Does a Home Warranty Cover Plumbing?

A home warranty is a valuable investment for any homeowner. This protection plan covers damages and repairs to your home’s major systems and appliances. But does a home warranty cover plumbing?

In this guide, we will discuss what is covered by a home warranty and whether or not plumbing is included. We will also provide some tips on how to prevent plumbing problems from happening in the first place.

What is Plumbing?

Plumbing is the system that supplies water and removes wastewater from the home. It includes all of the pipes, fixtures, and appliances that are used to distribute water throughout the house.

Do Home Warranties Cover Plumbing?

Yes, home warranties typically cover plumbing system issues, but only if the issues stem from normal aging and wear and not from incidents like accidental damage. However, each individual policy varies, so it’s important to read the fine print before you buy.  

Do Home Warranties Cover Plumbing?

Home warranties vary in what they cover, but most plans include protection for the home’s major systems and appliances.

Here are some of the most common items that are covered by a home warranty:

  • Heating systems - furnace, boiler, heat pump.
  • Cooling systems - central air conditioning, window unit.
  • Plumbing system - water heater, pipes, faucets, drains.
  • Electrical system - wiring, outlets, switches.
  • Appliances - refrigerator, stovetop, oven, dishwasher, washer, dryer.

Possible Reasons Why Your Plumbing Might Not Be Covered

While most home warranties cover the plumbing system, there are a few reasons why it might not be included in your plan.

  • Misuse - If you accidentally break a plumbing fixture or appliance, it might not be covered by your warranty.
  • Pre-existing damage - If there is already damage to the plumbing system when you purchase the home warranty, it will not be covered.
  • Neglect - If you do not properly maintain your plumbing system, it may not be covered if something goes wrong.

5 Warning Signs You Have A Major Plumbing Problem

If you’re not sure whether or not your home warranty covers plumbing, there are some warning signs that can help you decide. Here are five of the most common signals that you have a major plumbing problem:

  • Water is leaking from pipes or fixtures.
  • The water heater is making strange noises.
  • There is water backing up in the drains.
  • The toilet is overflowing.
  • The refrigerator water line is leaking.

In order to avoid costly plumbing repairs, it’s important to take some preventive steps.

Tips for Preventing Plumbing Problems

There are a few things that you can do to prevent plumbing problems from happening in your home.

Keep your drains clear by using a drain strainer and regularly cleaning the trap.

  • Check for leaks and fix them as soon as possible. A leaky faucet can waste hundreds of gallons of water each year.
  • Never pour grease or cooking oil down the drain. This can cause clogs and backups. Instead, dispose of them in a safe manner.
  • Inspect your water heater every year and replace the anode rod when needed. This will help to extend the life of your water heater.

Will the Home Warranty Replace the Faucet?

It depends on the home warranty. Most plans do not cover cosmetic damage, so you would likely have to pay for a new faucet out of pocket. However, if the faucet is damaged as a result of a covered issue (e.g., a leak), then it may be covered by the policy.

Plumbing Issues That ARE Covered by Home Warranties

Here are many plumbing issues a home warranty may cover.

  • Clogs that can be resolved with a sewer cable
  • Toilet, sink, and shower parts
  • Damage to water lines and gas lines
  • Water heaters— This includes those that are gas, electric, tankless, and full tank.

Plumbing Issues That are NOT covered by Home Warranties

There are many plumbing-related issues that may not be covered by a home warranty. 

  • Bathtubs, sinks, and shower systems
  • Any lines that are damaged or blocked due to debris or tree roots breaking through
  • Disruptions in the plumbing system that exist outside of your home’s foundation, such as damaged or broken drain and sewer lines.

How to Determine What Your Home Warranty Covers on the Plumbing in Your Home?

When it comes to plumbing, most home warranty companies cover the same things.

That said, it’s important that you read your policy carefully to determine what is and isn’t covered. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to call the home warranty company’s customer service. They should be able to help you with your specific concerns.

How to File a Home Warranty Claim for Plumbing Repairs?

If you experience a plumbing issue and it is covered under your home warranty policy, here are the steps to take in order to file a claim.

Step #1

Notify your home warranty company as soon as the issue arises.

Step #2

Collect evidence of the problem. This could include photos, videos, or a written report from a qualified professional.

Step #3

Submit your claim to your home warranty company. This can usually be done online or over the phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

1

Does home warranty coverage include water damage from a plumbing leak?

Water damage from a plumbing leak is usually not covered under home warranty policies. However, if the leak is caused by a covered issue, such as a broken water line, then it may be eligible for coverage.

2

Does the home warranty cover repair or replacement of the plumbing in my home?

It depends on your policy. Some home warranties will cover the repair or replacement of certain plumbing elements, while others will only cover damages that are a direct result of a covered issue.

3

Is plumbing systems coverage available as an add-on?

Yes, many home warranty companies offer plumbing systems coverage as an optional add-on. This can be a great option if your home has older plumbing or you are worried about potential problems down the road.

Plumbing is one of the most important systems in your home, and it’s essential to know what is and isn’t covered under your home warranty policy. By understanding the basics of plumbing coverage, you can be better prepared in the event that something goes wrong.