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FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

Everything you need to know about home warranty coverage with DriveGuard.

Home warranty basics

What is a home warranty?

A home warranty is a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of major home systems and appliances that fail from normal wear and tear. You pay a yearly or monthly plan price and a fixed service fee when a technician visits.

How is this different from homeowners insurance?

Homeowners insurance covers sudden damage from events like fire or storms. A home warranty covers breakdowns from everyday use — the furnace that quits in January or the refrigerator that stops cooling.

Do my systems and appliances need to be new?

No. Covered items of any age are eligible as long as they are in good working order when coverage begins. We don’t require an inspection or maintenance records to enroll.

What is a pre-existing condition?

A problem that existed — and that you knew or reasonably could have known about — before your coverage started. Pre-existing conditions are not covered, which is why we ask about known issues when you enroll.

Who should buy a home warranty?

Homeowners with aging systems, first-time buyers inheriting unfamiliar appliances, landlords and property managers who want predictable repair costs, and sellers who want to protect a pending sale.

Is a home warranty worth it?

A home warranty is usually worth it if one major repair would strain your budget or your systems and appliances are more than a few years old. Replacing a central air conditioner can cost $5,000–$7,500 and a furnace $3,000–$6,000, while a year of coverage costs less than $900 plus your service fee.

What does a home warranty not cover?

Home warranties do not cover pre-existing conditions, damage from lack of maintenance, misuse, pests, fire, flood or other acts of nature, cosmetic defects, commercial-grade equipment, or items not listed in your contract. Each plan also has per-item coverage limits.

Can I buy a home warranty at any time?

Yes. Homeowners can buy a DriveGuard plan at any time, not only when buying or selling a home. No home inspection is required, and coverage begins 30 days after your contract is approved.

Plans & pricing

What is the service fee?

A flat amount you pay per service request, regardless of the repair cost. Your fee is listed on your contract and in My DriveGuard.

Is there a waiting period?

Coverage begins 30 days after your contract is approved. Home buyers whose plan is purchased at closing are covered from the closing date.

Can I cancel?

Yes. You may cancel within 30 days for a full refund less any claims paid, and anytime after that for a pro-rated refund as described in your service agreement.

Can I pay monthly?

Yes. Every plan is available with monthly or annual billing. Annual billing saves about 10% compared with paying monthly.

Can I add coverage for my pool, well or septic system?

Yes. Pool and spa equipment, well pumps, septic systems, an additional refrigerator and roof leak repair can be added to plans where they are not already included.

Are there coverage limits?

Yes. Each plan has a per-item limit shown on the plans page and in your contract, and some items such as ductwork and roof leaks have their own limits.

How much does a home warranty cost?

DriveGuard plans cost $49 to $79 per month, or $529 to $869 per year with annual billing. You also pay a flat service fee of $75 to $100 per technician visit, depending on your plan. Pricing can vary by state and property.

Where is DriveGuard Home Warranty available?

DriveGuard home warranty plans are offered across the United States. Coverage, pricing and service fees can vary by state, so check the state availability page or request a quote for your address.

Service requests

Who performs the repairs?

We dispatch a licensed, insured technician from our network, typically within 24–48 hours of approval. Emergencies are prioritized.

How do I request service?

Sign in to My DriveGuard and choose “Request service,” or call our claims line any time. You’ll get a request number immediately and can track every update online.

How quickly will a technician arrive?

Most technicians contact you within 24–48 hours of approval. Situations that threaten health or safety, such as no heat in winter, are prioritized.

What happens if my item can’t be repaired?

If a covered item can’t be repaired, we replace it with one of similar features and capacity, up to your plan’s coverage limit. In some cases we may offer cash in lieu of replacement.

What if the technician finds something not covered?

The technician will explain the finding and any out-of-pocket options before work begins. You are never charged for non-covered work without your approval.

Real estate

Can a seller or agent buy a plan for the buyer?

Yes. Plans can be purchased by a buyer, seller or agent and are often paid at closing. Coverage for buyers starts on the closing date.

Is there coverage while my home is listed?

Seller coverage is available during the listing period so a breakdown doesn’t derail the sale. Ask your agent or call us for details.

Do real estate partners receive compensation?

Where permitted by law and the partner’s brokerage, approved partners may receive referral compensation under a written agreement. Some partners participate without compensation.

Still have questions?

Our team is available 7 days a week to help you choose the right coverage.