closing

home warranty

A home warranty is a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of major home systems and appliances, such as heating, plumbing, electrical, water heaters, and kitchen appliances, for a set period, usually one year. It does not replace homeowners insurance, which covers damage from perils like fire or storms. Sellers often buy one for the buyer as a marketing incentive, and coverage limits and service call fees apply.

Exam tip
Home warranty covers failures from normal wear; hazard insurance covers sudden perils. Licensees should disclose any compensation received for selling warranties.
Example
Three months after closing, the buyer's furnace fails. The home warranty company replaces it for a $100 service call fee.

Related terms & state variants

Sources

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Last verified: 2026-10-23