Keeping your home in good condition improves its value, gives you a better quality of life, and reduces the need for more invasive and expensive repairs down the road. But many homeowners struggle to afford basic maintenance, which costs anywhere from 

If you don't have thousands of dollars at the ready, buying a home warranty may help you avoid financial disasters. Find out what a home warranty is, what it covers, and how to decide if it’s right for you.

What Is a Home Warranty and How Does It Work?

A home warranty covers the cost of repairing or replacing major home systems and appliances. Homeowners pay monthly or annual fees for their policy and may also be responsible for deductibles or flat-rate service fees.

If a covered appliance or system needs to be serviced, you call the home warranty company and let them know what’s going on. They’ll give you the name of a local contractor in their network. You’ll call that contractor, tell them you’re a home warranty customer, and get on their schedule.

When the work is done, the contractor gets paid by the home warranty provider. Your plan should clearly state whether you’re responsible for any portion of the final bill and whether you pay it directly to the contractor or to the home warranty company.

If the contractor says the appliance or system needs to be replaced, the home warranty provider chooses a replacement of similar value and pays to have it installed.

Home warranty plans are not a substitute for 

Home insurance protects your home and its contents from significant events like fires, natural disasters, or theft.

Home warranty plans cover the systems and appliances in your home that break and require repairs due to everyday wear and tear.

Home warranty coverage varies from plan to plan. Your provider, budget, location, and specific needs determine what the plan covers. And the more you’re willing to pay for, the more widespread coverage you’ll receive.

That said, most home warranty plans cover wear and tear damage for the following:

You can typically add coverage for other appliances and systems for an extra fee. Popular add-ons include:

If your warranty plan covers your refrigerator, review the coverage details carefully. Some companies exclude ice makers from their warranty plans.

Even the most comprehensive home warranties don't cover every possible mishap. Before you purchase a home warranty plan, review the details carefully.

Home warranties typically don’t cover the following:

Products still covered by their original warranties

Structural damage that occurs when replacing or repairing a covered appliance or system

Damage that’s covered by a homeowners insurance policy

Damage caused by an act of nature, like a flood

It's also common for home warranties to exclude 

 and propane systems, although they generally cover furnaces and water heaters.

What Are the Benefits of a Home Warranty?

The biggest benefit of a home warranty is the money you’ll potentially save on home maintenance. Here are some other advantages to consider.

1. Minimizes unexpected replacement costs

A worn-out appliance, air conditioner, furnace, or other home system can easily cost hundreds or thousands of dollars to replace. A home warranty plan minimizes your out-of-pocket costs when things break down beyond repair.

2. Saves money with flat-rate, locked-in service fees

With a home warranty, you pay a small monthly fee to maintain the contract, plus a flat-rate fee for any necessary repair services. Many repair professionals charge by the hour, so the cost of home repairs can quickly add up depending on their complexity. A flat-rate service fee protects you from a large bill.

For example, if a plumber charges $90 per hour and spends 2.5 hours repairing the leaky pipes in your home, you'll end up with a repair bill of $225. However, if you have a home warranty, you may pay a flat rate of $100 — a savings of $125.

When you don’t have coverage for home repairs and replacements, you might be tempted to go the do-it-yourself route. But, 

DIY repairs could lead to more problems than solutions

. For example, you can injure yourself or cause a bigger issue.

Additionally, home insurance companies often don’t cover damage caused by DIY repairs, so you’d probably have to pay out of pocket to fix your mistake. Having a home warranty plan means you can call in a professional for a variety of repairs for an affordable rate and avoid the risks of doing it yourself.

4. Covers older appliances with expired manufacturer warranties

, such as one year following the purchase date. It's aggravating when an appliance stops working just after the warranty expires because you have no recourse from the manufacturer. Home warranties protect your investment by covering older appliances once the manufacturer’s warranty expires.

5. Gives you more control over repair expenses

Most warranty providers offer several plans, giving you more control over your repair expenses. For example, a provider may have a standard, mid-tier, and high-end plan, with each plan offering additional coverage for a higher price. When a provider offers several plans, you can decide if you want to save money with the basic one or spend a little more to get the extended coverage of a mid-tier or high-end plan.

