Do home warranties cover fixtures?
Check fixture coverage to avoid costly surprises later
You probably don’t think about fixtures around your home, like faucets for light fixtures, much until they break. While these little inconveniences aren’t as pricey to fix as a broken washing machine or refrigerator, replacing or repairing them can strain your budget. If you have a home warranty, you may be able to save on fixture malfunctions. Here’s what you need to know.
Most home warranty companies cover some type of fixture replacement and repair.
Jump to insightYou may need to upgrade your package or get fixture coverage as an add-on.
Jump to insightThere are limitations and exclusions in your contract that could get your claim denied.
Jump to insightWhat fixture services does a home warranty cover?
While all your fixtures may not be covered, your home warranty company probably covers at least some. It all depends on the package you have. For example, some home warranty contracts cover faucets under the plumbing service plan.
Light fixtures, like wall sconces, overhead lights and chandeliers, may be protected under contracts with electrical coverage. Heating fixtures, like thermostats, may also be protected under your HVAC coverage.
The home warranty company usually covers labor and materials to repair the fixture if you have coverage. If the technician cannot fix it, they will replace the fixture.
Potential exclusions to fixture home warranty coverage
It's important to read your home warranty contract to understand the limitations and exclusions. Your claim to get your fixtures repaired or replaced could be denied if the issue violates the terms of your contract. Here are some things that could lead to a denied fixture claim:
- The fixture is a bathtub or a sink basin
- Damage to the fixtures was caused by factors other than normal wear and tear
- Improper fixture installation
- Inadequate maintenance of the fixtures
- A manufacturer's warranty already provides coverage for the fixtures
- Location of the fixtures outside the home (like a water hose tap) or in a crawlspace
Your policy also might have a coverage limit for the fixtures. This means the home warranty company will cover repairs or replacements only up to a specific amount. Any expenses beyond this limit will be your responsibility to cover.
What to do if your home warranty doesn’t cover fixtures
Your home warranty company may not cover the particular fixture you need to fix in your current package. You can probably upgrade to a higher package or get coverage as an add-on, but this will increase your home warranty costs. Since fixture repair and replacement can be inexpensive, depending on the project, you’ll need to weigh whether adding to your home warranty is worth it.
There are other options, too. If fire, flooding or other catastrophes caused your problem, your homeowner’s insurance may cover it.
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.
Does homeowner’s insurance cover home fixtures?
Your homeowner’s insurance may cover repairing or replacing home fixtures like lighting, faucets, tubs and sinks if an “act of God” caused the damage.
Do home warranties cover a leaky faucet?
If your home warranty package covers plumbing, you probably have leaky faucet coverage.
Bottom line
Home warranties typically cover plumbing, electrical and heating fixtures. However, coverage can vary depending on the specific terms of your home warranty contract and the company you choose. Be sure to review your policy to understand what fixtures are covered and any limitations or exclusions that may apply.
