Does a home warranty cover gas lines?
Check gas line coverage to avoid costly surprises later
If you suspect a gas leak, the first thing you should do is get out of the house and call the gas company to turn the gas off. Next, you’ll need repairs. Your home warranty may be able to help. Here’s what you need to know.
Some home warranty companies cover gas lines.
Jump to insightThere are limitations and exclusions in your contract that may get your claim denied.
Jump to insightYou may have options if your home warranty doesn’t cover gas lines.
Jump to insightWhat gas line services does a home warranty cover?
Repairing or replacing gas lines might be included under service line coverage in your home warranty contract. However, the extent of coverage can differ depending on the home warranty company you're with. You’ll need to review your contract to get the specifics. If you are covered, the company usually takes care of the costs for parts and labor needed to fix or replace your gas lines.
Potential exclusions to gas line home warranty coverage
It's important to know that even with top-notch home warranty companies, your contract might contain limitations and exclusions that could affect your claim. For example, if your gas lines showed issues before your warranty kicked in, your claim could be denied. If the warranty company thinks the gas lines haven’t been properly installed or maintained, you may also be denied coverage.
The location of the gas line is important, too. For example, The Home Service Club only covers gas lines “within the perimeter of the main foundation of the home.”
Also, some companies might limit their coverage for repairs. So, if your gas line repair costs $3,000 but your plan only covers up to $1,000, you'd be responsible for the remaining $2,000.
What to do if your home warranty doesn’t cover gas lines
If your home warranty doesn't cover gas lines, here are some steps you can take:
- Contact your home warranty provider to inquire about optional coverage for gas lines. Some providers may offer add-on coverage for an additional fee, which could help protect your gas lines against unexpected repairs or replacements.
- If your home warranty doesn't cover gas lines, you may need to explore alternative protection options. This could include seeking coverage through your homeowner's insurance policy.
- Budget for any potential repairs or replacements out of pocket. Consider setting aside funds in an emergency repair fund to cover unexpected expenses related to your gas lines.
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 homeowner’s insurance cover gas leaks?
Home insurance typically covers damage caused by gas leaks, like fires or explosions, but not the repair of the leak.
How do you tell if there’s a gas leak?
You can usually tell by smell. Natural gas has a pungent rotten egg smell, which is added to make it easy to detect when there is a gas leak.
Bottom line
Home warranty coverage for gas lines can vary depending on your policy's specific terms and conditions and the provider you choose. In general, some home warranty plans may offer coverage for gas lines.
However, it's important to review your home warranty contract to understand the extent of coverage for gas lines and any limitations or exclusions that may apply. Some providers may exclude coverage for certain types of gas lines or specific components, while others may offer optional coverage for an additional fee.
Article sources
- The Home Service Club, “Home Warranties 101: Gas Line Warranty.” Accessed April 5, 2024.
- CT.gov, “What To Do If You Smell Natural Gas.” Accessed April 5, 2024.
