Would replacing an old toilet be covered under a home warranty?

Question

We just bought a home about 6 months ago. We have updated the master bathroom but it still needs a few things done to it. The main bathroom has a horrible toilet and shower. The former owner updated 80% of the house but not the bathrooms. The toilet is low even for me. I'm 5'2" and my husband is 6'1". The original owner was a small older lady. To flush the toilet you need to hold down the handle. The shower plumbing is leaky. The house came with a home maintenance warranty for almost everything.
My question is should we use the warranty for the plumbing problems?
We're trying to wait until next February for our tax refund. Money is tight because of the down payment on the house!

My question is should we use the warranty for the plumbing problems?

We're trying to wait until next February for our tax refund.  Money is tight because of the down payment on the house!

Janet Pizaro · Answer

If they house came with a home maintenance warranty it must state what is covered. Only you can fine that out.

Shari · Answer

I'm not a contract lawyer and I've never had experience with a home warranty but I would think its purpose is intended to cover problems that may develop after sale like a leak in the roof, a hot water heater that dies, a kitchen appliance that requires repair, a burst pipe etc., not replacement for remodeling/updating purposes. If the shower plumbing has started to leak since you purchased the house, that might be covered. The toilet...well that's kind of iffy. Perhaps the fact you have to hold the handle down to get it to flush would qualify for replacement under the warranty but probably not for the size of the toilet, since you could clearly see how small it was prior to purchasing the house and you bought the house anyway. I would think the real estate agent/broker who represented you in the sale could interpret the terms of the home warranty and help you determine what is, and isn't, covered. If you haven't done so already, it would be worth a call to him/her to ask.

Trish Lally · Answer

Most likely; only if the toilet is defective.

Barb · Answer

Some toilet brands have as much as a ten year warranty. Some may even have a lifetime warranty. Check with the brand.

Crafting-in-the-desert · Answer

Have you checked with your utility company to find out if they have any programs to help you replace your toilet?I know that there are some places that are offering to replace a toilet with a new low flow model. Or offer a rebate upon purchase. My sister had hers replaced for free! She also received a free air conditioner (different program).

Sandra · Answer

This question is why our insurance premiums continue to increase so much each year due some people trying to make ridiculous claims on household/building insurance. Insurance is not meant to cover general wear and tear on items. From what you say your toilet is old and just needs replacing which is the owners (you) responsibility to replace.

Rus1058682 · Answer

it is rather simple and cheap for you to replace the 'guts' of the toilet, usually done in 10 min. As for the leaky shower, you might be able to do that yourself also. I would not use the warranty if the leak isn't causing damage to walls or floors.. And as far as the 'size' of the toilet, well that is considered a personal preference more than a repair.. R

Tetiana Shpek · Answer

definitely yes

Mogie · Answer

Different policies can have different requirements so you need to get your policy out and read it.

Some companies will only cover something if it broken not just because it is older or worn. Good luck with this!

Alice Norton · Answer

I agree with the previous poster. Just check your policy plan. If it covers the toilet replacement, there is info about it there. I personally read this documentation and addressed AFC Home Club customer service here when bought their home warranty to be ready for unexpected situations in the future.

Gathered In The Kitchen · Answer

It never hurts to call and ask if it would be covered under your home warranty plan. Good luck!

Johnavallance82 · Answer

Hi. Well it seems to me, IT WILL NOT HURT TO ASK!

Janice · Answer

Read through your warranty and if you don't learn the answer, call the insurance company's customer service number and ask them the answer as they'll be the ones who decide and pay. None of us can provide a for sure, correct answer unless you post the entire warranty info. In my opinion, it won't be covered, but it is just my best guess. Good luck! BTW, you said the handle had to be held down to flush the toilet correctly....this could likely be repaired by adjusting the float inside the toilet.

Johnavallance82 · Answer

Is it substandard? or has it been well used and damaged over time?

Kim |Exquisitely Unremarkable · Answer

You may need to call the administrator of the warranty for that specific answer.

Adrienne Carrie Hubbard | Crafty Little Gnome · Answer

Hi Pat! You should check your home warranty plan about it.

Johnavallance82 · Answer

You can only but ask?

Deb K · Answer

Hi Pat, sadly the answer is no. But toilets come in so many styles now! I put one in at my Sister's place! Hope this video helps you.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YHhAsSoP04c

Would replacing an old toilet be covered under a home warranty?

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Would replacing an old toilet be covered under a home warranty?

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