Understanding what’s NOT covered is as important as knowing what is. These exclusions apply across virtually all home warranty companies.
Pre-existing conditions. Anything that failed before your coverage started. This is the #1 denial reason. See our pre-existing conditions guide →.
Improper installation. Equipment that was installed incorrectly — by the builder, a previous owner, or a non-licensed contractor. If it was broken before you bought it, the warranty won’t fix it.
Improper prior repair. A system or appliance that was previously repaired incorrectly or by an unlicensed contractor. The faulty repair itself isn’t covered.
Lack of maintenance. Failure attributed to missed maintenance (dirty HVAC filters, unmaintained water heater, lack of annual HVAC service). Document your maintenance.
Cosmetic damage. Dents, scratches, discoloration, broken door handles, cracked glass — anything aesthetic.
Secondary damage. Water damage to your walls from a plumbing leak; food spoilage from a refrigerator failure — consequential damages from a covered failure are not covered.
Permit and code upgrades. When a repair requires bringing things up to current building code (new wiring gauge, updated fittings, new refrigerant type), the upgrade costs aren’t covered.
Haul-away and disposal fees. Removing the old appliance or system when it’s replaced.
Structural components. Foundation, framing, roof structure, walls — these are your home itself, not systems and appliances.
Exterior service lines. Water main from street, sewer lateral from house to street — not covered. HomeServe covers these →.
Sprinkler/irrigation systems. Underground irrigation is excluded on nearly all standard plans.
Swimming pools and spas (without add-on). Covered only as an add-on on plans that offer it.
Garage door (the door itself). Most plans cover the opener motor, not the door, springs, or tracks.
Security systems. Home security, alarm systems — not covered.
Pest control and pest damage. Termite damage to wiring or plumbing; pest control services — not covered. Some OneGuard plans in AZ include pest control.
Solar panels. Excluded from standard coverage; some companies offer add-ons.
Outdoor components. Exterior faucets/hose bibs, outdoor outlets, outdoor lighting (except deck/patio lights as part of interior circuits on some plans).
Geothermal heating systems. Excluded by most standard plans; check if you have one.
Medical equipment. Home elevators, stairlifts, wheelchair lifts — excluded.
Low-voltage systems. Smart home wiring, ethernet, coaxial, phone lines — not covered under electrical.
| Event | Home Warranty | Homeowners Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| HVAC failure (wear) | ✓ (with caps) | ✗ |
| Water heater failure | ✓ (with caps) | ✗ |
| Lightning strike damage | ✗ | ✓ |
| Flood damage | ✗ | ✗ (separate flood policy) |
| Fire damage | ✗ | ✓ |
| Storm/hail damage | ✗ | ✓ |
| Theft | ✗ | ✓ |
| Liability | ✗ | ✓ |
| Exterior service line failure | ✗ | Usually ✗ |
There’s a coverage gap between what homeowners insurance covers (sudden events) and what home warranties cover (wear and tear). Things that fall in between:
Plan for these out of pocket.