Nov 3, 2026 · 3 min read · Northern Virginia
Should I Get a Home Warranty When I Buy in Virginia?
Should I get a home warranty when I buy a home in Virginia?
It depends on the home and your budget. A home warranty can help pay for repairs to things like the heating system, water heater and appliances, but every plan has limits, so read it before you decide.
The Mike Webb Team (Mike and Claudia Webb, RE/MAX Allegiance) helps homeowners in Arlington, Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC get their homes ready to sell and sold.
What is a home warranty in Virginia?
In Virginia, a home warranty is called a home service contract. State law describes it as a contract to repair, replace or maintain parts of a home when they fail from normal wear and tear or defects. The law also says it is not insurance. Source: Code of Virginia, Title 59.1, Chapter 33.1.
Who checks the companies that sell them?
Companies that sell home service contracts in Virginia must register with the state Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services, with some exceptions for very large companies. You can see the list of registered providers from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services before you buy a plan.
What should I read before I sign up?
Look for what is covered and what is not, the service fee you pay for each repair visit, any yearly or per-item limits, and how long you wait for a repair. Many plans leave out problems that started before the plan began, so ask how they handle that.
Does a home warranty replace a home inspection?
No. A home inspection tells you about the home's condition before you buy. A warranty only helps with some repairs after you move in. Read our Home Inspection Guide for Arlington, VA Buyers to see what an inspection covers.
Can the seller pay for it?
Sometimes. A buyer can ask the seller to pay for a home warranty as part of the offer or after the inspection. Whether that makes sense depends on the home and the rest of the deal, and we talk it through with you. See also What to Ask the Seller to Fix After Inspection.
FAQ
Is a home warranty the same as homeowners insurance?
No. Virginia law says a home service contract is not insurance. You still need homeowners insurance.
When should I decide?
Before you make your offer, if you want to ask the seller to pay for one.
Is a home warranty worth it on a newer home?
Newer systems may still be under the maker's warranty. Compare before you pay for a plan.
Call or text Claudia at 703-350-3884 or visit claudiawebb.com.
The Mike Webb Team, RE/MAX Allegiance. Arlington, Virginia. Equal Housing Opportunity.