Each home is equipped with a wide range of appliances and machinery, making every day a bit more convenient. Along with new purchases comes the upkeep responsibilities, and it is not an easy task. To assist in the same, a home warranty comes into play. Home warranty aims to provide an easy process for home appliance repairs and replacement. However, this is not the complete picture. Before purchasing any home warranty service, the client must know what things home warranty cover includes.
Many home warranty providers typically the same appliances. However, a select few go over the nominal offers and provide atypical cover under warranty.
The following discussions explain the typical and atypical things that a home warranty includes.
Home Warranty vs. Manufacturer Warranty
A manufacturer’s warranty typically covers the repair, service, and replacement of a particular appliance under special considerations. A year’s worth of coverage is usually provided from the date of purchase. The coverage lasts longer only if the customer purchases an extended warranty at an additional cost.
Manufacturer warranties and extended warranties, however, only cover the original purchase made by the original owner. As a result, if a buyer purchases a property with relatively new appliances, any manufacturer warranties on those products do not transfer to the new owner once the transaction is completed.
Additionally, a manufacturer’s warranty will only cover a single item. As a result, if a person wants warranty coverage for all their appliances, they will need to buy a separate warranty for each one. This can be time-consuming and costly.
On the contrary, a home warranty plan can be transferred between owners following a real estate transaction while still covering the cost of repairing or replacing specific home systems and appliances.
Another advantage of a home warranty over a manufacturer’s warranty is that a house warranty covers a variety of systems and appliances for a nominal cost. It’s a lot easier and less expensive this way.
What all do home warranty cover?
Depending on the plan chosen and the additional features added, a home warranty can cover various things. It’s vital to remember that homeowner’s insurance and a home warranty service agreement complement each other. The two cannot be used in substitution for the other as the two play completely different roles.
Moreover, the amount of money that a home warranty company pays for the diagnostic, repair, or replacement of covered home systems and appliances is set by the company. Some warranty providers specify the amount of money they pay for specific items, such as a garage door opener or a built-in microwave. Other firms charge a flat rate for all equipment. Another noteworthy condition to address is if the company chosen for the home warranty covers commercial grade equipment or not. As a general practice, many companies refrain from covering repairing or replacing commercial-grade equipment or systems. As an industry practice, an inspection before confirming the contract between the customer and the home warranty service provider is conducted. The intention behind the inspection is to evaluate if the appliances have a pre-existing fault or damage. Such devices are not included under the cover.
The terms “home warranty” and “homeowners’ insurance” are frequently used interchangeably, though they are worlds apart. Forces of nature, fire, or water that may destroy a home’s structure are covered by homeowner’s insurance. If the products are included in the insurance, it may also cover theft of items inside the home. Unlike a home warranty, most banks and lenders need homeowner’s insurance.
The National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA) specifies that the things home warranty cover varies. Still, some common coverages for appliances and systems can expect from most home warranty organizations.
Typical things covered by home warranty
The systems that are covered under home warranty are-
● Heating, including furnace
● Cooling, including air conditioning
● Plumbing, including inevitable pipe leaks
● Electrical, including wiring
● Water heater
The system’s coverage may or may not include all the parts of the system and is exposed to the terms and conditions of the service provider. Many providers explicitly specify the factors that are covered that are not. As a customer, special heed should be paid to these minute details to avoid future tussle in availing the warranty claim.
The other things home warranty cover are-
● Refrigerator
● Oven
● Dishwasher
● Built-in microwave
● Garbage disposal
● Trash compactor
Atypical things covered by home warranty
● Additional refrigerator
● Built-in wine cooler
● Free-standing freezer
● Extended pipe leak
● Washer and dryer
● Septic system
● Pool and spa equipment
● Water softener
● Well pump
● Electronic extended warranty
Many home warranty companies do not offer roof coverage. Roof replacement is not covered by those that provide roof coverage as an option. Roof warranties typically cover leaks but not all aspects of the roof. Some home warranties do not cover leaks on patios or metal roofing.
What does a home warranty not cover?
Service agreements are not all-inclusive buffets, even if they appear to be. Before submitting a service request, double-checking the precise coverage specifics in the home warranty plan can prevent feeling cheated. The following is a list of items that a house warranty usually does not cover.
● Storm-related damage
● Damage caused by fire
● Theft or Vandalism
● if there is an accidental injury or death on the premises of the property
● Damage to a home system or equipment caused by the homeowner’s negligence or malice.
After signing up for a home warranty, a certain amount of time is implemented called wait time. The customer cannot file a claim or request service during this period, and it usually lasts for at least 30 days.
Conclusion
A home warranty is a great practice to ensure home upkeep and benefiting from long-term planning of their maintenance. Yet, the emphasis still lies in the awareness of all the rules and clauses. It gives a concise knowledge of what is covered and what is exempted.
A thorough inspection of the contract helps in getting the most out of your home warranty. When purchasing a home warranty, it is critical to understand what one is getting and what will and will not be covered under the contract.
