Do home warranties cover windows?

Home warranty window coverage

Home warranty companies offer plans that cover appliances and systems throughout your home. However, they normally don’t cover structural elements, including windows.

Some things that home warranties do cover:

• Washers and dryers
• Garbage disposals
• Refrigerators
• Dishwashers
• Central vacuums
• Garage door openers
• Oven, range and cooktops
• Built-in microwaves
• Trash compactors
• Pool and spa pumps
• Stand-alone freezers

Although most home warranty plans do not cover windows, the specifics are often detailed in the exclusions and limitations sections of actual contracts. Here are examples of how providers typically address window coverage:

• Policies may state: “This contract does not cover glass, window assemblies, frames, panes, or screens.”
• Common exclusions include: “Damages to windows or window seals are excluded from coverage.”
• Some contracts specify: “Home warranty does not provide coverage for window hardware, locks, or related accessories.”
• Limitations often mention: “Coverage is limited to mechanical components of covered home systems and does not extend to window replacement or repair.”

Always review the fine print of your home warranty contract for specific language regarding windows, as exclusions and limitations can vary by provider.

Why windows are often excluded from home warranty coverage

Windows are generally excluded from standard home warranty policies for several key reasons:

• Windows are structural, not mechanical: Home warranties are meant to cover appliances and systems that break down over time, like your dishwasher or HVAC. Window problems usually happen because of poor installation, damage or aging materials, not because they "wore out" from normal use.
• Many problems are preventable: Issues like cracks, broken seals or drafts are often seen as maintenance problems or the result of accidents, which warranties don’t cover.
• Repairs are expensive and vary a lot: Window repairs can cost varying amounts depending on the size, type and installation. Covering all these possibilities would make home warranties much more expensive.

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

If your home warranty company does not include window coverage, there are steps you can take to address this gap. Start by thoroughly reviewing your current home warranty documents. Look for any exclusions related to windows, as well as any available add-ons or endorsements that might include window coverage.

The terms and conditions should specify what is and isn’t covered, and some providers offer optional add-on packages for items like windows or glass breakage.

If you are unsure about your coverage, contact your home warranty company directly. Ask them to clarify whether windows are excluded and if there are any options to expand your coverage.

Inquire about the process for adding window protection, what types of damage may be covered and any waiting periods or additional costs involved. If your current policy cannot be modified, consider comparing plans from other providers that offer more comprehensive window coverage options before your renewal period.

When might windows be covered?

The good news: Your windows are likely covered to some degree. Your homeowners insurance probably covers window replacement.

Plus, if your windows are newly installed, they probably have a manufacturer’s warranty. If your home is new, the windows may be covered under a homebuilders warranty.

Builder warranties typically cover workmanship and materials for windows — such as issues with installation, leaks or hardware malfunctions — usually for one or two years. Some structural defects that impact windows may be covered for a longer period. After this initial warranty period ends, homeowners may need to rely on a traditional home warranty or homeowners insurance for future issues.

» COMPARE: Home warranty vs. home insurance

Alternatives to home warranties for window protection

Given the general lack of home warranty coverage for windows, it is essential to explore other avenues for protection. If window warranty coverage isn’t offered, consider these alternatives:

• Homeowners insurance: Usually covers window damage from specific events like fire, vandalism or storms, but not wear and tear or minor cracks. Claims are subject to a deductible.
• Manufacturer warranties: Many new windows come with warranties that cover defects like seal failures or faulty hardware, though labor and accidental damage are often excluded.
• Emergency fund: Setting aside money for repairs gives you control and quick access to funds without dealing with claims or deductibles.

Bottom line

While your home warranty probably won’t cover the repair or replacement of damaged or faulty windows, you might still have coverage. Check your homeowners insurance policy, the manufacturer’s warranty and your homebuilders warranty (if applicable) to see if any of them cover your window issues.