Home warranties

How much do you know about home warranties? Action 9 gets a lot of emails from viewers who have questions about what can be on those warranties, so our team created this guide to help homeowners as they consider buying a warranty.

What's Included:
Your home warranty should include:
-Electrical system
-Air conditioning or central heating
-Water heater
-Washer and dryer
-Stovetop, microwave, oven, refrigerator, dishwasher or trash compactor
-Interior plumbing
-Pool/spa equihopment
-Ductwork

Who Decides:
The warranty company gets to decide if the problem was already there.  If it was, the company gets to decide whether it still wants to cover that problem.  Then the company will decide whether it will repair or replace the item.

How Much it Costs:
Prices vary, but expect to pay around $400 to $550 per year.  There isn't usually a deductible, but you may have to pay a service call fee. 

What to Remember:
Before you decide on a home warranty:
-Understand what the warranty does and doesn't cover
-If you have questions, ask
-Find out if there are specific requirements for repairs (e.g. certain brands or contractors)
-Ask if any repairs are negotiable

Links to Other Resources:
The Service Contract Industry Council
American Home Shield
Department of Justice on home warranties
National Home Service Contract Association

WSOC