A home warranty can offer significant benefits, particularly when costly and intricate systems like heating and air conditioning malfunction. Whether your policy covers HVAC repair depends on its terms and your maintenance records.
Question: We're considering purchasing a home with older appliances, and our home inspector suggested looking into a home warranty. Our main concern is the HVAC system, which is well-maintained but nearing the end of its lifespan. Do home warranties typically cover HVAC repair, and are they worth it for HVAC issues?
Answer: It's beneficial that your home inspector is providing clear feedback about the condition of your appliances and systems. This information helps you make informed decisions and feel confident in your investment. Aging appliances can be a worry for many buyers, especially after investing in a home. Without an immediate emergency fund, covering repair or replacement costs can be challenging. In situations like yours, a home warranty offers a cost-effective solution to handle such repairs and replacements during the policy period, provided you understand the coverage details. In general, home warranties, including home systems, typically cover HVAC systems, but it's important to review the warranty documents thoroughly to confirm coverage and any exceptions.
Question: We're considering a home with older appliances, and the home inspector suggested considering a home warranty. Our main concern is the HVAC system—it's well maintained but likely nearing the end of its lifespan. Do home warranties cover HVAC? And are they worth it for HVAC repair?
Answer: It's reassuring that your home inspector offers direct feedback on your home's appliances and systems, aiding in confident decision-making for your investment. Aging appliances pose a real concern for many buyers, especially after investing in a home. In such cases, a home warranty offers a relatively inexpensive way to cover repairs and replacements during the policy period—as long as you carefully review the warranty terms and understand coverage. Typically, HVAC systems are covered by home warranties that include home systems.
Most components of an HVAC system are typically covered by a home warranty.
Home warranties are crafted to cover maintenance and repairs due to normal wear and tear and age-related failures of covered systems and appliances. They address what homeowners insurance policies do not, as homeowners insurance focuses on damage caused by accidents, weather, fire, or other external forces. The coverage of your warranty depends on the type you choose; most warranty companies offer policies covering appliances only, systems only (including electrical, plumbing, and HVAC), or combination policies covering both. If HVAC coverage is a priority, ensure you select a warranty package that includes it. Your policy will outline the covered components, which typically include central air conditioning units, heating systems, some wall heaters, and water heaters. The best HVAC home warranty also includes ductwork, pipes, and related components such as thermostats. However, portable appliances like window unit air conditioners are generally not covered by home warranties.
How does a home warranty cover HVAC repairs? To begin, you'll select and purchase the warranty, typically for a one-year term with an annual premium. Be sure to review the contract: Some warranties may include routine checkups or maintenance, even if there are no apparent issues. If your policy covers this, schedule a checkup promptly. Often, minor issues can be identified during these routine inspections and addressed before they escalate.
If your HVAC malfunctions or fails to function properly, contact your warranty company by phone or through their online portal to file a claim. The company will either dispatch a technician to assess the situation or allow you to choose a contractor. You'll be responsible for a flat service visit charge (specified in your contract and non-negotiable), and the technician will diagnose and repair the issue, all covered by the service visit charge.
If the technician determines that the system is irreparable, they may recommend replacing it with a new system of similar capacity and value (though some companies offer upgrades for an additional fee). The replacement cost will be covered by the warranty up to your coverage limit.
So, now you might have got the clarity over HVAC coverage by your home warranty company. If you are looking forward to choosing the best home warranty company, then look further than ServicePlus Home Warranty!
