Question 1

What is a home warranty, and how is it different from homeowners insurance?

Accepted Answer

A home warranty is a service contract that covers repair or replacement costs for major home systems and appliances breaking down from normal use. Homeowners insurance covers property damage or loss from unexpected events like natural disasters or theft—it does not handle routine wear-related failures.

Question 2

What appliances and systems are typically covered?

Accepted Answer

Standard coverage includes central HVAC (furnace, AC, ductwork), plumbing (water heater, pipes, fixtures), electrical (panels, switches), and kitchen/laundry appliances (refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, washer/dryer, garbage disposal).

Question 3

What should I check before buying a plan (contract, caps, exclusions, reviews)?

Accepted Answer

Review the full contract for payout caps per item/category, detailed exclusions (e.g., pre-existing conditions, rust), maintenance requirements, and third-party reviews for claim approval rates.

Question 4

What does a home warranty cover and what does it NOT cover?

Accepted Answer

Covers: Parts and labour listed on the coverage chart. Anything not listed is not covered.

Question 5

How do you choose the best home warranty company?

Accepted Answer

Compare contractor flexibility, deductible amounts, coverage caps, exclusions, customer reviews (e.g., Google, BBB), and extra benefits like free perks or reimbursement speed.

Question 6

What does “gray areas / fine print” usually mean in home warranties?

Accepted Answer

"Gray areas" refer to ambiguous or broadly worded exclusions in contracts that lead to claim denials, such as:

Lack of documented maintenance (e.g., no HVAC tune-up records).
Pre-existing conditions or "known defects."
Failures attributed to rust, corrosion, improper sizing/installation, or secondary causes.
Caps applied after depreciation or "fair market value" adjustments.

Industry sources highlight frequent denials for these reasons, with complaints about vague language allowing companies to interpret against coverage. HomeMembership aims for transparency with a fixed chart but still includes standard exclusions.

Question 7

What questions should I ask before I buy a home warranty?

Accepted Answer

Key industry-recommended questions:

What are the exact per-item and aggregate caps?
What are common exclusions (e.g., pre-existing, access costs, secondary damage)?
How are claims handled (dispatch vs. reimbursement; contractor choice)?
What is the deductible/service fee and claim denial rate?
Can I review a sample contract and recent customer reviews?

Question 8

Is a home warranty worth it, or should I self-insure?

Accepted Answer

It depends, in 2025 reviews are mixed. Warranties suit older homes, tight budgets, or risk-averse owners (peace of mind for major repairs). Self-insuring often proves better for newer homes or those with emergency funds, as premiums/service fees can exceed payouts amid denials.

Question 9

Why do home warranties have waiting periods (industry-wide)?

Accepted Answer

Waiting periods (typically 30 days) prevent fraud, stopping purchases solely for known impending breakdowns. They ensure fairness and allow baseline condition assessment.

Question 10

What does “wear and tear” cover vs not cover?

Accepted Answer

Covers: Gradual breakdowns from normal everyday use of properly maintained, installed items.

Question 11

Are add-ons available (roof, extra units, specialty items)?

Accepted Answer

Yes, common add-ons include roof leak repair, pools/spas, septic systems, well pumps, extra refrigerators, or guest units.

Question 12

Are outdoor items covered (exterior lines, pool equipment, sprinkler systems)?

Accepted Answer

Core plans cover only interior systems and appliances. Outdoor items generally require add-ons:

Item	Coverage Status	Limit (if add-on)	Notes
Exterior Water/Sewer Lines	Add-on required (Main Water/Municipal Sewer)	$1,000 each	Municipal connections only
Pool Equipment	Add-on required (fresh water pools)	$600	Equipment only, not structure
Sprinkler Systems	Not covered	N/A	Irrigation systems excluded

Detached structures or exterior components (e.g., patio wiring) are not covered.

Question 13

Are garage appliances covered (extra fridge/freezer, washer/dryer in garage)?

