Do home warranties cover sump pumps?
Check sump pump coverage to avoid costly surprises later
If you live in an area that floods, you know how useful a sump pump can be. It can prevent foundation problems, mold and wall warping. When your sump pump breaks down, you could be looking at major repair costs. On average, sump pump replacement can cost between $308 and $747.
Your home warranty can save you from expensive repair costs or replacements. Here are some things you should know about home warranty sump pump coverage.
Most home warranty companies cover sump pump replacement and repair.
Jump to insightYou may need to upgrade your package or get sump pump coverage as an add-on.
Jump to insightThere are limitations and exclusions in your contract that could get your claim denied.
Jump to insightWhat sump pump services does a home warranty cover?
Many home warranty companies offer sump pump coverage. If it isn’t included in the base package, it can usually be found in higher-tier packages or as an add-on. Home warranty coverage typically includes the repair and replacement of sump pumps, including labor.
Be aware, though, that companies differ on what sump pump coverage they offer. Some may not cover sump pumps over a certain age limit or specific types. For example, some companies will only cover groundwater sump pumps.
Potential exclusions to sump pump home warranty coverage
In addition to age and type, your home warranty contract will have other limitations and exclusions. Here are some things that may get your claim denied:
- The sump pump was damaged by something other than normal wear and tear.
- Your sump pump wasn’t installed properly.
- You haven’t properly maintained your sump pump.
- A manufacturer’s warranty already covers your sump pump.
- Your sump pump is located outside of the home or in a crawl space.
- Your sump pump is a portable or non-hard, piped-installed unit.
- The problem is due to backup power assemblies.
Your sump pump may also have a coverage cap in your policy. This means your home warranty company will only pay up to a certain amount to repair or replace your sump pump. Anything left over will be your responsibility to pay.
What to do if your home warranty doesn’t cover sump pumps
It’s pretty unlikely that your home warranty company doesn’t cover sump pumps. You may just need to upgrade to a higher package or get coverage as an add-on, increasing your home warranty costs. So, you’ll need to weigh the coverage you get with the potential repair or replacement costs to see if adding to your home warranty is worth it.
FAQ
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.
Does homeowners insurance cover a sump pump?
Typically, homeowners insurance will cover damage from flooding (if you have flood insurance) but doesn’t cover the sump pump. Check with your insurance company to see exactly what your policy covers.
What is the life expectancy of a sump pump?
Sump pumps can last around seven to 10 years with proper maintenance.
Bottom line
Many home warranty plans do cover sump pumps. However, coverage can vary depending on the specific terms of your home warranty contract and the provider you choose. Reviewing your policy to understand what is covered and any limitations or exclusions that may apply to your sump pump is important.
If you're unsure, contacting your home warranty provider to clarify your coverage options is always a good idea.
Article sources
ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:
- Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, “How Long Do Sump Pumps Last? And Signs It's Time for a Replacement.” Accessed Feb. 27, 2024.
