Home Warranty
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Buying / Selling
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Warranty Protection Plan
What is a Home Warranty Plan?
Peace of mind for the new homeowner. The last thing a homebuyer wants to
worry about after closing is what could possibly break or malfunction in their
new home. Since that can cover a multitude of items and systems, for peace of
mind, it's a good idea to get a home protection plan.
How Do They Work?
Although specific plans provide for specific
types of coverage, most operate the same way. If a home system or appliance breaks or stops working, the
homeowner calls the home warranty company.
The home warranty company calls a provider
with which it has a business arrangement. The specific provider calls the
homeowner to make an appointment. The provider fixes the problem. If an
appliance is malfunctioning and cannot be repaired, depending on contract
coverage, the home warranty company will pay to replace and install the
appliance. The homeowner pays a small trade service fee.
Types of Coverage
Because all plans differ, you will want to
ask specifically what is covered. Ask your real estate agent if upgrades are
available. Pay close attention to whether the home warranty company will pay
for repairs to make certain types of systems or appliances compliant with new
regulations.
Who Pays for the Home Warranty?
Either the seller or the buyer can buy
plans. Now, whether the seller
pays for the home protection plan and home warranty coverage or whether the
buyer pays for it, will depend on your local customs. It varies. This is a negotiable
item when making your offer.
How much does a Home Warranty Cost?
They are fairly inexpensive, typically
ranging from $350 to $600, depending on coverage. The policies are prepaid for
a year in advance, at which time they expire or can be renewed.
What is Covered Under Home Protection Plans?
General Coverage
Air conditioning
Dishwashers
Doorbells
Furnace / heating
Water heater
Ductwork
Garbage disposal
Inside plumbing stoppages
Ceiling fans
Electrical systems
Range and oven
Telephone wiring
Because coverage’s vary from state to state and from policy to
policy, ask to see a sample copy of a policy before you commit.
What is Not Covered?
Outdoor items such as sprinklers
Faucet repairs are not covered under all plans
Not all plans pay for refrigerators, washers & dryers or
garage door openers
Spa or pools, unless specific coverage requested
Permit fees
Haul away
What Can Cause Denial of Payment?
Improper maintenance
Code violations
Unusual wear and tear
Improper installation
Small List of Company and Plans available.
You can go online and search for more companies.
- Old Republic Home
Protection Plan
Web: http://www.orhp.com/
FOR INFORMATION CALL: (800) 445-6999
FAX: (800) 866-2488
Mailing Address:
Old Republic Home Protection
P.O. Box 5017
San Ramon, CA 94583-0917
- AHS-American Home Shield
Web: http://www.ahswarranty.com/
FOR INFORMATION CALL: 1-800-827-4636
Mailing Address:
American Home Shield
P.O. Box 849
Carroll, IA 51401-9901
- 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty
Web: http://www.2-10.com/
FOR INFORMATION CALL: 800-775-4736
- HWA-Home Warranty of
America
Web: http://www.hwahomewarranty.com/
FOR INFORMATION CALL: 1-888-492-7359
FAX: 1-888-492-7360
Mailing Address:
Home Warranty of America
P.O. Box 850
Lincolnshire, Illinois 60069-0850
- HMS Home Warranty
Web: http://www.hmsnational.com/home.lasso
FOR INFORMATION CALL: 1-800-432-1033
- BFS HOME WARRANTY
Web: http://www.bfshomewarranty.com/
FOR INFORMATION CALL: 1-800-237-9910
TO ORDER CALL: 1-888-237-6060
FAX: 1-888-237-3600
Mailing Address:
3500 North 28th Terraces
Hollywood, Florida 33020
Please note
that the Sellstate Hill Country Realty or the Five Star Team does not endorse
any specific warranty company nor guarantee their product(s).