Friday, February 15, 2008

Home Warranty

Your home is your most valuable asset. You protect your home with homeowner's insurance, but what about the items not covered by insurance? Your home systems and appliances will not last forever. The average life expectancy is about 13 years. You can help protect yourself against the financial sting of repairs by purchasing a home warranty!

Affordable coverage can save you thousands of dollars. Homeowners spend an average of $900 each year for repair on home systems and appliances. Whether you are selling or buying you can benefit from the financial protection of a home warranty. The cost of the home warranty now can save you from budget-breaking repair expenses later. A seller can have warranty coverage for the listing period up to 180 days or close of escrow. The buyers coverage begins at close of escrow and will continue for one year after close of escrow.

Make sure you know what your home warranty covers and what it doesn't. Your home warranty does not cover ALL systems and appliances. Lack of maintenance of your appliance or home system will result in denial of coverage. Also, improper installation of an item that results in damage will be denied. And finally, code violations of a home system or structure may result in denial of the warranty service.

Some systems that can be covered by a good home warranty are:
Plumbing, water heater, electrical system, dishwasher, garbage disposal, built in microwave, range, oven, trash compactor, garage door openers, ceiling fans, telephone wiring, central vacuum system, doorbell and smoke detectors.
A home warranty will also offer coverage for other home systems for an additional small fee. These include:
Heating system, ductwork, air conditioner, refrigerator, washer, dryer, well pump, pool, spa, and septic.

There are several home warranty companies. Your realtor can give you some recommendations. It is best to spend a little money now on a home warranty to protect yourself from costly repairs later.