How to handle a denied home warranty claim
If your home warranty claim is denied, follow these steps to try to reverse the decision or find alternate coverage:
1. Review your denial letter
Read the denial letter carefully to understand why your claim was rejected. Compare the reason with your warranty contract to make sure the denial aligns with the contract terms.
2. Gather documentation
Collect all relevant documents, including proof of appliance or system installation, maintenance records, purchase receipts and any communication with the warranty provider.
3. File an appeal
Most home warranty companies offer an appeals process. Use the documentation you've gathered to dispute the denial. Be sure to meet any deadlines listed in your policy.
4. Escalate the issue
If your appeal is denied, you can escalate the issue by:
- Contacting your state attorney general's office
- Filing a complaint with the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
- Consulting with a lawyer or small claims court
5. Check coverage elsewhere
If you find there’s no recourse with your home warranty company, there are some other ways you can receive coverage. Many systems and appliances come with a manufacturer's warranty, so if your system or appliance is newer, it might be worth double-checking your manufacturer’s warranty to see if it’s still active.
Homeowners insurance and builders insurance may also be able to help. Builders insurance helps cover the systems and appliances installed during the house's construction. However, homeowners insurance only covers damages caused by a natural disaster.
What are some reasons your claim might be denied?
Home warranty plans usually have limitations and exclusions that can lead to claim denials. Most home warranties typically only cover total breakdowns due to normal wear and tear. They typically don’t cover:
- Cosmetic damage
- Damage from natural disasters
- Preexisting conditions
- Improper maintenance or installation
- Uncommon or high-end appliances
- Missing parts
- Pet, pest or animal damage
- Misuse or abuse
- Consequential or secondary damages
- Commercial products
- Structural components
- Rust or corrosion
How to avoid home warranty claim denials
Understanding how to prevent claim denials is just as important as knowing how to appeal them. Taking certain steps ahead of time can improve your chances of future claims being approved.
Here are some steps homeowners can take to avoid home warranty claim denials:
Read and understand your contract
Before you need to use your home warranty, read through your contract carefully. Make sure you know exactly what’s covered, what isn’t and any coverage limits or exclusions.
Perform regular maintenance
Most home warranty companies require proof that your systems and appliances have been properly maintained. Follow manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedules and keep records of all maintenance work.
Use licensed professionals for installations and repairs
Improper installation or do-it-yourself (DIY) fixes can void home warranty coverage. Always use certified professionals, and keep documentation of services.
Report issues as soon as they occur
Delaying a claim can complicate the process or result in denial. File a claim promptly after discovering a problem.
Avoid unauthorized repairs
Don’t try to fix the issue before filing a claim or without approval from the warranty company. This could lead to a denial on the basis of improper repair procedures.
Communicate with your provider
Document all conversations, approvals and service requests. Keeping a record of your interactions can help support your case if a dispute arises.
» RELATED: How to file a home warranty claim
FAQ
What do home warranties usually cover?
Home warranties usually cover repairs and replacements on major appliances and systems, such as refrigerators, ovens, built-in microwaves, plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling. Home warranties also typically have add-on coverage options, so you can add an appliance or system to your plan for an additional fee if it isn’t offered in one of the main plans.
Is there a limit to how many claims I can make during my contract term?
Many home warranty companies don’t have a limit on how many claims you can file during the contract term, though some do, so it’s best to check your contract for any claim limitations. Still, most companies usually have limits on repair costs per item and aggregate costs per year.
How is homeowners insurance different from a home warranty?
Home warranties cover breakdowns to systems and appliances due to normal wear and tear, while homeowners insurance only covers damage due to natural disasters or covered perils.
Bottom line
Every home warranty company should have an appeal process if your claim is denied. However, the company may ask you to show proof of installation, maintenance records and purchase receipts, so make sure you maintain proper documentation. Further, being informed and persistent can increase your chances of getting coverage or finding alternative solutions when your home warranty claim is denied.
Article sources
ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:
- Federal Trade Commission, “Warranties for New Homes.” Accessed March 28, 2026.
