Unexpected pool damage can be expensive to repair, but a home warranty plan may help cover some of those costs.
Here’s what the USA TODAY team thinks you need to know about home warranty pool coverage. This includes what is typically covered and how much you can expect to pay.
Does my home warranty cover my pool?
Standard home warranty coverage typically does not include pools, but most offer pool coverage in extended packages or higher-end plans. In other words, if you want coverage for your pool equipment, you typically have to pay extra to add it to your insurance.
What does pool coverage typically include?
Most pool warranties cover the mechanical components of the pool equipment, including:
- heating pump
- pump system
- gasket
- primary circulation pump
- motor
- relay
- impeller
- backflush valve
- non-return valve
- filtration system
What is not covered by a pool home warranty?
When it comes to pool home warranty coverage, be sure to understand the difference between pool equipment and pool construction. Most home warranty plans that offer pool coverage focus on the equipment rather than the structure, so don’t expect coverage for foundation cracks, deck damage, liner tears, or broken tiles.
Keep in mind that spa and pool systems are complex, and even the best home warranty that covers your pool won’t cover everything. Before purchasing coverage, be sure to read the fine print to understand what is covered and what is not.
Items that may not be covered include:
- pool maintenance
- skimmer
- light
- pool cleaning
- liner
- jets
- structural defects
- seal and hose
- Automatic feeding equipment and chemicals
- decorative fountain
- pool cover
- turbo valve
- Chlorinating agents and ionizers
- fuel storage tank
- Cosmetic damage
How much does pool coverage cost?
Adding pool coverage typically increases your premium $100 to $300 per year, or $15-20 per monthvaries by company. Please note that you typically have to pay a service fee before coverage applies. Depending on the provider, it can range from $75 to $150 per claim.
While the initial cost may seem high, repairing your pool equipment can cost even more. For example, replacing a pool pump can cost hundreds of dollars, and repairing or replacing a pool heater can easily cost thousands of dollars.
Is pool coverage worth it?
It depends on the age of your pool equipment, how often you use your pool, and how comfortable you are with paying for repairs yourself. If your pool has new equipment and you have a solid emergency fund, you may not need additional coverage. However, if you can’t afford to repair major components like your heater or pump if they break down, it’s worth considering pool coverage.
Who benefits most from home warranty pool coverage?
Home warranty pool coverage typically makes the most economic sense for homeowners with older pools or aging equipment. It’s also helpful for first-time homeowners who don’t have a full understanding of pool maintenance costs and what repairs are needed. It’s also worth having coverage if you live in a warm climate and use your pool year-round, as frequent use increases wear and tear on your pool equipment.
“However, if your pool equipment is newer and under manufacturer’s warranty, or if your plan doesn’t include parts you’re really concerned about, such as damage to saltwater equipment, underground wiring, lighting, liner, or pool shell, you may not need to,” says John Yule, founding partner and product expert at Discount Salt Pool, an online store that sells saltwater pool equipment.
Best Home Warranty Company for Pool Coverage
If you need a pool covered, here are some of the best options to consider.
american home shield
With American Home Shield, you can purchase additional spa and pool coverage for about $24 per month. This covers all ground-accessible, operationally necessary parts and components of non-saltwater pool heating, pumping, and filtration systems.
liberty home security guard
Liberty Home Guard also offers optional pool and built-in spa equipment coverage as an add-on to the main plan, typically costing about $24.99 per month. Covers repairs/replacements of above-ground mechanical components such as pumps, heating systems, and filtration.
Select home warranty
Select Home Warranty’s optional Home Warranty Pool Equipment coverage covers your pool’s pumping system, filtration system, and heating system. This coverage costs about $8.33 per month, making it the most affordable price we’ve seen. You can also add coverage for hot tubs and spas, just in case portability is not an option.
How to choose the right pool coverage
Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing pool coverage:
- Check the scope details. Check to see if pool coverage is included or if an add-on is required. Also check which parts of the pool and equipment are covered.
- Upper limit of coverage: Check your per-claim limits and annual limits. If your limit is too low, you could end up paying a lot of money out of pocket for major repairs.
- Service fee: Be sure to compare prices per visit as well. When filing multiple claims, a $75 fee and a $125 fee can make a big difference.
- Waiting period: Most plans allow 30 days for coverage to begin.
- Technician rules: Some companies require the use of an approved contractor network, while others are able to hire their own technicians.
- Cancellation conditions: Before signing up, find out if the company charges a cancellation fee or what the limit on the amount of premiums that will be refunded.
- Complaint pattern: Read recent customer reviews to see if there are any complaints about denials, delays, or refund issues.
And be sure to read your provider’s contract and understand all terms. Mark Carter, a home maintenance expert and lead contributor to Homevisory, says many homeowners run into problems because they think their plans cover more than they actually do. “The fine print says it all,” he says. “Most people sign up without reading because the salesperson says it’s all-encompassing. It’s not.”
FAQ
Do all home warranties also apply to pools?
No, a standard home warranty rarely covers a pool. However, coverage may be available as an add-on or within a premium plan.
Is a pool considered part of the home system?
Usually no. Most home warranty companies treat pools as optional additional coverage, rather than major home systems such as plumbing, HVAC, and electrical. However, you can usually customize your plan to include pool and spa coverage.
Can I add pool coverage later?
Yes, many home warranty companies allow you to add pool coverage after you purchase your policy.
Is a hot tub included?
sometimes. Many home warranty providers include built-in hot tubs or spas under the same optional pool/spa add-on coverage.
