Home Warranties - Are They Worth the Money?

Home Warranties! What do they cover...and what- Kitchen Refrigerator
don't they cover for your new Nashville home?- Water Heater
In preparing your purchase contract, I always ask- Ceiling Fans
the seller to provide a home warranty for you.- Toilet Tanks and Bowls
And most of the time they agree. But exactly- Attic and Exhaust Fans
what is a home warranty and what does it- Ductwork
cover?- Oven/Range/Cooktop
Basically, it's an insurance policy. I've seen home- Circulating Pumps
warranty companies put in a whole new HVAC- Instant Hot Water Dispenser
system without question...but, I've also seen them- Sump Pumps
deny a tiny claim that I felt should have beenFirst Class Upgrades are usually available:
covered.- Faucets
The procedure is this: In the event of a problem- Shower Heads
with any covered item, you will call the toll free- Heating Registers and Grills
number that you were given at closing. This will- Window A/C Units
file your claim. The warranty company will then- Smoke Detectors
send out their chosen representative (repairman).- Garage Door Openers
And, just like health insurance...sometimes the- Refrigerator Ice Maker
issue is considered to be a pre-existing condition,- Disposal of Freon
which will most likely not be covered. Never- Pools and Spa Equipment
attempt to repair anything yourself! This will void- Washer and Dryer
your claim. If they determine that you (or- Well Pump
anyone) has tampered with or tried to fix the- Septic Tank Pumping
problem, they will usually deny the coverage.- Some Roof Leak Coverage
If the representative determines that you have aCoverage for Buyers begins at closing and
valid claim, the repairs will be made...minus yourcontinues for one year. The warranty company
deductible! This amount varies according to thewill, in many cases, give you the option of
policy. Deductibles are usually in the $50-$75continuing the coverage for additional years. This
range.option usually comes by mail before your first
This is the available coverage for Nashville realyear is over.
estate. Other areas of the country may haveSellers can also take advantage of some
different coverages available...with different prices.coverage while the house is on the market. This
Most warranties cover these basic items:applies if they sign up for the warranty when the
- Electrical Systemproperty is listed. Be sure to ask your listing agent
- Plumbing Systemabout this.
- Heating/Air Condition SystemI always enjoy hearing from you, so please
- Telephone Wiringcontact me with any questions you have about
- Whirlpool Bath Motor and PumpNashville Real Estate.
- Dishwasher