What determines the duration of a home warranty's coverage?

The duration of a home warranty's coverage is primarily determined by the terms outlined in the contract that offers the warranty. This means that when a buyer or homeowner chooses a warranty, the specifics about how long the protection lasts—including any conditions or limitations—are clearly stated in the written agreement. Home warranties can vary significantly in their duration based on the provider and the specific plan selected, making the contract a crucial document in defining those parameters.

While state regulations may set certain baseline requirements for warranties, they do not dictate specific terms like duration, which is a contractual matter. The age of the home and the type of repairs covered can influence the choice of warranty but do not inherently determine the length of coverage itself. Thus, the contract is the definitive source for understanding how long the warranty will be effective.