What is a Home Warranty and Do You Need One?

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Deric Kalamitsiotis

calendar Published on: Mar 31, 2025

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Everything You Need to Know Before You Buy

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. But once the keys are in hand, the real responsibility begins—maintenance, repairs, unexpected appliance breakdowns, and the infamous "Why is the AC not working?" moment. This is where a home warranty comes into play.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll answer one of the most common questions homeowners ask:

 “What is a home warranty and do I need one?” We'll cover what it includes, how it differs from home insurance, how much it costs, who it’s best for, and the pros and cons of home warranties, so you can make an informed decision.

Want to learn more about smart home protection? Visit the Noble Quote Learning Center

 

What is a Home Warranty?

A home warranty is a service contract that helps cover the cost of repairing or replacing major home systems and appliances due to normal wear and tear.

Think:

  • HVAC systems
  • Plumbing
  • Electrical systems
  • Kitchen appliances
  • Washer/dryer
  • Water heaters

Unlike home insurance, which covers damage from events like fire, storms, or theft, a home warranty focuses on system and appliance failure due to age or use. That’s why it’s sometimes referred to as “home repair insurance,” even though it’s technically not insurance.

 

What Does a Home Warranty Cover?

Coverage varies by provider, but most home warranty plans cover:

✅ Systems:

  • Heating and cooling (HVAC)
  • Ductwork
  • Plumbing systems and stoppages
  • Electrical systems
  • Water heaters

✅ Appliances:

  • Dishwasher
  • Refrigerator
  • Oven, range, and cooktop
  • Microwave
  • Washer and dryer
  • Garage door opener

✅ Optional Add-ons:

  • Pool/spa equipment
  • Septic systems
  • Roof leaks
  • Well pumps

📌Pro Tip: Before you sign up, read the fine print. Not all failures are covered. For example, many policies exclude pre-existing conditions or breakdowns due to improper installation.

 

How Much Does a Home Warranty Cost?

The home warranty cost can vary depending on your location, the size of your home, and your chosen level of coverage. On average:

  • Annual premium: $350 to $700
  • Service fee per repair visit: $75 to $150

There are typically three tiers of plans:

  1. Appliance-only plans
  2. Systems-only plans
  3. Combo plans that cover both

Optional add-ons will raise the price, but they might be worth it if you own things like a second fridge, sump pump, or water softener.

Who Needs a Home Warranty?

While not required, a home warranty can offer real peace of mind, especially in these situations:

🏡 First-Time Homebuyers

If you’ve just poured your savings into a down payment, you might not be financially prepared for a $2,000 furnace replacement. A warranty helps soften that risk.

🏚️ Older Homes

Older systems = more frequent breakdowns. A home warranty for older homes can offset the cost of frequent repairs.

💼 Real Estate Transactions

Some sellers include a home warranty to sweeten the deal. Buyers gain a year of protection while settling in.

🛠️ Not Handy? No Problem

If you're not the DIY type, having pre-screened technicians just a call away is a huge plus.

 

Is a Home Warranty Worth the Money?

It depends. If you have aging appliances and systems, a home warranty can save you thousands. But if your home is newly built with warranties still in effect, you may not need one immediately.

Let’s break it down:

👍 Benefits of a Home Warranty:

  • Predictable repair costs
  • Budget protection
  • Access to vetted contractors
  • Peace of mind for new homeowners
  • Can increase home resale value

👎 Disadvantages of a Home Warranty:

  • Not all repairs are covered
  • Denied claims can be frustrating
  • Service call fees can add up
  • May require multiple visits to resolve one issue
  • Limited control over who does the repair

 

Home Warranty vs. Home Insurance

People often confuse the two. Let’s clear it up:

FeatureHome WarrantyHome Insurance
What it coversSystems & appliancesStructural damage, theft, disasters
When it appliesBreakdowns from wear & tearSudden, accidental events
ExamplesBroken dishwasher, AC failureFire, storm damage, burglary
Who needs it?Homeowners (especially older homes)Required by mortgage lenders

So if your AC dies in July, the home warranty can help. But if a tree crashes into your roof, that’s your home insurance’s job.

