What Exactly Is a Mobile Home Warranty?

Manufactured homes are regaining popularity as contemporary, tiny houses. Previously known as 'mobile homes' until 1976, these prefabricated homes have evolved significantly. Now termed 'manufactured homes,' they feature top-of-the-line appliances, fixture upgrades, ceiling fans, and more. According to the MHARR, 8,971 new manufactured homes were produced in April 2024, marking a 34.37% increase from the 6,676 produced in April 2023, highlighting their rising demand and improved quality.

They have grown in popularity because of the many benefits they offer over a site-built home:

1). Building and maintaining manufactured houses is less than a conventional house

2). The offer a more casual, simpler lifestyle

3). They are energy-efficient, environmentally friendly

4). They have a metal chassis instead of the traditional foundation and have less maintenance

Appliances and System Still Have A Limited Lifespan

Nevertheless, even when a house is built with the intention of lasting the owner forever, the appliances and systems within it won't, whether it is a conventional built home or a manufactured house. The heating and cooling, the plumbing system, washer and dryer, electrical system, etc. will still have the possibility of breaking down or quit working altogether.

Fortunately, because we don't think about all of these things every minute of the day, there is manufactured home warranty plans that come with the purchase of a manufactured home just as there is with a conventional site-built home. They are better than the mobile home warranty plans in the 1970's and before. Because things happen, at any time, the plumbing system can leak or overflow, causing havoc in your daily routine. And just like a conventional built home, mobile home water damage can cause extensive damage if it is not caught in time and repaired or replaced as needed.

But not all modular home warranty plans have coverage for plumbing, even if you purchase the manufactured home brand new. It is important to take the time to read the warranty plan, even the fine print, and ask questions of any part you do not understand.

What Is A Manufactured Home Warranty?

A manufactured home warranty is a service agreement between the homeowner and a company that sells home warranty plans. A new home will come with a manufacturer warranty and the dealership may offer an extended warranty. But homeowners have the option of buying a separate warranty plan. There are many different ones, pricing can vary, and with that variance, the coverage will vary too.

With cheap home warranty plans, the coverage of repairs and replacements may not be as extensive as ones that cost more, like mobile home roof coverage may not be included. But keep in mind that the more expensive a home warranty plan doesn't guarantee it is the best coverage.

You can have the appliances and/or systems specifically added to your home warranty contract. If you purchase a new manufactured home, you can purchase an additional contract for anything that is not included in the original plan. Some items that you can have added to or purchase an additional contract for would be:

• Dishwasher
• Washing Machine & Dryer
• Heating & Cooling System
• Ductwork
• Refrigerator
• Electrical and Plumbing Systems

These are major components to your home, and when they break, it can be a stressful time financially and physically. Having a home warranty affords you peace of mind knowing that for just the cost of a co-pay or service call, usually $50 to $75, any item in your home warranty contract will be repaired or replaced. And while a home warranty plan may cost your $300 to $500 a year, in the long run, at those unexpected times, you'll be glad you have it.