Accepted Answer

Core coverage applies to appliances within the main home foundation and attached garage perimeter. Standard washers and dryers (even in the garage) are covered with limits (e.g., $1,700–$2,075 total per unit). Primary refrigerators are included regardless of location if inside or attached garage.

Extra or standalone freezers/deep freezers require the Deep Freezer add-on ($400 limit). Detached garages, converted garage living spaces, or exterior units are excluded unless optional coverage is added.

Question 14

Are “jetted tubs,” special pumps, or niche items covered?

Accepted Answer

Jetted tubs (whirlpools/Jacuzzis) and most special pumps (e.g., jet pumps, aerobic pumps) are not covered under HomeMembership's core plan. Sump pumps and grinder pumps are available only as premium add-ons ($550 limit each). Other niche items like central vacuums have limited coverage ($325 total), but speciality fixtures like jetted tubs are excluded entirely.

Question 15

What’s covered for sewer/drain stoppages and main line issues?

Accepted Answer

Core coverage excludes stoppages/clogs, line clearing, roots, or foreign objects. Internal drain issues lack coverage. Main/municipal lines require add-ons:

Item	Coverage Status	Limit (if add-on)	Notes
Exterior Water/Sewer Lines	Add-on required (Main Water/Municipal Sewer)	$1,000 each	Municipal connections only
Pool Equipment	Add-on required (fresh water pools)	$600	Equipment only, not structure
Sprinkler Systems	Not covered	N/A	Irrigation systems excluded

Question 16

Are optional upgrades available (roof, extra appliances, extra HVAC, etc.)?

Accepted Answer

Yes. HomeMembership offers numerous add-ons (monthly fees apply):

Item	Coverage Status	Limit (if add-on)	Notes
Exterior Water/Sewer Lines	Add-on required (Main Water/Municipal Sewer)	$1,000 each	Municipal connections only
Pool Equipment	Add-on required (fresh water pools)	$600	Equipment only, not structure
Sprinkler Systems	Not covered	N/A	Irrigation systems excluded

Extra HVAC units are not explicitly addable; core covers one primary central system.

Question 17

Do you offer maintenance memberships separate from warranty coverage?

Accepted Answer

Yes we have a stand alone maintenance plan.

Question 18

Do you do replacements?

Accepted Answer

If you chose to replace due to the system's age or the part is no longer manufactured and you must replace it, HomeMembership will indemnify you by sending you the money for the covered part and labor listed in the coverage chart. You can apply these funds towards your upgrade or replacement. Please keep in mind Home Membership does not send out a technician to diagnose or potentially deny like other warranty providers. We also do not depreciate parts like other warranty companies.

Question 19

My ac is out and tech said it needs to be replaced, how does this work?

Accepted Answer

If you chose to upgrade your HVAC due to the system's age or the part is no longer manufactured and you must replace it, HomeMembership will indemnify you by sending you the money for the covered part and labor listed in the coverage chart. You can apply these funds towards your upgrade or replacement. Please keep in mind Home Membership does not send out a technician to diagnose or potentially deny like other warranty providers.

Question 20

I need my appliance replaced. How does that work?

Accepted Answer

If you chose to upgrade your appliance due to the system's age or the part is no longer manufactured and you must replace it, HomeMembership will indemnify you by sending you the money for the covered part and labor listed in the coverage chart. You can apply these funds towards your upgrade or replacement. Please keep in mind Home Membership does not send out a technician to diagnose or potentially deny like other warranty providers.

Question 21

What does a home warranty cost per month vs per year?

Accepted Answer

In 2025, industry plans typically range $50–$87 monthly ($600–$1,050 annually), depending on coverage scope and location.

Question 22

What’s the difference between a premium, service fee, and deductible?

Accepted Answer

The premium is the ongoing plan cost (monthly or annual). A service fee (or deductible) is the amount paid per claim, often $75–$150 industry-wide, paid to the technician or as a deductible.

