Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Appliances?

When an appliance breaks down unexpectedly, the repair or replacement costs can be a big financial burden.

As a homeowner, you may wonder if your insurance policy can help cover these costs. It’s important to understand the details of your homeowners insurance and how it might or might not extend to your appliances. I have been educating consumers about insurance for over 20 years and will explain everything you need to know to better protect your home and its essential equipment. Keep reading.

When Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Appliances?

Appliances are essential in our daily lives, and when they are damaged by unexpected events, it can be costly to repair or replace them, so it’s important to understand what your homeowners policy covers. Below are the common scenarios when your homeowners insurance might cover appliance damage.

In Case Of A Fire Event

If an appliance is damaged by a fire, homeowners insurance may cover the cost to repair or replace it, whether the fire happens inside your home or in a separate structure on your property. Fire is a common covered peril, so most policies include protection against it.

Explosion

If an appliance is damaged by an explosion, such as a gas leak or appliance malfunction, your homeowners insurance could help pay for the damage. This coverage usually applies if the explosion is accidental and not caused by neglect or improper maintenance.

Theft

If an appliance is stolen from your home, your personal property coverage might help replace it, depending on your policy. This coverage typically applies to appliances that are portable or can be unplugged and moved.

Vandalism

If an appliance is damaged intentionally through vandalism, your homeowners insurance may cover the repair or replacement costs, as long as it’s a covered event. This typically applies if someone deliberately breaks or damages your appliances during an unlawful act.

Hail Or Windstorm

Appliances damaged by a windstorm or hail, such as when debris hits an appliance, might be covered by your homeowners insurance, including damage to items like water heaters. This protection usually covers exterior damage to appliances located near windows or outside walls.

Riots Or Civil Disturbance

If appliances are damaged during a riot or civil disturbance, your insurance might cover the repair or replacement costs if such events are listed as covered perils in your policy. Damage from protests, looting, or vandalism during a riot is often covered in standard policies.

Power Surge

If a power surge damages your appliances, homeowners insurance may help cover the repair or replacement costs, especially if the surge was caused by a covered event, like a lightning strike. Some policies may also offer specific coverage or endorsements for power surges.

When Does Homeowners Insurance Not Cover Appliances?

While homeowners insurance can help with appliance damage, there are situations where it won’t cover the costs. Here are five common cases when appliances might not be covered:

Normal Wear And Tear

Insurance doesn’t cover damage caused by regular use over time. For example, if your washing machine breaks down because it’s old, that’s your responsibility, not insurance. Appliances naturally wear out, and replacing them is part of normal home maintenance.

Lack Of Maintenance

If your appliance is damaged because you didn’t take care of it properly, insurance won’t help. For instance, if you don’t clean your dryer and it catches fire, insurance likely won’t cover the damage. Regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary to avoid this kind of problem.

Damage From Flood

Standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover damage from floods, so if your appliance is damaged by flooding, you’ll need separate flood insurance. Flood damage is considered a separate risk and needs its own coverage.

Damage From Earthquake

Damage caused by an earthquake, including appliances, is not covered by regular homeowners insurance. You’d need extra coverage for this. Earthquakes are considered a rare and specific risk that requires additional protection.

Intentional Damage

If the appliance is damaged on purpose, whether by you or someone else, insurance won’t cover it. Intentional damage is seen as an avoidable risk and is excluded from most policies.

Types Of Homeowners Insurance For Appliances

Homeowners insurance doesn’t always cover all appliance issues, but there are other types of coverage that can help protect your appliances. Here are three important options:

Home Warranty

A home warranty is a service contract that helps cover the cost of repairs or replacement for major home systems and appliances, like your refrigerator, washing machine, or HVAC system. This is different from homeowners insurance and offers extra protection, especially for appliances that wear out over time.

What it covers:

• Appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, and washers/dryers
• Home systems such as plumbing, electrical, and heating/cooling
• Repairs or replacements due to normal wear and tear

Equipment Breakdown Coverage

Equipment breakdown coverage is an add-on to homeowners insurance that helps cover the repair or replacement costs when your home appliances or systems break down due to mechanical failure or electrical problems. This extra coverage is good for protecting against unexpected breakdowns.

What it covers:

• Breakdown of major appliances like refrigerators, water heaters, and washing machines
• Repairs from mechanical or electrical issues

Appliance Warranty

An appliance warranty is a service contract for a specific appliance, usually offered when you buy a new appliance. It covers the cost of repairs or replacement if the appliance breaks down due to defects or mechanical problems.

What it covers:

• Problems caused by defects or workmanship
• Mechanical breakdowns within the warranty period
• Repairs or replacement costs for the appliance

How To Prevent Appliance Damage

Taking care of your appliances can help extend their lifespan and prevent costly repairs. Here are some simple tips to keep your appliances in good working order:

Regular Maintenance: Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions to keep appliances running smoothly. This may include cleaning filters, checking hoses, and lubricating moving parts. Regular maintenance helps prevent breakdowns and ensures your appliances work efficiently.

Keep Appliances Clean: Dirt and grime can cause appliances to malfunction. Clean appliances regularly, including removing lint from the dryer, wiping down refrigerator coils, and cleaning dishwasher filters. A clean appliance runs better and lasts longer.

Use Appliances Properly: Always use appliances according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Avoid overloading washing machines or dishwashers, and don’t run the dryer with items that can catch fire. Proper use reduces the risk of damage and wear.

Address Issues Early: If you notice any unusual sounds, leaks, or performance issues with your appliances, address them immediately. Small problems can quickly become bigger, more expensive issues if left unchecked.

Check for Leaks and Drips: Water leaks can cause serious damage to appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines. Inspect hoses, seals, and connections for leaks and replace worn-out parts immediately.