As a homeowner, dealing with unexpected water damage can be a nightmare. Water damage can be caused by various reasons, such as burst pipes, leaky roofs, and faulty appliances. Repairing the damages caused by water can be expensive and time-consuming. If you have a home warranty, you may be wondering if it covers water damage. In this article, we will discuss what home warranties cover and if they cover water damage.
Water damage is one of the most common problems homeowners face, and it can be caused by various reasons. Repairing the damages caused by water can be expensive, which is why many homeowners consider buying a home warranty to protect themselves from unexpected repairs. However, many homeowners are not sure if home warranties cover water damage. In this article, we will answer this question and discuss the coverage of home warranties in detail.
Table of Contents
What is a home warranty?
A home warranty is a service contract that covers the cost of repairs or replacement of major home appliances and systems. Home warranties are different from home insurance, which only covers damages caused by natural disasters or accidents. Home warranties cover the cost of repairs or replacements of appliances or systems due to normal wear and tear.
Types of home warranty plans
There are two types of home warranty plans: systems plans and appliance plans. Systems plans cover major home systems, such as heating, plumbing, and electrical systems. Appliance plans cover major home appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and ovens. Some home warranty companies offer a combination of both plans.
Coverage of home warranties
Home warranty coverage varies depending on the plan and the company. Generally, home warranties cover the cost of repairing or replacing appliances or systems due to normal wear and tear. Home warranty plans may also cover the cost of labor and parts. Some home warranty companies offer additional coverage, such as pest control, garage door openers, and pool and spa equipment.
What is water damage?
Water damage is the damage caused by water to a home or property. Water damage can be caused by various reasons, such as burst pipes, leaky roofs, and faulty appliances. Water damage can cause structural damage, mold growth, and health hazards.
Causes of water damage
Water damage can be caused by various reasons, such as:
- Burst or leaking pipes
- Faulty appliances, such as washing machines and dishwashers
- Leaky roofs
- Natural disasters, such as floods and hurricanes
Does a home warranty cover water damage?
Most home warranty companies do not cover water damage. Home warranties only cover damages caused by normal wear and tear of appliances and systems. Water damage is usually caused by external factors, such as floods and hurricanes, which are not covered by home warranties.
Home warranty companies that cover water damage
There are some home warranty companies that offer water damage coverage as an add-on to their plans. Some of the home warranty companies that cover water damage include:
- American Home Shield
- Select Home Warranty
- Choice Home Warranty
- Total Home Protection
- First American Home Warranty
What is not covered by home warranties?
Home warranties do not cover damages caused by natural disasters or accidents, such as fires and earthquakes. Home warranties also do not cover pre-existing conditions or damages caused by improper maintenance.
How to file a claim for water damage?
If you have water damage, the first step is to contact your home insurance provider. If you have a home warranty that covers water damage, contact your home warranty provider. You will need to file a claim with your provider and provide documentation of the damages. Once your claim is approved, the home warranty provider will send a contractor to assess the damages and provide an estimate for repairs or replacement.
Prevention is better than cure
Preventing water damage is always better than dealing with the damages caused by it. Some tips to prevent water damage include:
- Regularly inspecting and maintaining appliances and systems, such as washing machines, dishwashers, and plumbing systems
- Fixing leaks and damages immediately
- Regularly cleaning gutters and downspouts
- Installing a sump pump in your basement
Home Insurance vs. Home Warranty
Home insurance and home warranty are often confused with each other, but they are two different things. Home insurance covers damages caused by natural disasters or accidents, such as fires and earthquakes. Home warranty covers the cost of repairs or replacement of major home appliances and systems due to normal wear and tear.
Conclusion
Water damage can be a nightmare for homeowners, and repairing the damages caused by water can be expensive. Home warranties are a great way to protect yourself from unexpected repairs, but most home warranties do not cover water damage. However, some home warranty companies offer water damage coverage as an add-on to their plans. It’s important to read the terms and conditions of your home warranty carefully to understand what is covered and what is not.
What is a home warranty?
A home warranty is a service contract that covers the cost of repairs or replacement of major home appliances and systems.
What is water damage?
Water damage is the damage caused by water to a home or property.
Does a home warranty cover water damage?
Most home warranty companies do not cover water damage. However, some home warranty companies offer water damage coverage as an add-on to their plans.
What is the difference between home insurance and home warranty?
Home insurance covers damages caused by natural disasters or accidents, such as fires and earthquakes. Home warranty covers the cost of repairs or replacement of major home appliances and systems due to normal wear and tear.
How can I prevent water damage?
You can prevent water damage by regularly inspecting and maintaining appliances and systems, fixing leaks and damages immediately, regularly cleaning gutters and downspouts, and installing a sump pump in your basement.