Question 23

What is the deductible/service call fee, and when do I pay it?

Accepted Answer

In the home warranty industry, this is commonly called a service call fee, trade call fee, or deductible, averaging $65–$150 per claim in 2025. You typically pay it directly to the technician when they arrive for diagnosis or repair, even if the claim is later denied.

HomeMembership operates differently with its reimbursement model: the fixed $25 deductible deducts from your approved reimbursement amount after you pay the licensed contractor in full upfront and submit the paid invoice.

Question 24

Is the deductible really $25, and does it ever change?

Accepted Answer

Yes, HomeMembership's deductible is a consistent $25 per claim occurrence across all plans and add-ons. It does not increase based on claim size, item type, or other factors. Multiple unrelated failures in one service visit may trigger separate deductibles.

Question 25

What are out-of-pocket costs besides the monthly plan?

Accepted Answer

$25 deductible per claim (subtracted from reimbursement).
Any repair costs exceeding predefined limits.
Non-covered items (e.g., access to hard-to-reach areas, secondary damages, maintenance, permits).

Question 26

What is the maximum payout/coverage cap per item?

Accepted Answer

HomeMembership uses fixed predefined limits per component (no depreciation):

Item	Coverage Status	Limit (if add-on)	Notes
Exterior Water/Sewer Lines	Add-on required (Main Water/Municipal Sewer)	$1,000 each	Municipal connections only
Pool Equipment	Add-on required (fresh water pools)	$600	Equipment only, not structure
Sprinkler Systems	Not covered	N/A	Irrigation systems excluded

Category aggregates apply (e.g., HVAC $13,035 total). Some occurrences capped (e.g., $1,250 general, $1,600 HVAC).

Question 27

What is “liability limit” and “maximum aggregate” coverage?

Accepted Answer

Liability Limit: The company's maximum responsibility per claim occurrence ($1,250 general; $1,600 for HVAC).
Maximum Aggregate Coverage: Total payout caps per category or add-on over the term (e.g., $13,035 HVAC including parts $8,335 + labor $4,700; add-ons like pool $600 yearly).

These prevent unlimited payouts while providing defined protection.

Question 28

What happens if the repair cost exceeds my plan limits?

Accepted Answer

Reimbursement caps strictly at the item's fixed limit (e.g., $1,300 for compressor). You pay any excess directly to the contractor.

Question 29

Do you cover depreciation or only fair market value?

Accepted Answer

HomeMembership does not apply depreciation or calculate fair market value. Coverage follows predefined fixed limits per component (parts + capped labor hours at $100/hour), providing predictable payouts regardless of item age. Many traditional providers reduce payouts based on depreciation for older units.

Question 30

What is a “trade call fee,” and is it per claim or per visit?

Accepted Answer

A "trade call fee" (or service call fee) is the industry term for the per-claim/visit out-of-pocket amount paid when initiating service. In traditional dispatched plans, it's paid directly to the technician. HomeMembership uses a $125 deductible per service request (covering up to two parts; additional deductibles for third+ parts).

Question 31

What are the biggest exclusions that surprise homeowners?

Accepted Answer

Common surprises (2025 sources):

Access/restoration costs (drywall, flooring).
Permits, disposal/haul-away.
Code upgrades/compatibility.
Secondary damages.
Pre-existing conditions.
Maintenance-related denials.
Caps on payouts.

Question 32

What “extras” do most people forget to ask about (permits, disposal, access)?

Accepted Answer

Forgotten extras (not covered):

Permits/taxes/fees.
Haul-away/disposal/delivery.
Access charges (cranes, restoration).
Drive time/consultation.
Non-direct repair labor.

Question 33

How do claims work from start to finish?

Accepted Answer

Verify coverage → Hire your preferred licensed contractor → Pay for repair upfront → Submit detailed invoice and proof → Receive reimbursement for approved amounts minus deductible.

Question 34

What documentation do I need for a successful claim?

