Do Home Warranties Transfer to Buyers? Here’s the Truth

Transferring Warranties and Guarantees to a New Homeowner: What Every Buyer and Seller Should Know

When purchasing a home, the excitement of moving into a new space is often matched by a flood of logistical questions: Is the roof in good shape? Are the appliances covered by a warranty? Can the HVAC system’s (Heating and Cooling) service guarantee transfer to me as the new owner?

While many buyers and sellers focus on inspections, appraisals, and closing costs, transferring warranties and guarantees is a crucial yet often overlooked part of a home sale. Whether you’re buying a new build or a previously owned property, understanding how warranties and guarantees work—and ensuring they’re transferred properly—can save you money and stress down the line.

What Are Home Warranties and Guarantees?

Warranties and guarantees both offer protection, but they operate differently:

• • A warranty is a written promise from a manufacturer, builder, or third-party provider to repair or replace a product or system that fails due to defects or workmanship within a set period of time.
  • A guarantee is often a broader assurance of satisfaction and may not include specific repair terms, but still protects the buyer to some degree, especially when offered by builders or contractors.

✅ Kentucky Tom Pro Tip: Examples of items that may be covered by warranties include:

• • • Appliances (refrigerators, ovens, washers, dryers)
    • Roofing materials
    • Windows and doors
    • HVAC systems
    • Plumbing and electrical work
    • Foundation and structural components (especially in new builds)

In many cases, these warranties are transferable—but only if certain steps are taken.

 

Why Transfer Warranties?

Transferring warranties and guarantees provides peace of mind to buyers and protects them from unexpected repair or replacement costs. For sellers, offering transferable warranties can enhance the appeal of the home and may even justify a higher asking price.

Transferring warranties ensures:

• • You don’t have to pay out-of-pocket for repairs a warranty would cover.
  • You maintain the product or system’s validity with the manufacturer.
  • You avoid disputes with service providers who may refuse service without proper documentation.

 

Types of Transferable Warranties

Let’s break down common categories of warranties that may be transferable during a home sale:

1. Builder’s Warranty (New Construction)

If you’re buying a newly built home, the builder typically includes a warranty that covers major systems, appliances, and structural elements for a certain number of years. Common timeframes are:

• • 1 year for labor and materials
  • 2 years for HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems
  • 10 years for major structural elements

Most builders allow this warranty to transfer to the first or second owner—sometimes automatically, sometimes with a formal request and fee.

2. Manufacturer Warranties

Appliances, windows, roofing shingles, and other home components often come with manufacturer warranties. These may or may not transfer to the new homeowner. You’ll need to:

• • Check the product documentation for transfer terms
  • Register the warranty in your name (some manufacturers require registration within a specific time period)
  • Pay a transfer fee if applicable

3. Home Warranty Plans (Third-Party)

Unlike manufacturer warranties, a home warranty plan is usually a service agreement purchased by the seller or buyer that covers repair and replacement of home systems for a set term (often one year). These can typically be transferred at or after closing.

If you’re a buyer, request a copy of the policy and ask the company to reissue it in your name.

4. Roofing and Exterior Warranties

Roofs may come with two types of warranties: one from the manufacturer of the shingles or tiles, and one from the contractor who installed them. Both can sometimes be transferred. However, many roofing warranties require:

• • The new owner to submit a transfer form within 30-60 days of the home sale
  • A transfer fee
  • Proof of ongoing maintenance

5. Window and Door Warranties

These may be limited lifetime warranties and can transfer under specific terms. For instance, some brands only allow one transfer, or require registration and documentation from both parties.

 

How to Transfer Warranties: Step-by-Step

If you’re a seller, here’s how to prepare:

• Gather Documentation: Collect receipts, warranty certificates, service records, and instruction manuals.
• Contact Providers: Call or email manufacturers, builders, and home warranty companies to confirm if the warranty is transferable and what’s required.
• Provide Disclosure: Include a list of transferable warranties in your seller’s disclosure package.
• Facilitate the Transfer: Provide forms or links to buyers for easy transfer after closing.

If you’re a buyer, take these steps:

• Request a Warranty Inventory: Ask the seller or their agent for a list of items covered by warranties and whether they’re transferable.
• Check Time Limits: Many warranties require the new owner to initiate transfer within 30 to 90 days of closing.
• Register Products: Fill out and submit any transfer forms, and keep copies for your records.
• Pay Fees If Needed: Be prepared for small transfer fees—typically $25 to $100.
• Ask Your Agent for Help: A knowledgeable real estate agent can assist in tracking and transferring warranties during the transaction.

 

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Assuming automatic transfer: Many warranties don’t transfer without action.
• Letting deadlines pass: Missing the transfer window can void your warranty.
• Not registering in your name: If your name isn’t attached to the warranty, you may not be eligible for service.
• Losing documentation: Service providers typically require proof of purchase and warranty transfer.

For Your Consideration

Transferring warranties and guarantees isn’t the most glamorous part of buying or selling a home—but it can be one of the most financially important. A little effort upfront can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars in repair costs.

Whether you’re a seller looking to make your home more attractive to buyers or a buyer hoping to protect your new investment, take the time to understand which warranties apply, what’s required to transfer them, and when you need to act.

✅ Kentucky Tom Pro Tip:

Keep all warranty info together in a dedicated folder—digital or physical—so it’s easy to access when the air conditioner stops working or the dishwasher springs a leak.

In the world of homeownership, having a valid warranty is like having a safety net. Just make sure it’s in your name.

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