A home warranty might be something to consider if you have just purchased a new home or are going to be buying a new home in the near future. A home warranty guarantees the property against failure of mechanical systems, such as plumbing, electrical, heating and installed appliances. Many first time home buyers go with a home warranty to help protect them against the cost of unexpected covered repairs or replacement on their major systems and appliances.
The cost for a home warranty can vary but they are typically inexpensive, usually ranging from $250 to $600 annually, depending on coverage. There are many different plans with different requirements, most tend to operate the same way. If an appliance or item covered breaks or stops working, the home owner calls the home warranty company. The home warranty company calls a provider with which it has an arrangement and they contact the homeowner to come out to fix the problem. Typically if the problem can be fixed per the contract coverage than the warranty company pays the contractor directly.
Each company is different in what items they cover but below are some typical systems and appliacnces that are covered and what are not typically considered to be included.
Typically Covered
- Air conditioner system/ Furnace / heating
- Dishwashers
- Doorbells
- Water heater
- Garbage disposals
- Inside plumbing stoppages
- Ceiling fans
- Electrical systems
- Range and oven
Typically not covered
- Outdoor items such as sprinklers, or pool filters/spa systems
- Not all plans pay for refrigerators, washers & dryers or garage door openers
- Spa or pools, unless specific coverage requested
It is important to know that pre-existing conditions are not covered. The home warranty company expects to start with a clean sheet and they require home owners to fix any pre-existing issues before the new policy becomes effective. It is a good idea to get the home inspection done before you sign the contract, so that you have a proof if necessary.