Accepted Answer

For HomeMembership claims:

One clear, itemized paid invoice from a licensed contractor, including: business name/address/phone, state license number, official diagnosis of the failed part, separate breakdowns of parts costs and labor hours/rates, and proof of payment (e.g., marked "paid" or credit card receipt).
For HVAC claims or repairs over $500: before/after photos.
For replacements: part/parts falure
Submit everything legibly (no screenshots) via our claim page https://homemembership.com/start-claim/ within 14 days of repair completion.

Incomplete documentation is a leading cause of delays or denials.

Question 35

Do you cover diagnostics/inspection fees?

Accepted Answer

Standalone diagnostic or inspection fees are generally not covered. HomeMembership reimburses diagnostic labor only if it leads to (and is included in) a covered repair. Diagnosis-only visits or routine inspections (e.g., real estate transactions) are at your expense.

Question 36

How do I file a claim faster and avoid delays?

Accepted Answer

Verify coverage using your plan chart first.
Choose a reliable licensed contractor for clear, itemized invoicing.
Gather all required documentation upfront (full invoice, photos if applicable).
Submit accurately and completely via portal or email within 14 days.
Respond promptly to any follow-up requests for info or verification.

Question 37

What steps should I follow before submitting a claim?

Accepted Answer

Review your coverage chart/brochure to confirm the item and failure qualify.
Ensure the home has been occupied (no >30 consecutive vacant days) and maintenance performed.
Hire a licensed contractor for diagnosis.
Obtain an itemised invoice with official diagnosis

Question 38

Can I submit claims online? Where?

Accepted Answer

Yes, submit via the website at https://homemembership.com/start-claim/

Question 39

How long does a typical repair take after a claim is opened?

Accepted Answer

In HomeMembership's model, there is no "claim opening" wait for dispatch, repair timeline depends entirely on your scheduling with your chosen contractor (often same-day or next-day for emergencies). Company review and reimbursement occur after repair completion, with variable processing time.

Traditional dispatched plans may take days to weeks due to contractor availability.

Question 40

What emergencies are covered (no heat/AC, no water, electrical hazards)?

Accepted Answer

Qualifying emergencies, such as no heat, failed AC components causing no cooling, plumbing failures resulting in no water, or electrical hazards from covered breakdowns are treated as standard claims. The reimbursement process remains the same: arrange your own licensed contractor urgently, pay upfront, and submit documentation for approval. 24/7 submission is available online.

Question 41

What happens if I file a claim on day one?

Accepted Answer

Claims are accepted from day one. For direct consumer plans, reimbursements cap at half the normal fixed limits if filed within the first 30 days. Real estate plans (buyer/seller) face no initial reduction.

Question 42

Are labor-only service calls covered?

Accepted Answer

No, standalone labor-only calls (e.g., diagnosis without a covered repair, or service without parts replacement) are not reimbursed.

Question 43

What labor is covered vs not covered?

Accepted Answer

Covered: Direct labor for repairing/replacing the failed covered component, capped at $100/hour and specific hours per item (e.g., 4 hours/$400 for HVAC compressor).

Not covered: Diagnosis-only, drive time, consultation, extra access (hard-to-reach areas), unused hours from prior claims, code upgrades, permits, disposal, or labor beyond chart limits.

Aspect	Covered	Not Covered
Rate	$100/hour	Any rate above or extras
Scope	Direct repair labor on failed part	Access, diagnosis-only, maintenance
Caps	Item-specific hours (e.g., 3 hrs water heater)	Exceeding caps or complexity

Question 44

How do you qualify a claim for approval?

Accepted Answer

A claim qualifies if:

The breakdown is a covered component failing from normal wear and tear post-effective date.
No exclusions apply (e.g., pre-existing, neglect).
Full documentation (itemized paid invoice, diagnosis) is submitted. HomeMembership verifies alignment with the coverage chart during review.

