Home Warranty FAQs: Get the Answers to Common Home Warranty Questions

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned homeowner, there may be home warranty FAQs that you need answers to. Getting those answers and understanding the facts and features around home warranties can help you make informed decisions about protecting your home. 

Unlike homeowners insurance, which covers unexpected disasters like fires or floods, a home warranty helps protect against the cost of repairs or replacements for major systems and appliances that break down due to normal wear and tear. In this blog, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about home warranties so you can decide if this added layer of protection is right for you.

Summary:

• What Is a Home Warranty?

  • Do I Need a Home Warranty?

  • What Does a Home Warranty Cover?

  • What Does a Home Warranty Not Cover?

  • How Long Does a Warranty Last? 

  • How Does a Home Warranty Work if Something Needs Repair? 

  • Do Home Warranties Transfer to a New Owner? 

  • Are Home Warranties Worth It?

• Home Warranty vs. Home Insurance: What’s the Difference?

• New Construction Home Warranty

  • How Long Is a New Build Warranty?  

  • What’s the Difference Between a Builder’s Home Warranty and an Existing Home’s Warranty? 

• What Are Questions to Ask Home Warranty Companies? 

• Conclusion

What Is a Home Warranty?

A home warranty is a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of major home systems and appliances, offering homeowners peace of mind by helping manage unexpected repair costs.

Do I Need a Home Warranty?

A home warranty is not a necessity, but it can help put your mind at ease knowing you have coverage should you experience a problem with an appliance or home system protected by the warranty. If you’re still building up your emergency repair fund, having a home warranty could save you money on these unexpected issues.

What Does a Home Warranty Cover?

A home warranty typically covers the repair or replacement of major home systems, such as HVAC systems, plumbing, and electrical components, as well as household appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and water heaters.

What Does a Home Warranty Not Cover?

Most home warranties do not cover damage from neglect or improper maintenance. For an exact list of what your home warranty does and does not cover, it’s best to check your home warranty contract since coverage can vary.

How Long Does a Home Warranty Last? 

Home warranties typically last one year but often have an option for annual renewal. New home builders tend to offer a home warranty for new construction homes that may cover structural issues for up to 10 years.

How Does a Home Warranty Work if Something Needs Repair?

If a warranty-covered item in your home needs repair, you can contact the warranty provider directly, and they will assign a technician to come to your home. While the warranty may cover any eligible repair or replacement costs, you may have to pay a service fee.

Do Home Warranties Transfer to a New Owner? 

Yes, most home warranties are transferable to a new owner. This can be an appealing feature to buyers when selling your home, but be sure to check with your warranty provider for exact transfer terms.

Are Home Warranties Worth It? 

Whether a home warranty is worth it depends on your individual needs and circumstances. For many homeowners, it can offer valuable peace of mind and financial protection against costly repairs or replacements of essential systems and appliances. Carefully reviewing the warranty's coverage and limitations can help determine if it's the right fit for you.

Home Warranty vs. Home Insurance: What’s the Difference?

While home warranties and homeowners insurance policies both help cover your home, they don’t offer the same protection. Homeowners insurance covers your home’s structure and personal property if it’s stolen or damaged by a covered event. A home warranty covers the repair or replacement of certain appliances and systems within your home.

You can learn more about the distinction between a home warranty and homeowners insurance and what each covers in our blog, Understanding the Difference Between Home Warranty vs. Home Insurance.

New Construction Home Warranty: Do I Need One?

If you’re buying a new construction home, you may not need a home warranty immediately, as many components of the home are typically covered under the builder’s warranty.

However, once the initial warranties expire, purchasing a home warranty can offer extra protection for unforeseen repairs in the years to come. It's worth considering as your home ages and your coverage needs evolve.

How Long Is a New Build Warranty?

Home warranties for new construction homes can cover up to 10 years for structural issues. To learn more about Pulte® home builder warranty, visit our website.

What’s the Difference Between a Builder’s Home Warranty and an Existing Home’s Warranty?

A builder’s home warranty typically covers structural elements, systems, and workmanship in a new construction home, with coverage ranging from one year for general workmanship to up to 10 years for structural components. 

In contrast, a home warranty for an existing home focuses on covering repairs or replacements for aging systems and appliances, which are more prone to wear and tear. 

What Are Questions to Ask Home Warranty Companies?

When shopping around for a home warranty, here are some key questions to consider:

• What does the policy cover, and what are the exclusions?

• What are the service fees?

• How do I file a claim?

• Can the warranty be transferred to a new owner?

• What is the process for a renewal or cancellation?

Conclusion

A home warranty can offer peace of mind, but understanding what it covers and how it works is essential. Whether you’re buying a new home or an existing one, knowing the ins and outs of home warranties can help you decide if it’s the right choice for your needs. 

Explore new construction homes today or browse more Pulte blogs.

Written By: Meagan Rochard, Financial Services Writer

Last Updated: 5/22/25