For many Poconos custom homeowners, reading through the new home warranty is about as exciting as watching grass grow. Is it really worth the effort? Is a home warranty all that important?
As builders, we think it is. It’s part of our contract with you and demonstrates our commitment to you. In our case, we think it also gives you confidence that you’re buying quality craftsmanship you can rely on.
We’ve found, however, that many homeowners are a bit unclear about what’s covered in a new home warranty and what’s not. More specifically, we’ve discovered that homeowners don’t always know who is responsible for different items in their new home.
In general, new home warranties provide you with limited coverage on workmanship and materials for things such as siding, doors, windows and roofing. Generally, the new home warranty will also cover HVAC systems, electrical work and general plumbing. You should expect a 12-month warranty on these items. But you’ll want to go over the warranty with your builder before you sign a contract just to be sure.
We’ve found that homeowners sometimes get confused on the warranty coverage of household appliances, such as stoves, dishwashers, disposals and other major appliances. You don’t need to be overly concerned about those things. It’s just that if you should have a problem, you’ll need to deal with the manufacturer, as those items are covered under the manufacturers’ warranties. After all, your builder didn’t build your washing machine! Just make sure you’re clear about whom to call should you have a problem.
While we’re discussing what isn’t included in your home warranty, there are some things pertaining directly to the house itself that won’t be covered. Minor cosmetic imperfections, such as drywall cracks or minor stress cracks in concrete won’t be covered by a warranty—because they don’t compromise the safety or quality of the home. They are simply normal events that sometimes occur as a new house settles.
It’s important for you to know that your builder stands behind the work he or she does. That’s one reason it’s so important to deal with a builder you can trust—one who has a solid reputation in the community and has been around long enough to establish that kind of standing.
If you’re looking for additional information about building a custom home in the Poconos, we invite you to download our Free New Home Buyers Guide, which will walk you through all the information you need to start your journey toward your dream home! This e-book provides helpful advice to guide you from the beginning of your search to the completion of your new custom home.