6. Takes away the hassle of finding skilled repair technicians in your area

Each warranty company has relationships with contractors nationwide, so you don't have to search for a repair technician on your own. Simply call the warranty company and ask for a service appointment.

7. May make your home easier to sell at a higher price

, "offering a home warranty is associated with a price premium of at least $4,000 and a reduction in time on market of at least 2.5 days" This could be because a home warranty plan gives buyers comfort in knowing that they won’t have to pay high out-of-pocket costs to make repairs shortly after moving in.

A home warranty also suggests to buyers that the home systems and appliances have been well maintained. You’re not hiding broken appliances because you had the coverage to fix them.

Is a Home Warranty Really Cost Effective?

A home warranty plan typically costs between $45 and $85 a month, or an average of $780 per year. With home upkeep starting at around $5,000 per year, you can clearly see the price of a home warranty plan is much lower than the usual home maintenance expenses.

Here’s another way to look at it. Assume you pay $65 per month for a home warranty. After 12 months of paying for your warranty plan, you need a repair that typically costs $1,500. Your warranty covers the repair, leaving you to pay only a $100 deductible. In this case, having a home warranty is worth it, as you've only paid a total of $880 ($780 in monthly payments and $100 for the deductible). That’s a little more than half the cost of the repair.

That said, a home warranty plan might not be for everyone.

If your home is new, its appliances and systems may be covered under manufacturer warranties. A home warranty wouldn’t offer much benefit for your first few years of home ownership.

You also don’t get to choose who comes to your house to do the work when you have a home warranty. If you like to personally vet every contracting company that works on your home, you might prefer to pay for someone outside of the home warranty network.

Likewise, you don’t get to pick out a new appliance if your old one needs to be replaced. The home warranty company will install a model with similar features and value. If you know you want to eventually upgrade your appliances, you could be frustrated with what you get.

If you can afford to be choosy with what you buy and who you hire, a home warranty might feel restrictive. However, for the average American homeowner without an emergency fund, the small monthly investment in a home warranty plan is worth the peace of mind and financial safety net it provides.

How Do I Find a Trustworthy Home Warranty Company?

 should keep its promise to help you with repairs and replacements. It shouldn’t just take your money and give you the runaround when you need to make a claim. Here are our top tips for finding a home warranty company you can trust.

Home warranty companies that have been around for 10–30 years will probably still be around in another decade or two. Choosing a newer company is a bit riskier because they could go out of business at any time, leaving you back at square one.

2. Avoid companies with tons of BBB complaints

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) shows how many complaints have been filed against a company. One or two isn’t unusual, but steer clear of businesses with hundreds of complaints, especially if everyone reports a similar issue. You can also call your state attorney general’s office to find out if anyone has lodged a complaint against the company.

Wondering if a home warranty is worth it? Learn the pros, cons, coverage details, and costs to help you decide if it’s right for your home.

Are Home Warranties Worth It? Pros, Cons, Coverage & Cost

If you're ready to sell your home, set yourself up for success by getting a seller’s home warranty. This coverage can eliminate the stress that a broken home system or appliance would present. The right warranty saves you time and money, attracts buyers, and helps you secure the best price for your home.

A home warranty is a contract that helps to cover the cost of servicing, repairing, or replacing your home’s appliances and electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and other home systems. These costs are often high, so having an active home warranty offers prospective buyers peace of mind that if something breaks, they won’t be stuck with a bill they may struggle to pay.

A home warranty on a 12-month contract costs anywhere between $40 and about $100 per month, depending on the level of coverage you choose. 

It’s important to review the terms of your warranty so you understand exactly which appliances and systems it includes. You may also have the option to add on additional coverage for your sump pump, ductwork, roof, and more.

The 4 Best Home Warranty Services To Consider in 202

How a Home Warranty Adds to Your Home’s Resale Value

If you carry an active policy on your home, you may increase the final buying price by 1 to 3 percent.

