Home warranties are service contracts that provide coverage for repairs and replacements of appliances and home systems. They are different from home insurance, which provides coverage for damages to a home caused by unexpected events, such as natural disasters, fires, or theft. Home warranties, on the other hand, cover the normal wear and tear of home systems and appliances. In this article, we will discuss what is covered under home warranties and what you should consider before purchasing a home warranty.
Home warranty coverage can vary depending on the provider and the plan you choose. Typically, home warranties cover the following systems and appliances:
- Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems: Home warranties cover repairs and replacements of HVAC systems, including central air conditioning, heating systems, and ductwork.
- Plumbing systems: Home warranties cover repairs and replacements of plumbing systems, including toilets, faucets, showers, and water heaters.
- Electrical systems: Home warranties cover repairs and replacements of electrical systems, including wiring, outlets, and circuit breakers.
- Kitchen appliances: Home warranties cover repairs and replacements of kitchen appliances, including refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, and cooktops.
- Laundry appliances: Home warranties cover repairs and replacements of laundry appliances, including washers and dryers.
- Garage door openers: Home warranties cover repairs and replacements of garage door openers.
- Pool and spa equipment: Home warranties cover repairs and replacements of pool and spa equipment, including pumps, heaters, and filters.
It is important to note that home warranties do not cover everything in your home. Items not covered under home warranties include:
- Pre-existing conditions: Home warranties do not cover pre-existing conditions or problems that existed before the coverage started.
- Non-mechanical items: Home warranties do not cover non-mechanical items, such as windows, doors, and roofs.
- Cosmetic items: Home warranties do not cover cosmetic items, such as paint, wallpaper, and flooring.
- Acts of nature: Home warranties do not cover damages caused by acts of nature, such as floods, earthquakes, and hurricanes.
- Negligence: Home warranties do not cover damages caused by negligence, such as failing to maintain a system or appliance properly.
When considering purchasing a home warranty, there are several factors to consider. First, you should consider the age and condition of your home systems and appliances. If they are relatively new and in good condition, you may not need a home warranty. However, if your systems and appliances are older and more prone to breakdowns, a home warranty may be a good investment.
Second, you should consider the cost of the home warranty. Home warranties typically cost between $300 and $600 per year, depending on the level of coverage and the provider. You should compare the cost of the home warranty to the potential cost of repairs and replacements without a warranty to determine if it is a good value.
Third, you should research the home warranty provider to ensure they are reputable and reliable. You should read reviews and check their rating with the Better Business Bureau to ensure they have a good track record of customer satisfaction.
In conclusion, home warranties provide coverage for repairs and replacements of home systems and appliances. They can be a good investment if your systems and appliances are older and more prone to breakdowns. However, it is important to consider the cost of the home warranty and the reputation of the provider before purchasing a plan. By understanding what is covered under home warranties and what to consider before purchasing a plan, you can make an informed decision about whether a home warranty is right for you.