Exclusion

A specific condition, system, component, or cause-of-failure that the home warranty contract explicitly does NOT cover.

Why it matters

Exclusions are where the carrier draws the line between what marketing implies (everything mechanical) and what the contract actually pays for. Common exclusions: pre-existing conditions, code-violation repairs, refrigerant recovery, cosmetic damage. Claims denials almost always cite a specific exclusion. The exclusion list is in the contract, usually deep in section 4 or 5. Read it before you buy, not after the AC fails.

Best practices

Ask the carrier for a sample contract before signing. Highlight every exclusion that touches a system over 10 years old in your house. If a carrier refuses to provide the contract before purchase, that is a red flag.

Frequently asked

Are pre-existing conditions always excluded?

Almost always, yes. The contract typically excludes any failure that existed before the contract effective date or that would have been detectable through normal use. Documented pre-purchase failures are excluded forever.