A home warranty that promises to help pay for the cost of repairing and replacing major appliances and home systems helps to ease the anxiety of undertaking such a large responsibility as buying a home. Updating an HVAC system or installing new plumbing can cost thousands of dollars. New homeowners on a tight budget appreciate the protection that home warranty coverage offers to mitigate such a large expense.

Homes with warranties often sell faster than those that don’t. The added peace of mind encourages buyers to make a decision and move forward with the purchase.

Provide Access to Vetted Service Contractors

Another advantage of a home warranty is gaining access to pre-vetted contractors to handle any repairs and servicing. The warranty company can connect you with the best contractor for the job, freeing up your time for other important tasks.

Many home warranty companies provide limited warranties at low or no cost to sellers while the home is on the market or in escrow. It’s common for buyers to request repairs if issues arise during home inspections. As long as the problem wasn’t pre-existing, you can use the home warranty to negotiate with the buyer, pointing out that the policy will cover the cost of repairs so you can proceed with the sale.

Lower the Risk of Expensive Repairs in Older Homes

A home warranty can calm the fears of buyers concerned about the age of your home or its systems and appliances. The coverage can save a sale by conveying to the buyer that the policy will cover the cost of many potential future repairs, making the deal a good value.

Maximize resale value by giving your home listing an edge over the competition. Many buyers prefer to pursue properties that include a home warranty. Including this information in your listing is a good marketing strategy to increase its visibility and attract more interest.

Most policies easily transfer to the new owner, providing them with essential coverage during the first year of owning their new home and ensuring they don't experience budget issues from unexpected breakdowns. If transferred, the cost of the warranty comes out of the proceeds of selling your home.

Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Warranty

Purchasing a home warranty requires a small financial investment. While you may not use your coverage, the value it offers against the average cost of repairs is worthwhile for most homeowners. You can get the most out of your policy by following these tips:

 Review your options and choose the coverage you need to avoid paying for services you likely will never use.

 All warranties have various coverages and exclusions. Know what isn’t covered so you aren’t faced with any denied claims later.

 Delays in filing a claim may lead to a denial.

 Regular maintenance and servicing keep your appliances and home systems in good condition and lower the risk of experiencing a major issue. Keep track of maintenance appointments to prove compliance and prevent issues with warranty regulations that may void the warranty.

When you understand how a home warranty works, you can choose the best value that offers the protection you need. Since these policies renew every 12 months, you can adjust coverage as needed.

Determining the coverage you need is essential to get the best value for your warranty. Consider the age of your home’s appliances and various home systems. 

For example, if you have recently replaced most of your major appliances and they carry manufacturer warranties, you may want to focus on home system coverage. However, if you recently installed new plumbing or updated your electrical system, you could consider a warranty that covers appliances only. 

Regardless of the coverage you choose, the security of offering a home warranty to buyers is a smart decision to maximize the value of your home and encourage a seamless transaction.

You might also be interested in learning more about if you need a 

Maximize your home's resale value with a seller's home warranty. This coverage makes your home an appealing prospect to buyers, translating to a faster, easier sale with less stress. 

Seller's Home Warranty: The Secret Weapon to a Swift and Lucrative Home Sale |Popular Living

Seller's Home Warranty: The Secret Weapon to a Swift and Lucrative Home Sale

As a homeowner, you know that unpredictability comes with the territory of owning a home. System failures and appliance breakdowns can catch you off guard when you least expect them. While you can't predict these events, you can take steps to ensure that you're financially prepared when they do happen. That's why it's crucial to choose a home warranty that meets your unique needs.

In this guide, we'll delve deeper into Fidelity National Home Warranty's plans so that you can better understand what they entail. If you're considering opting for one of their warranties, it's crucial to do your research beforehand. That's why we've put together this Fidelity home warranty review to help you understand what to expect. Here's everything you need to know.

Learn more about Fidelity National Home Warranty

Overview of Fidelity Home Warranty

 (FNHW) is a company that offers a series of budget-friendly home warranties. It provides a base plan as well as optional add-ons for further coverage. If you're looking for additional protection for your air conditioning system, refrigerator or pool equipment, you may need to pay for add-ons to bolster your home warranty.