 

When Should I Buy a Home Warranty?

Timing matters. Consider getting a home warranty:

  • Right after buying a home
  • Before your appliances’ manufacturer warranties expire
  • When systems are aging but still functional
  • As part of a home sale negotiation

Some companies offer waiting periods (typically 30 days), so don’t wait until something breaks!

 

How to Choose a Home Warranty

You want a policy that covers what you need—no more, no less.

Here’s what to compare:

  • Covered items and exclusions
  • Service call fees
  • Annual premium
  • Customer service reputation
  • Contractor network quality
  • Response time on service calls

Browse third-party reviews and ask neighbors or real estate agents for recommendations. While Noble Quote doesn't offer home warranties (yet!), we encourage smart research.

 

Final Thoughts

While home warranties aren't for everyone, they can be a lifesaver for homeowners who want to protect themselves from unexpected repair bills. They offer peace of mind, budget protection, and convenience when things go wrong. Whether you're in New Jersey, exploring coverage for your older home, or simply wondering, “Do I need a home warranty?”, the answer depends on your home’s age, your savings cushion, and your risk tolerance.

Still have questions? Visit our Learning Center for more homeowner tips and resources.

Coming Soon: Noble Quote will soon be offering affordable, comprehensive home warranty coverage—backed by our fast, zero-hassle service promise. Stay tuned.

Home Warranty FAQs: Real Answers to Your Biggest Questions

What is a home warranty and how does it work?

A home warranty is a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of major home systems and appliances due to normal wear and tear. When a covered item breaks down, you contact the warranty provider, pay a service fee, and they send a technician to fix it. If the item can't be repaired, it may be replaced—subject to plan limits.


 

Is a home warranty the same as homeowners insurance?

No. A home warranty covers repairs or replacements for household systems and appliances that fail due to age or use. Homeowners insurance covers your home's structure and personal belongings from unexpected events like fire, theft, or weather damage.


 

What does a home warranty typically cover?

Most home warranties cover:

  • Systems: HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and water heaters
  • Appliances: Refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, washer/dryer
  •  Some plans offer optional add-ons like pool equipment, septic systems, and roof leak coverage. Always read the coverage terms and exclusions.

How much does a home warranty cost per year?

The average annual cost of a home warranty ranges from $350 to $700, depending on your home size, location, and coverage tier. Expect to pay a service fee of $75 to $150 each time a technician is dispatched.


 

Is a home warranty worth it for new homeowners?

Yes, especially for first-time buyers who may not have emergency savings for major repairs. A home warranty can reduce stress and unexpected costs during your first year of ownership.


 

When should I buy a home warranty?

The best time to buy is right after purchasing a home, when appliances and systems are still working. Many providers won’t cover pre-existing issues or will enforce a 30-day waiting period.


 

What are the pros and cons of a home warranty?

Pros:

  • Budget-friendly repair coverage
  • Peace of mind
  • Vetted service professionals

Cons:

  • Claim denials for exclusions
  • Limited coverage caps
  • You may not choose your repair provider

Does a home warranty cover HVAC repairs?

Yes, most home warranties cover HVAC systems, including central heating, air conditioning, and ductwork. However, not all parts may be included—check your policy for details on coverage limits and exclusions.


 

Can I get a home warranty for an older home?

Absolutely. Many providers offer home warranty plans for older homes, and it can be especially valuable if your appliances or systems are nearing the end of their lifespan. Just be aware that coverage may be limited for items that are already failing.


 

What should I look for when choosing a home warranty company?

Look for:

  • Transparent coverage terms
  • Fair service call fees
  • Good customer reviews
  • Fast claim response times
  • A provider that allows add-ons specific to your needs (e.g. roof or septic)

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