How does a home warranty work? A beginner's guide
When considering new construction, many potential buyers wonder, "How does a home warranty work?" Either a builder or a separate home warranty company can provide special coverage for specific parts of your new home, similar to the protection offered by insurance.
Here are some of the most important questions and answers about home warranty companies and contracts:
What is a home warranty?
Home warranties are different from homeowners insurance, which protects the property against fires, hail and other serious hazards. Instead, a home warranty covers appliances such as washing machines and dryers, refrigerators and HVAC systems.
How do home warranties work?
When you have a home warranty, you're covered if and when a covered system breaks down. Home warranties provide a guarantee of repairs to your household's appliances or systems as long as the damage occurred as a result of normal use.
How much does a home warranty cost?
The cost of an annual home warranty can vary depending on many factors such as size, features and condition of the home. The cost typically isn't affected by property age, except for newly constructed buildings, which increase costs.
Home warranties are available for owners of other property types as well. Separate structures like hotel rooms or individual apartment units are generally not covered by standard plans, but can be covered at extra costs.
Benefits of a home warranty
For a homeowner with fewer emergency funds who want to make them available for other purposes, home warranties can act as buffers for the homeowner. A home warranty is also useful for homeowners who have less time or interest in DIY repairs and want to have close contact with the professionals.
Is a home warranty right for you? Often, the benefits greatly outweigh the disadvantages. However, it's important to clarify any details of the warranty service contract for full understanding how it affects your covered appliances and systems.
About the Author
Daniel Martin, Higgins Group Private Brokerage, Licensed in CT, Lic. #RES.6767971
With over two decades of experience in Connecticut real estate, Daniel Martin is a seasoned Realtor at Higgins Group Private Brokerage, renowned for his exceptional market insight and unwavering client dedication. A lifelong Connecticut resident, Daniel's deep roots in the community, coupled with his extensive professional background, provide an invaluable advantage to both buyers and sellers across Fairfield and New Haven Counties.
Daniel's distinguished career is marked by consistent achievement, earning him the prestigious Connecticut Magazine 5 Star Realtor award from 2014 to 2025. He is a perennial Top Producer, recognized as both a Top Listing Agent and Top Selling Agent, a testament to his strategic approach and keen understanding of market dynamics. His expertise spans a broad spectrum of real estate needs, including guiding First Time Home Buyers, navigating transactions for Single and Multi-Family Homes, Land, New Construction, New Residential Developments, Condominiums, Downsizing, and Rentals.
Beyond his impressive track record, Daniel's professional affiliations include memberships with the National Association of REALTORS (NAR), Connecticut Association of REALTORS (CAR), Bridgeport Board of Realtors, Smartmls and Greenwich MLS. His foundational education in real estate from Naugatuck Valley Community College, complemented by studies at Connecticut School of Electronics and Housatonic Community College, underpins his comprehensive understanding of the industry.
Daniel's unique blend of customer service acumen and technological proficiency sets him apart. He leverages every available marketing resource to ensure his clients' homes gain maximum exposure and stand out in the competitive market.
When not orchestrating successful real estate ventures, Daniel cherishes time with his family, including his wife, two children, and four grandchildren. A passionate musician and golf enthusiast, he embodies the vibrant spirit of the Connecticut communities he serves. Daniel's network extends globally, allowing him to facilitate referrals anywhere in the world.