Question 45

What happens if parts are backordered or discontinued?

Accepted Answer

The terms do not explicitly address discontinued or backordered parts, but reimbursement follows the fixed chart limit for the component. Industry practice often involves cash settlement up to the cap or approval of a comparable replacement; you may cover additional costs for alternatives.

Question 46

What’s the repair vs replace decision process?

Accepted Answer

The process relies on your licensed contractor's official diagnosis. Repair is covered for the failed component up to chart limits. If replacement is recommended (with supporting invoice/diagnosis), reimbursement applies to one primary failed part + labor (per chart), contributing toward a new unit. A second opinion is recommended for major replacements.

Question 47

Do you replace it with comparable equipment or the same brand/model?

Accepted Answer

HomeMembership does not directly replace equipment. Reimbursement covers the failed primary part's chart limit, which you can apply toward purchasing a comparable new unit, no requirement or guarantee for the same brand, model, or exact match.

Question 48

What are the most common claim denial reasons?

Accepted Answer

Not listed on the coverage chart as a covered time. Past the 14 day window of repair to submit for reimbursement.

Question 49

Do you cover pre-existing conditions (known vs unknown)?

Accepted Answer

Known defects or issues evident before the effective date are excluded. Unknown pre-existing conditions may be denied if not proven functional at start (e.g., via maintenance records). Real estate plans strictly exclude anything noted in inspections unless repaired with proof.

Question 50

What if I already started the repair before calling?

Accepted Answer

Repairs started before the effective date or without prior documentation may be denied as pre-existing conditions. Claims require breakdowns occurring after coverage starts; pre-initiated work risks full exclusion.

Question 51

Do you cover damage caused by an appliance/system failure?

Accepted Answer

No, secondary or consequential damages (e.g., water damage from a burst pipe, mold, food spoilage, or property loss due to a failure) are explicitly excluded. Coverage applies only to repairing/replacing the primary failed component itself.

Question 52

Do you cover mold, rot, mildew, or water damage?

Accepted Answer

No, secondary or consequential damages, including mold, mildew, rot, fungus, water damage, or related issues (even if resulting from a covered failure), are excluded.

Question 53

Do you cover haul-away, disposal, permits, or code upgrades?

Accepted Answer

No, these are explicitly excluded. Coverage applies only to direct repair/replacement of the failed component. No reimbursement for disposal fees, permitting, taxes, code compliance upgrades, restoration (e.g., drywall), or lifting equipment.

Question 54

Do you cover toxic materials, asbestos, permits, or code upgrades?

Accepted Answer

No, exclusions include code upgrades, permits, disposal, haul-away, and any costs for toxic/hazardous materials (e.g., mold remediation). Systems requiring upgrades for compatibility or code compliance are your responsibility.

Question 55

Do you cover power surges, electrical overload, or storm-related failures?

Accepted Answer

No, power surges, shortages, overloads, inadequate capacity, or damage from storms/Acts of God (e.g., fire, flood, freeze) are explicitly excluded. These typically fall under homeowners insurance.

Question 56

What if the job requires special access or extra labor hours?

Accepted Answer

Extra labor for special/difficult access (e.g., cutting drywall, attics, cranes, lifting equipment) or hours exceeding the item's capped allowance is not covered. Labor is strictly limited to predefined hours at $100/hour per component, no extensions for complexity.

Question 57

Are noises and smells covered (rattling, humming, burning odor)?

Accepted Answer

No. HomeMembership explicitly excludes coverage for failures due to odors, gas leaks, or noises. Industry-wide, standalone noises (e.g., rattling, humming) or smells (e.g., burning odor) are not covered unless diagnosed as part of a covered mechanical breakdown of a specific component. If the unit functions properly, symptoms alone do not qualify.

Question 58

Are nuisance issues covered if the unit still “works”?

