Find the Best Home Warranty in Tampa, FL

How to choose a home warranty in Tampa

Home warranties are enticing to buyers when you’re selling your home, and they can also protect your rental property if you’re an investor. Older homes like those in Ybor and Seminole Heights have the potential for a lot of repairs, and a warranty can help keep costs down.

In Tampa, the average cost of a warranty is $309 per year, which is well below the national average of $828. Typically, a warranty on your Tampa property will cover the following:

Basic warranty plan

• Heating and cooling systems, such as the replacement of a furnace or an air conditioning repair
• Plumbing and electrical systems
• Appliances such as washers, dryers, refrigerators and dishwashers

Extended warranty plan

• Swimming pools and hot tubs
• Garage doors and garage door openers

Tampa temperatures stay high, and not only in the summer. Extreme heat and rain cause problems for your property. Roof leaks may cause water damage and mold, and your air conditioning unit works overtime.

Homeowners insurance is typically a requirement for Tampa homes, according to the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation, especially if it has a mortgage. A home warranty can benefit you even if your property is insured. For example, while insurance should cover the damage that a leaking water heater does to your floors, the policy may not cover the replacement of that water heater. Depending on your plan, the home warranty may cover the cost of your new hot water heater.

Most warranty plans are offered by home sellers. However, if you’re buying a new home without one, you can still purchase a home warranty in Tampa on your own. This is an especially good idea if you don’t have a lot of cash saved up to pay for unexpected issues. You can buy a warranty at any time, even if you have already closed on the property or you’ve been living in it for months or even years.

The cost of a home warranty in Tampa

Most warranty plans will have a monthly fee. If something breaks and you file a claim, you’ll pay a service charge to have a technician come out and diagnose the problem. The warranty company has a network of approved vendors and contractors. You probably won’t have any control over who does the work.

Before you buy a home warranty, read the contract carefully so you know what’s covered and what isn’t. You also want to understand all the costs and the timeframe. Finally, read customer reviews so you know what to expect in terms of service.