Understanding Home Warranties | Your Complete Guide

Protect Your Home & Budget With a Home Warranty

A home warranty provides coverage for repairs and replacements of major home systems and appliances when they break down due to normal wear and tear.

What is a Home Warranty?

A home warranty is a service contract that helps homeowners cover the cost of repairs or replacements for major home systems and appliances when they break down due to normal wear and tear.

Protection

Home warranties protect your budget from unexpected repair costs when covered items break down due to normal wear and tear.

Cost Savings

Instead of paying full price for repairs or replacements, you pay a small service fee when you need a repair on a covered item.

Convenience

When something breaks down, simply file a claim and a pre-screened technician will be sent to your home to diagnose and fix the issue.

Unlike homeowners insurance which covers damage from accidents or natural disasters, a home warranty covers breakdowns from normal use and aging.

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Benefits of a Home Warranty

Discover how a home warranty can provide peace of mind and financial protection for homeowners.

Budget Protection

Avoid unexpected, large repair bills when major systems or appliances break down. A home warranty helps you budget for home repairs with predictable costs.

Simplified Repair Process

No need to search for reliable contractors. Your home warranty company has a network of pre-screened, licensed technicians ready to help.

How it works: File a claim online or by phone, and a qualified technician will be scheduled to diagnose and repair the issue.

Extended Protection

Many manufacturer warranties expire after just one year. A home warranty can provide continued protection for your appliances and systems beyond the manufacturer's warranty.

Coverage: Protection for items regardless of age, as long as they're in good working condition when coverage begins.

Home Value Enhancement

A transferable home warranty can be an attractive selling point if you decide to sell your home, giving potential buyers added confidence in their purchase.

Seller benefit: Some warranties offer special coverage during the listing period to protect you from unexpected repairs while your home is on the market.

What's Covered?

Home warranties typically cover major home systems and appliances. Coverage varies by plan, but here's what's commonly included:

Home Systems

Heating & Air Conditioning (HVAC)

Furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, ductwork

Electrical Systems

Wiring, panels, switches, outlets, ceiling fans

Plumbing Systems

Pipes, drains, water heaters, faucets, toilets

Water Heaters

Gas, electric, and tankless water heaters

Garage Door Openers

Motors, chains, belts, keypads

Appliances

Kitchen Appliances

Refrigerators, ovens, ranges, cooktops, dishwashers, built-in microwaves

Laundry Appliances

Washers and dryers

Garbage Disposals

Motors and components

Trash Compactors

Motors and key components

Optional Add-ons

Pool/spa equipment, well pumps, septic systems, roof leaks, additional appliances

Important Coverage Notes

  • Coverage typically applies to breakdowns due to normal wear and tear, not pre-existing conditions.
  • Items must be properly installed, maintained, and in good working condition when coverage begins.
  • Coverage limits may apply to certain systems or appliances.
  • Always review the contract for specific coverage details, exclusions, and limitations.

How Home Warranties Work

Understanding the process from purchase to claim resolution.

1

Choose a Plan

Select a home warranty plan that fits your needs and budget. Basic plans cover essential systems and appliances, while comprehensive plans offer more extensive coverage.

2

Purchase Coverage

Pay for your plan either annually or monthly. Most plans have a waiting period (typically 30 days) before coverage begins, unless you're transferring from another warranty.

3

When Something Breaks

When a covered item breaks down, submit a service request through your warranty provider's website or by phone. Most companies offer 24/7 claims service.

4

Technician Visit

5

Resolution

The technician will diagnose the issue and either repair or replace the covered item according to your plan's terms. The warranty company covers the approved cost beyond your service fee.

Home Warranty vs. Homeowners Insurance

Understanding the difference between these two important types of home protection.

Feature Home Warranty Homeowners Insurance
Purpose Covers repair or replacement of home systems and appliances due to normal wear and tear Covers damage to your home's structure and belongings due to specific perils (fire, theft, storms, etc.)
Required By Optional (homeowner's choice) Required by mortgage lenders
Cost $500-$1,500+ annually + deductible ($500-$2,000+) per claim
Covers Appliance Breakdowns Yes No
Covers System Failures Yes No
Covers Fire Damage No Yes
Covers Theft No Yes
Covers Weather Damage No Yes

Best Protection Strategy

For complete home protection, many homeowners choose to have both homeowners insurance and a home warranty. They complement each other by covering different types of issues that can affect your home.