Accepted Answer

No. Coverage applies only to inoperable breakdowns affecting function. Nuisance or routine issues (e.g., minor vibrations, inefficiencies, or annoyances) where the system/appliance still works are excluded, including routine maintenance or failures without impact on primary operation.

Question 59

What voids coverage?

Accepted Answer

Coverage voids or denies for:

Fraud/misrepresentation.
Non-payment or missed installments.
Vacancy >30 consecutive days.
Commercial/business use.

Question 60

What happens if my home is vacant or unoccupied?

Accepted Answer

Coverage is denied for claims if the home has been vacant or unoccupied for more than 30 consecutive days. The property must be continuously lived in for active protection.

Question 61

What appliances and systems are typically covered?

Accepted Answer

Standard coverage includes central HVAC (furnace, AC, ductwork), plumbing (water heater, pipes, fixtures), electrical (panels, switches), and kitchen/laundry appliances (refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, washer/dryer, garbage disposal).

Question 62

Does coverage apply to condos, townhomes, duplexes, or multi-family units?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but limited to the individual unit's interior systems/appliances; common areas or shared equipment are not covered.

HomeMembership Specifics

Question 63

Do you cover key home systems in older homes?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there are no age restrictions on homes or systems. Coverage applies to older homes as long as items are in good working order at the effective date, with no pre-existing or known defects.

Question 64

How do multiple units work (2 HVAC systems, 2 water heaters, 2 fridges)?

Accepted Answer

Core coverage limits to one primary unit/system per category (e.g., one central HVAC, one water heater, one refrigerator). Additional units (e.g., second fridge as deep freezer add-on, or dual systems) are not automatically covered, may require custom add-ons or separate policies if available.

Add-On	Limit	Monthly Cost	Notes
Main Water Line	$1,000	$12.50	Exterior main only
Municipal Sewer Line	$1,000	$12.50	Municipal connection
Septic System	$500	$9.75	Tank/pump related

Add-On Category	Examples	Limit	Monthly Cost (approx.)
Plumbing	Main Water Line, Municipal Sewer, Septic, Sump/Grinder Pump	$500–$1,000	$9.75–$12.50
Electrical	Electrical/Telecom Line, Radon Fan	$400–$1,000	$7.58–$12.50
Appliances	Deep Freezer, Water Softener	$400	$7.58
Other	Roof Leak Repair, Termite Damage, Pool (Fresh Water)	$450–$1,000	$8.67–$12.50
General	Member Recommended Endorsement	+$3,000	Varies

Example Items	Parts Limit	Labor Limit	Total Limit
Refrigerator	Up to $1,375	Varies (e.g., 10 hrs)	$2,475
Compressor (HVAC)	$900	4 hrs / $400	$1,300
Water Heater	$650	3 hrs / $300	$950
Breaker Panel	$375	2.5 hrs / $250	$625

Component	Parts Limit	Labor (Hours / $100/hr)	Total Limit
Compressor	$900	4 hrs / $400	$1,300
Evaporator Coil	$550	4 hrs / $400	$950
Blower Motor	$350	1.5 hrs / $150	$500
Condensing Fan Motor	$350	1 hr / $100	$450
Freon/Refrigerant (up to 8 lbs)	$160 ($20/lb)	1 hr / $100	$260
Inducer Motor	$375	1.5 hrs / $150	$525

Component	Parts Limit	Labor (Hours / $100/hr)	Total Limit
Heat Exchanger (Furnace)	$450	4 hrs / $400	$850
Heat Pump	$1,200	4 hrs / $400	$1,600
Air Handler	$900	4 hrs / $400	$1,300

Home Warranty Information: Questions and Answers

4.7 / 5

Home Warranty Basics (General)

Home Warranty Basics

Add-ons & Specialty Coverage

Costs, Fees & Value

Claims Process

Denials & Exclusions

Coverage Overview

HomeMembership Specifics

Contractors & Service Model

Real Estate Plans

System-Specific Detail

Terms, Renewals & Billing

Account & Support

Availability & Eligibility

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