Does a home warranty cover TVs?
Check TV coverage to avoid costly surprises later
Home warranties typically cover appliances and systems found in the home, like dishwashers, HVAC, refrigerators and plumbing. Televisions don’t fit in either of those categories, but some home warranties still cover TVs. Here’s what you need to know.
Some home warranty companies cover TVs through add-on packages.
Jump to insightYour contract typically has limitations and exclusions that could lead to a claim denial.
Jump to insightCoverage caps can limit how much the warranty company will pay for TV repair or replacement.
Jump to insightWhat TV services does a home warranty cover?
Televisions probably won’t be part of your home warranty’s base package, but your TV is probably covered if you have an electronics package or add-on. If you have coverage, your home warranty company will typically pay for the repairs or replacement of your television, including parts and labor. The company will also find a repair technician for you.
Potential exclusions to TV home warranty coverage
More than likely, your home warranty contract has limitations and exclusions that could lead to a claim denial. Here are some examples of things that could get your TV claim denied:
- Cosmetic damage
- Screen cracks
- Damage from something other than normal wear and tear
- Improper wall installation
- Improper maintenance (like not connecting it to a surge protector)
- TVs that are still covered by a manufacturer’s warranty
- High-end TVs
- Preexisting problems
- Age
Coverage caps can also limit how much the warranty company will pay for television repair or replacement. For example, if your plan offers $200 worth of coverage for your TV, and the repair costs $500, then you would need to pay the remaining $300.
What to do if your home warranty doesn’t cover TVs
While televisions aren’t typically included in home warranty packages, some companies offer coverage as part of an electronics add-on plan. Adding an electronics package can increase your home warranty costs, but it can be worth it since TV repairs can cost anywhere from $200 to $500 each.
If your home warranty doesn’t cover TVs, you may want to consider switching to a company that does. ARW Home offers an electronics-only plan for an unlimited number of devices through the Ultimate Electronics Protection Plan.
There are some other options, too. If your television is newer, it may be covered under the manufacturer’s warranty. Your homeowners insurance may cover your television if it was damaged by vandalism, robbery, flooding or fire.
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.
Will my homeowners insurance cover a broken TV?
Your homeowners insurance may cover a broken TV if the damage was caused by an “act of God” like a flood or fire or if it was caused by vandalism or a robbery.
Does a warranty cover a cracked TV screen?
Most warranties, including manufacturer warranties and home warranties, do not cover a cracked TV screen.
Bottom line
Home warranties typically cover major home systems and appliances, such as HVAC systems, electrical systems, plumbing, kitchen appliances and sometimes even certain types of built-in appliances like trash compactors or garage door openers. However, coverage for electronics like TVs is less common.
While some home warranty plans may offer optional coverage for additional items like TVs, it's essential to review the specifics of your policy to understand what is and isn't covered.
