When buying a home it’s important to pay close attention to any warranties and guarantees that may be associated with the home. Warranties can provide protection and save you from unexpected repair costs or defects that either come up after settlement or weren’t found at inspection. The warranties on each home can be different. Here are the most common warranties to look for when buying a home:
Builder’s Warranty
If the home is newly constructed, many builders offer a warranty that covers defects and workmanship issues for the first year or longer. It’s important to understand the coverage and duration of the builder’s warranty.
Manufacturer’s Warranty
If the home includes any new appliances, HVAC systems, or other major equipment (e.g. windows or siding) check for their manufacturer’s warranties. These warranties cover the repair or replacement of faulty items within a specific timeframe. You’ll want to review any warranties to help you understand how long these items are protected and what issues are covered. If the home or any of the appliances are over a year old, you might want to consider a Home Warranty.
Home Warranty
If the home comes with existing appliances, check if there is a warranty covering these items. It can be separate from the manufacturer’s warranty or you might want to get one if the manufacturer’s warranties are up on most of the appliances and systems in the home. Check with the warranty companies as these can also cover systems as well as pools, etc if needed.
Roof Warranty
The roof is an important part of the home and can be a costly replacement. You’ll want to check to see if the home has a roof warranty, especially if it’s newer. Roof warranties can vary in length and coverage so review the details carefully. Be sure the warranty stays with the home and it’s transferable from the Seller. Not all roofers will allow the Seller to transfer the warranty or they may charge a fee to do so.
Termite and Pest Control Warranty
In some regions where termite infestations are common, homeowners may have a warranty that covers termite treatments and damages caused by these pests. In Philadelphia, you will typically receive a 1-year warranty with your clean pest inspection. Be sure to check with the inspection company to see if they provide a warranty.
Water and Sewer Line Warranties
Philadelphia offers coverage for your septic and water lines. These warranties help protect homeowners from the expense of paying for repairs due to water & sewer line leaks or breaks as well as clogs & blockages in the sewer line. It’s relatively inexpensive. Go to www.awrusa.com to see if coverage is available in your area and to sign up. (It’s good for some condo buildings too!)
Some homes may also have…
Structural Warranty
This warranty covers the structural integrity of the home, including the foundation, load-bearing walls, and roof. It ensures that the home is free from any major structural defects for a specified period, typically 10 years.
Waterproofing Warranty
If the property has a basement or is located in an area prone to flooding, inquire about any waterproofing warranties that may be in place.
Energy-Efficient Features Warranty
If the home has energy-efficient components, such as solar panels or energy-efficient windows, verify if there are warranties covering their performance and efficiency.
Home Insurance
While not a traditional warranty, home insurance is essential for protecting against unexpected events like fire, natural disasters, theft, and other covered perils.
Remember that warranties may differ depending on the location and type of property. Always read the warranties thoroughly to understand what is covered and what may void the warranty. Some warranties may have specific maintenance requirements, and failing to meet them could invalidate the coverage. Additionally, we always recommend getting a professional home inspection to identify any potential issues before making a purchase, as not all problems may be covered by warranties.