HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE VS HOME WARRANTY INSURANCE

Ever wondered what is the difference between a home warranty and homeowners insurance? Are they not the same? Let’s find answers to these questions.
While home warranty and home insurance products may come across as same, they are totally different. The coverage, cost, terms, and conditions vary greatly. Home insurance is compulsory in some cases whereas home warranty is a recommended choice.
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DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE VS HOME WARRANTY INSURANCE

Now that you have a fair idea of the difference between home warranty vs home insurance, let’s summarize. First, figure out what is the homeowner’s insurance coverage for appliances.
A home warranty offers protection for your major appliances, as well as plumbing and electrical units. It covers the cost of repairing or replacing major household appliances in case they break down. This is provided they meet the terms and conditions of the home service contract.
Home insurance covers your home in the event of damage due to natural calamity or man-made disasters. It offers you protection from lawsuits in case of third party involvement.
For example: If your neighbor visited you, fell by accident and got injured. If he decides to sue you, then home insurance will take care of the claims. Home insurance is mandatory if you have a mortgage on your home.
WHAT DOES A HOME WARRANTY CONTRACT COVER?Items covered by a home warranty may vary by company and plan, but typically homeowners insurance that covers appliances include:

• Heating, ventilation and air conditioning system (HVAC)
• Electrical system
• Plumbing system
• Water heater
• Kitchen appliances such as fridge, stove/oven/range, built-in dishwasher, built-in microwave, garbage disposal, built-in trash compactor
• Clothes washer and dryer
• Garage door opener
• Coverage for pools, spas, well pumps, and other items may be available for an additional fee.

BENEFITS OF HOME WARRANTY COVERAGETo The Homeowner

• Placing a claim and getting your appliance repaired is a lot easier.
• Helps save up huge costs.
• You can repair as many appliances you want providing they are covered.

To The Seller

• A home may sell faster and at a higher price.
• Protection from after-sale legal disputes.
• Increases the market presence of the home.

To The Buyer

• Warranty coverage on major systems and built-in appliances.
• Protects your cash flow.
• Access to a network of qualified service technicians at your fingertips.

Home InsuranceIn the case of an uncertain event like fire, theft, vandalism, or certain natural disasters, the cost of damages is covered. It also covers your personal items and gives you protection.
Liability insurance will protect you from lawsuits in the event that someone is injured on your property. Home insurance will only ensure your personal items in case they are stolen or ruined in a disaster. Repairs and replacements due to wear and tear are not covered.
WHAT DOES A HOME INSURANCE POLICY COVER?The insurance policy varies depending on your state of residence and type of policy, but generally, it will cover the following.

• Structure and contents of the house.
• Personal property such as indoor and outdoor furniture, clothes and home electronics such as computer, TV, stereo, etc.
• Jewelry may be covered up to a certain value, or itemized for its full value, or excluded entirely.
• Living expenses if you cannot live in your home as a result of a natural disaster.
• Events like theft, vandalism, fire, windstorm, lightning, hail, falling objects such as a tree.
• Liability claims such as someone got hurt while in your property and decided to sue you. The policy will take care of it.

BENEFITS OF HOME INSURANCEHome is the most prized and cherished possession that you can have. Nobody anticipates damages to this, therefore home insurance provides you the following benefits when you cover your home.

• Covers accidental damages to your interiors and exteriors as well.
• Easy to renew all you have to do is pay the premium on time.
• Possessions are covered regardless of new or old.
• Assures you peace of mind and gives you a feeling of safety and security.
• Pays for loss and minor damages like a broken glass of a window.

COST/PRICING FOR BOTHA standard warranty runs $300 to $500 for a year of protection. This covers the cost of repairing or replacing a home’s major systems and appliances.
Home sellers typically pick up the tab for the first year of coverage. Extended coverage plans for pools, spas and washers and dryers can be purchased at an extra cost.
Insurance cost varies from state to state and depends on the extent of coverage and the location of the property. But standard insurance can cost any homeowners insurance is between $300 and $1,000.
HOW TO CHOOSE A HOME WARRANTY?When you are planning to buy a home warranty, make sure that you do some research. Check our home warranty reviews section that provides pricing, comparison, quotes and consumer reviews of all major companies.
When you are getting price quotes, inquire to look over a sample policy. Bear in mind to understand the entire policy, together with the fine print.
Another advantage of a home warranty policy is that it is transferable. The home warranty is passed on to the new owner. This has proved to be a well-liked feature amongst home buyers.
Homes with home warranties are selling at increased prices and in much shorter times. This in itself could make it sensible to get a home warranty policy.
HOW TO MAKE A CLAIM?When a covered appliance breaks down you need to contact your warranty company. A warranty company already has business ties with different service vendors.
They will, in turn, contact a service repairman to come to your home and repair the appliance. The repairman will fix the item or recommend replacing it.
The service repairman will bill your warranty company directly. But you have to pay a service charge when the repair person visits your home.
HOW TO CHOOSE HOME INSURANCE?With any kind of insurance, it is always a good idea to shop around. You should evaluate benefits and prices as most insurance companies will provide you with a policy discount. Ensure you read the policy before writing a check and ask any queries that you have in mind.
So, the conclusion is that home warranty and insurance are complementary to each other. You can choose to protect everything you own, provided you can afford to. Keep in mind that these insurance products do cost a bit more.
But compared to the benefits and the peace of mind you get, it seems like a very small amount. Ensure your home as well as buy a home warranty all within your budget.
Do I Need A Home Warranty When Buying A House?Yes, you should have a home warranty when buying a condo or a house. Usually, the sellers include a home warranty as part of the sale. A home warranty covers appliances and systems like air conditioning, plumbing, dishwasher and is responsible for items in the condo.
Do You Really Need Homeowners Insurance?Homeowner’s insurance covers damage due to fire, theft and natural disaster. While a home warranty covers damage due to wear and tear. Based on where you live, you should purchase additional coverage for insurance. This is because earthquakes and floods as most events are not covered in the basic plan.
What Does A $500 Home Warranty Cover?A standard home warranty would cost around $350 to $500 a year or more. This is based on the type of home warranty company and the plan. This warranty typically covers water heater, electrical systems, sump pump, exhaust fans, kitchen appliances, exhaust fans, and ceilings.
Should I Get Homeowners Insurance?Homeowners insurance will ensure that your home is covered from natural disasters and theft. If you mortgage your home then your lenders would expect you to have home insurance. This will protect your home from unforeseen circumstances.