Homeowner Resources

Richmond Habitat 1 Year Home Warranty

The work that Richmond Metropolitan Habitat for Humanity (RMHFH) performs on your home is under a one-year warranty after the purchase of your home. You can make a warranty claim at any time during the first year via an online form at richmondhabitat.org/warranty and our team will reach out. Details on the limitations of this warranty can be found in the warranty signed at closing. If you need a copy, please email homeownership@richmondhabitat.org.

Subcontractor Warranty 

Local subcontractors who have been hired by RMHFH for large system installations (HVAC, plumbing, etc) will also be expected to warranty their labor for one full year.  If you have questions about a subcontractor’s warranty, you should contact the subcontractor directly.  You can find a list of the subcontractors who worked on your home in the Warranty Guide, which was provided at your walk-through.

Manufacturer Warranty

Although labor (whether through Habitat or subcontractors) is covered for only one year, parts of systems, pieces of appliances, or even materials might be covered for significantly longer (usually between 2-10 years). If you hire a technician for repairs, be sure to check with the manufacturer to see if parts or materials are under warranty to save money.

Home Warranty After Habitat’s One-Year Warranty

Habitat provides a one-year warranty to address construction-related items during the first year of homeownership. After this period ends, ongoing maintenance and repairs become the homeowner’s responsibility. Some homeowners choose to purchase a home warranty as an additional layer of protection for major systems and appliances, but it is important to understand what a warranty does—and does not—cover before purchasing a plan.

What a Home Warranty Typically Covers

A home warranty is a service contract (not insurance) that may help cover the repair or replacement of certain home systems and appliances due to normal wear and tear. Coverage commonly includes items such as HVAC systems, electrical, plumbing, water heaters, and major appliances like refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers. However, warranties usually do not cover structural issues, roof replacements, cosmetic damage, or problems caused by lack of maintenance, improper installation, or pre-existing conditions.

Homeowners should expect service fees (often called trade call fees) each time a technician is sent out, as well as coverage limits and exclusions listed in the contract. It is important to read the full agreement carefully so you understand caps on payouts, waiting periods, and any maintenance requirements that could affect eligibility for repairs.

When to Consider Purchasing a Warranty

The best time to shop for a home warranty is near the end of Habitat’s one-year warranty, before coverage lapses and while major systems are still relatively new. This allows homeowners to plan ahead for future maintenance costs and avoid gaps in coverage. Some homeowners also choose to purchase a warranty when appliances begin aging or if they want more predictable repair expenses as part of their long-term budgeting.

How to Shop for a Legitimate Home Warranty Company

• Research companies with strong customer reviews and a long track record of service.
• Confirm the company is reputable, financially stable, and clearly outlines coverage and exclusions.
• Compare multiple plans to understand differences in premiums, service fees, and coverage limits.
• Review the fine print for exclusions, claim denial conditions, and required maintenance responsibilities.
• Avoid companies that use high-pressure sales tactics or make unrealistic promises about “full coverage.”

What Homeowners Should Keep in Mind

A home warranty can be a helpful budgeting tool, but it is not a substitute for regular home maintenance or an emergency savings plan for repairs. Routine upkeep—such as changing filters, servicing HVAC systems, and addressing small issues early—remains the homeowner’s responsibility. Carefully evaluating coverage, costs, and expectations will help you decide whether a home warranty is the right fit for your household and long-term homeownership goals.