necessary documentation: Provide any required documents, including photos, maintenance records and proof of regular care.
5. Schedule an inspection: The provider may send a technician to assess the damage and verify coverage.
6. Receive approval: Once the claim is approved, you’ll receive confirmation and details about next steps.
7. Repair or replacement: The provider will arrange for repairs or replacement of covered parts, minus any service fee you are required to pay.
8. Follow up: Keep track of progress and follow up with the provider if there are delays or additional issues.

What to do if your home warranty doesn’t cover pools

If you find out your home warranty plan doesn’t cover pools, there are some other options. Many home warranty companies often offer coverage for pools and spas as an add-on, which can add to the package price. Your homeowners or builders insurance may also cover damage to your pool in certain situations.

Choosing a home warranty for pool coverage

Picking a home warranty that covers pools takes careful comparison. Here are some tips:

• Review coverage details: See if pool coverage is included or requires an add-on. Check what parts of your pool and equipment are covered.
• Understand coverage caps: Each provider sets a maximum payout for pool repairs or replacements. Make sure these limits fit your pool’s needs.
• Look for excluded items: Read the contract to find exclusions, like liners, concrete surfaces or specific equipment.
• Check provider reputation: Look at customer reviews and ratings, especially how companies handle pool claims.

Always read your provider’s contract thoroughly so you understand all terms, including any pool coverage exclusions or limits.

Bottom line

A home warranty can provide coverage for repairs, saving you hundreds to thousands of dollars a year on parts and repairs. However, not all home warranty providers include pool coverage, so it's important to check the specific terms of your contract. If you have a pool and want coverage, you may need to inquire about adding it to your home warranty plan, or see if your builders or homeowners insurance covers pools.