Residents in 15 states are eligible for FNHW warranty plans. These include Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Utah and Washington.

Our Thoughts on Fidelity National Home Warranty: Is Fidelity Home Warranty Worth It?

One key reason why Fidelity Home Warranty may be worth it for many homeowners is that it comes with a lower price tag than most competitors. This is an attractive feature to many homeowners. That said, make sure you know what to expect when you obtain a Fidelity warranty.

For example, many of the add-ons that you must purchase with an FNHW warranty are already built into most competitors' base plans. It's also worth noting that past customers have had a negative experience with Fidelity Home Warranty's customer service and online interface.

What We Like About Fidelity National Home Warranty

Fidelity National Home Warranty offers some of the most budget-friendly plans in the industry. If you're looking to purchase a home warranty but are concerned that it won't fit into your budget, FNHW may be a good match for your needs. Additionally, because there are multiple tiers to choose from, you can ensure that you're getting the coverage you want without breaking the bank.

Another major benefit is that Fidelity Home Warranty doesn't exclude coverage based on the age of a system or appliance. Provided that the unit still functioned properly at the start of your warranty, it will still be included in your coverage plan regardless of how old it is.

FNHW also charges a deductible of $75 to $85, which is much lower than the national average. This relatively inexpensive deductible solidifies Fidelity Home Warranty's reputation as an affordable option for homeowners. If you want to save money while covering the cost of repairs and replacements to major systems and appliances, FNHW is a good starting point.

What We Don't Like About Fidelity National Home Warranty

While there is a lot to like about Fidelity National Home Warranty, there are also certain things to be leery of. It's important to be aware of the company's legal reputation concerning their claims process. FNHW has been sued by customers, alleging that the company 

 and breached contracts. You may want to look into this if you're considering purchasing a coverage plan from them.

Another issue is the coverage included in Fidelity's warranties. Seamus Nally, CEO of 

t, adds, “Of the leading home warranty companies out there, Fidelity National Home Warranty is usually not one of my favorites. It can still be a good option for plenty of homeowners out there, but what I really don’t like is that their standard plan doesn’t cover a handful of things that most standard plans do (and should) – including washers/dryers and refrigerators.”

“Appliances like these often need repairs far more often than anything else, so having them not covered in the standard plan is disappointing. But, you can get more comprehensive plans with Fidelity that will cover such things - it will just cost more,” Nally continues.

Even if you do choose to purchase add-ons, you won't receive any coverage for units that aren't regularly maintained or secondary systems that fail as a result of a covered appliance or system.

Before you choose a warranty plan, it's crucial to understand the various options available to you. The most basic warranty offered by FNHW is the Standard Plan. This plan covers 23 common household systems and appliances, including the following:

To provide your home with an additional layer of protection, you may also wish to purchase add-ons. FNHW's optional add-ons cover six appliances and systems in addition to the 23 covered in the Standard Plan. These include:

What Isn't Covered by Fidelity National Home Warranty?

To get the most out of this Fidelity Home Warranty review, it's crucial to understand what types of appliances and systems aren't covered by FNHW. Neither the Standard Plan nor the add-ons cover the following:

Systems and appliances that aren’t regularly maintained

Secondary appliances or systems that fail because of a covered appliance or system

Pricing for Fidelity National Home Warranty Plans

 from FNHW is considered relatively low when compared to other home warranty providers. The minimum annual price for a Fidelity Home Warranty plan is $350. However, the overall cost is largely determined by the plan you choose as well as any add-ons you pay for. Bearing this in mind, some warranties can cost homeowners up to $445. It's also worth noting that the average service fee for an FNHW warranty is $75.

Fidelity National Home Warranty Claims Process

They make the process very simple and intuitive if you're looking to file a claim under Fidelity National Home Warranty. All you need to do is create an account with Fidelity Home Warranty via their website. Once you have an account, simply navigate to their 

, where you'll be prompted to enter your contract number or street address. From there, you can quickly submit a claim for service.

If you prefer to file a claim over the phone, you can also call a Fidelity customer representative directly at 1-800-862-6837.

Who Is Fidelity National Home Warranty For?

