Does a Home Warranty Cover TVs?

What TV services does a home warranty cover?

Traditional home warranty plans do not typically cover TVs as part of their basic appliance and home system protection. Standard home warranties are designed to protect major systems (like HVAC and electrical) and built-in appliances (like refrigerators and dishwashers), and electronics such as televisions are usually excluded.

That said, some home warranty companies offer optional electronics or specialty coverage add-ons. If available and purchased, these plans may cover:

• TV malfunctions from normal use
• Internal component failures
• Smart TV software or hardware issues (depending on the plan)

What’s usually not covered:

• Cosmetic damage (screen cracks, dents, scratches)
• Damage from drops, spills or improper installation
• Preexisting issues known before coverage began

Unless you buy a specific electronics or TV add-on from the warranty provider, TVs generally aren’t covered by a standard home warranty. If TV protection is important to you, always confirm coverage details, limits and exclusions before purchasing a plan.

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.

How to file a TV warranty claim

Filing a home warranty claim can feel unclear, especially for electronics like TVs. Knowing the steps ahead of time helps set expectations and avoid delays.

1. Review your contract: Check whether TV or electronics coverage is included and note exclusions, coverage limits, and service fees.
2. Gather documentation: Collect your warranty agreement, proof of active coverage, and a clear description of the issue.
3. Contact the provider: Submit a claim online or by phone. Most providers review claims within 24 to 72 hours.
4. Claim review and approval: The warranty company determines eligibility and assigns a service provider if approved.
5. Technician visit: A technician typically visits within a few business days to diagnose the problem.
6. Resolution: Based on findings, the provider may approve a repair, replacement, or deny the claim under contract terms.

Before filing a claim, set realistic expectations around timelines and outcomes. Coverage decisions depend strictly on contract terms, not the cost of the repair. Staying organized and following up promptly can help keep the process moving and reduce surprises.

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

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.