What Home Warranties Actually Cover (and the Exclusions to Watch)
Understanding the fine print on wear-and-tear, maintenance logs, and pre-existing conditions separates satisfied policyholders from frustrated claimants.
The Definition of Normal Wear and Tear
Most plans cover mechanical failure caused by ordinary everyday operation, but routinely exclude damage from deferred maintenance, rust, corrosion, or mismatched HVAC components.
Trade Call Service Fees and Cap Limits
Examine the per-incident trade call fee alongside coverage caps. While a premium plan might advertise full HVAC coverage, secondary limits on refrigerant recapture or ductwork modification can lead to out-of-pocket expenses.
Documenting Routine Service Annually
Keep receipts from annual furnace tune-ups and professional AC cleanings. When filing a high-dollar claim, having a verifiable service record prevents claims examiners from denying coverage based on lack of maintenance.
Read the sample contract terms before signing. Knowing the exact exclusions gives you complete control over your home repair budget.
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