What should I do about home automation?
Answered by Allen Markel, REALTOR®, Texas Premier Realty ·
Short answer
Home automation systems are not a real estate matter. Your homeowners insurance may or may not cover smart locks, cameras, thermostats and similar devices depending on your policy. Ask your insurance agent what is covered and whether you need additional coverage. Use a licensed contractor for any installation involving electrical wiring. Check the manufacturer's warranty for device defects. If you are buying or selling a home, talk to us.
Home automation is an insurance and contractor question, not a real estate one
Home automation, smart locks, thermostats, security cameras, lighting systems and similar devices, falls outside the scope of real estate advice. Whether your homeowners insurance covers them, what happens if they fail or are damaged, and how they affect your policy cost are questions for your insurance agent, not a REALTOR.
Your homeowners insurance policy pays to repair or replace your house and personal property if they are damaged or destroyed by a covered event. Most policies pay based on current replacement costs, though some pay less based on age and condition (actual cash value). The difference matters when you file a claim. Ask your insurance agent which type of coverage you have and whether smart home devices are covered under your personal property coverage, or if they need a separate rider or endorsement.
Installation and warranty
If you are installing home automation devices, use a licensed contractor for any work that involves electrical wiring or structural changes. The manufacturer's warranty covers the device itself; your homeowners insurance covers damage from a covered peril (fire, theft, weather). These are separate.
Before you buy or install, ask the manufacturer what is covered under warranty and for how long. Ask your insurance agent whether the devices are covered under your current policy or whether you need additional coverage. Insurance costs and coverage vary by company and by policy, so shopping around and comparing policies is a good idea.
Next steps
Contact your homeowners insurance agent to ask what home automation devices are covered, what is not, and whether your coverage or cost would change if you add them. Contact a licensed contractor if installation involves wiring or structural work. If you are buying or selling a home and have questions about the property itself, talk to us to find the right option for your circumstances.
Common follow-up questions
Does homeowners insurance cover smart home devices?
It depends on your policy. Most policies cover personal property, but coverage limits and exclusions vary. Ask your insurance agent whether smart locks, cameras, thermostats and other devices are covered, and whether you need a separate rider.
What if a smart device breaks or stops working?
The manufacturer's warranty covers defects in the device itself. Homeowners insurance covers damage from a covered peril (fire, theft, weather), not normal wear or malfunction. Check both the warranty and your policy.
Do smart home devices affect my homeowners insurance cost?
Some insurance companies offer discounts for security systems or smart locks. Others do not. Ask your agent whether adding home automation would change your premium or coverage.
Who should install home automation?
If installation involves electrical wiring or structural changes, use a licensed contractor. For simple plug-in devices, you may be able to install them yourself. Check the manufacturer's instructions.
Sources
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