What's the Difference Between Home Warranties and Home Inspections?

Buying a home? Click here to perform a full home search
Selling a home? Click here for a FREE Home Value Report

Today, we'll discuss the differences between a home warranty, home insurance, and a home inspection.

The home warranty covers items such as the appliances, the water heater, and heating and air conditioning systems. This is different than most home insurance policies, which would cover you for a fire or, depending on your area, flooding.

Home inspections come during your inspection period, usually within the first 17 days of the contract period. A home inspector looks over the home to determine the quality and condition of certain components of the home. It is not an insurance policy; this just gives you a clear idea of the condition of the home.

When getting a warranty, be aware that different home warranties cover different things. For example, if you get a warranty for the pool on the property, that would typically only cover items above the ground, such as the heater and the pump. It would not cover any cracks or leaks that develop in the pool. So when selecting a warranty, really read through it and see what is covered.

When you get a home inspection, make sure you have a certified home inspector. There is no license for home inspectors in California, but you can at least get someone who is certified.

I hope this clears up any confusion for you. If you have further questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. I would be happy to help you!