These two terms get confused often, but they cover very different things. Understanding the difference can save you from a costly surprise after you move in.
Homeowners Insurance
Homeowners insurance is required by your lender and protects your home’s structure and belongings against events like fire, storms, and theft. In Florida, it typically also involves separate flood and windstorm coverage depending on your location.
Home Warranty
A home warranty is optional and covers the repair or replacement of major systems and appliances, like your HVAC, water heater, or kitchen appliances, when they break down from normal wear and tear.
Do You Need Both?
- Homeowners insurance: required and essential, non-negotiable
- Home warranty: optional, but often worth it for older homes or homes with aging systems
Sellers will sometimes include a home warranty as part of the deal, which is worth asking about during negotiations. Andrea Griffith can help you figure out whether requesting one makes sense for the specific home you’re buying. Call or text 423-667-8610 with any questions.