Home Warranty Scam Warning Signs

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If you've received an aggressive call, robocall, or "final notice" letter about a home warranty you don't remember signing up for, you're not alone. This is a plain-English guide to telling a scam apart from a real home warranty offer — and how to safely start coverage if you decide you want it.

5 warning signs of a home warranty scam

  1. Urgency. Phrases like "final notice," "your warranty is about to expire," or "act in 24 hours" are designed to push you into a decision.
  2. They already claim to know you have a warranty. A real provider has your account on file. A scam usually starts with a guess and asks you to confirm details.
  3. They ask for sensitive information up front. Social Security number, full bank account number, warranty deed, or a credit card just to "verify" — all red flags.
  4. They refuse to send a written quote. Legitimate companies are happy to email a quote you can compare on your own time.
  5. The phone number or website doesn't match the company name they say. Search the number on its own page (for example, our phone number lookup) and the company's official website before you do anything.

What a real home warranty looks like

  • Plans cover repair or replacement of major home systems and appliances that break from normal wear and tear (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, water heater, refrigerator, dishwasher, oven, washer, dryer).
  • Pricing is published. You can start a home warranty for $99 today with no home inspection required.
  • You get a written contract showing exactly what's covered, the service-call fee, and the cancellation/refund window.
  • You don't have to give Social Security numbers, full bank account numbers, or warranty deeds.

What to do if you think you've been targeted

  1. Hang up or stop replying — you don't have to engage.
  2. Add your number to the National Do Not Call Registry: donotcall.gov.
  3. Report the call or letter to the FTC: reportfraud.ftc.gov.
  4. If you already shared payment info, call your bank/credit card and dispute any charges.
  5. If you still want home warranty coverage, get a written quote and start online for $99.

Frequently asked questions

Are all home warranty calls scams?

No. Some home warranty marketing calls and letters come from real companies. The issue is that scams imitate the same urgency and "final notice" wording, which makes it hard to tell them apart. The safest approach is to never act on a phone call alone — get a written quote, compare it on your own time, and start coverage online when you're ready.

Can I get a real home warranty without talking to anyone on the phone?

Yes. You can start a real home warranty today for $99 with no inspection required. Coverage protects HVAC, plumbing, electrical, water heater, and major appliances against breakdown from normal wear and tear.

Does the government send home warranty notices?

No. The federal and state governments do not send home warranty notices. Any letter that looks like a government document but is selling a warranty is marketing — read the small print.

How much should a home warranty cost?

Plans typically range from about $300 to $600 per year depending on coverage level. You can start a home warranty for $99 with no inspection. Always confirm the per-item coverage cap and service-call fee in writing.

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