Fidelity National Home Warranty is best suited to homeowners who are on a tight budget. If you want to enjoy the benefits of a home warranty without spending too much money, FNHW is a safer option for newer or younger homeowners. In addition, if you don't need a lot of coverage and are just looking to protect a few very basic appliances, FNHW's plans will likely suit your needs.

What People Say About Fidelity National Home Warranty

Reviews and opinions about Fidelity National Home Warranty

 vary widely, as is common with most service-oriented companies. Here are some key points from reviewers:

 Many customers appreciate the broad range of coverage options that Fidelity National Home Warranty provides. Their plans often cover essential home systems and appliances, which can save significant money on unexpected repairs.

 Some reviews highlight positive interactions with customer service representatives who are helpful and responsive. These customers often note that their issues were addressed promptly and satisfactorily.

 Users frequently commend the simplicity of filing claims and the straightforward process. The ability to submit requests online or via phone is often cited as a convenient aspect of their service.

 A common complaint among some users is about claims being denied. Customers have expressed frustration when they feel their legitimate repair requests are not honored under the terms they believed were in their contract.

: Delays in service or scheduling conflicts with contractors are also points of contention in some reviews. These delays can be particularly troublesome when they involve essential home systems like heating or plumbing.

: The quality and professionalism of contracted service providers can vary. Some customers have reported negative experiences with contractors who did not meet their expectations regarding service quality or professionalism.

When considering a home warranty company like Fidelity National Home Warranty, it's crucial to read the terms and conditions of the service agreement carefully to understand what is covered and what is not. Checking the latest user reviews on various platforms and considering personal home maintenance needs can also help you make an informed decision.

Learn More 

Learn more 

Fidelity vs Competitors 

If you still have questions, here are a few commonly asked questions in regards to Fidelity Home Warranty. 

How long will my home be under warranty with Fidelity National Home Warranty?

Your home will be under warranty for one year upon receipt of payment. Once your warranty begins to approach the expiration date, you can choose to renew it at any time.

Will I have to pay a higher service fee if I own an older home?

No. FNHW's home warranty covers a home regardless of its age. In addition, this plan covers any brand or manufacturer of appliances and systems. Keep in mind, however, that all appliances and systems must be in good condition once your warranty plan begins.

What can I expect once my claim is covered?

When your claim has been covered, you typically have two options to choose from. The first option is to have FNHW perform the necessary repairs. The second option is to accept cash in lieu of the covered claim. Regardless of which option you choose, FNHW always strives to make sure that you receive a timely resolution to your service claim. For situations in which you might need to take cash in lieu of a covered claim, please refer to your contract.

What are the key differences between homeowner's insurance and a home warranty?

Homeowner's insurance and a home warranty both offer a wide range of distinct benefits. The main 

 is to cover losses and damage to your property in the event of an unexpected occurrence. It covers items damaged in events such as fire, smoke, theft, vandalism, and natural disasters.

A home warranty, on the other hand, covers repairs or replacements when the appliances and systems in your home break down through normal wear and tear. It's vital to have a trusted insurance plan as well as a home warranty to maximize your protection as much as possible.

The Bottom Line: How Fidelity National Home Warranty Compares to Competitors

Fidelity Home Warranty's coverage plans come at a lower price than most of its competitors, which may be an attractive feature to homeowners. However, it's important to consider the coverage that you're getting with an FNHW warranty. Many of the add-ons offered by FNHW are already included in most competitors' standard plans. Additionally, many past customers have reported a negative customer service and online experience.

If you've been considering getting a Fidelity Home Warranty plan, consider your goals and budget before deciding. By taking this Fidelity Home Warranty review into account, you can ensure that you choose the best plan for your needs.

Learn more about Fidelity National Home Warranty plans and what they entail. We've compiled everything you need to know, from coverage to cost, into this guide.

Are Home Warranties Worth It? Pros, Cons, Coverage & Cost

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Are Home Warranties Worth It? Pros, Cons, Coverage & Cost

Seller's Home Warranty: The Secret Weapon to a Swift and Lucrative Home Sale

Your Comprehensive Guide to Fidelity National Home Warranty

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