Is a Mobile Home Warranty Worth It?

What is a mobile home warranty?

A mobile home warranty is a service agreement between homeowners and a home warranty company of their choice. It covers repairs or replacement costs of systems and appliances that are specifically covered under contract.

When a covered item breaks down from age or normal wear and tear, home warranty customers pay their provider’s pre-approved contractor a fairly small service fee instead of the full cost to repair a system or appliance.

What’s covered under a mobile home warranty?

Mobile home warranties cover items that are A) specifically written into the contract, B) have broken from age or normal wear and tear, and C) have been properly installed and maintained. As a mobile homeowner, you will have three levels of home warranty coverage to choose from: a systems-only plan, an appliances-only plan, and a combination plan. 

Systems plans only cover home systems, while appliance plans protect only appliances. Comprehensive combo plans cover a mix of systems and appliances. You can also customize your plan with optional add-on coverage for items like roof leaks or a septic system.

Depending on the level of coverage you choose, a home warranty plan can include large appliances—like a refrigerator, dishwasher, and washing machine—to major systems such as heating and cooling, ductwork, electrical, and plumbing.

Here are some other common items that are covered under a mobile home warranty:

How much does a mobile home warranty cost?

Mobile home warranties cost $25 to $50 per month. For more comprehensive coverage, you’ll probably pay closer to $50. You may be able to get a cheaper home warranty by choosing a custom plan and only paying for coverage on select items.

In addition to a monthly premium, you’ll be charged a service fee per claim that ranges between $75 and $125. Some companies like American Home Shield, will allow you to choose your own service fee, while companies like Select Home Warranty pre-determine the service fee for you. Fortunately, most contracts guarantee home repairs for at least 30 days, which means you won’t be charged for repeat visits if the problem persists.

Because mobile home warranty prices depend on the provider you go with, the amount of home warranty coverage you want, and where you live, we recommend getting quotes from a few different providers so you can compare pricing and select a plan that falls within your budget.

Benefits of a mobile home warranty

In addition to providing protection for your major home systems and appliances, a mobile home warranty offers the following benefits:

• Financial savings and discounts
• Unique perks like discounts at retailers and restaurants and savings on appliances
• Access to quick, professional repair services
• Additional security and peace of mind
• Higher resale value if you’re selling your home

Who needs a mobile or manufactured home warranty?

Any owner of a manufactured or mobile home should consider a mobile home warranty. Although optional, you’ll save money and gain peace of mind. Newly manufactured homes could be covered under a builder’s or manufacturer’s warranty for one to two years, but if your home is older than that, we recommend signing up for a home protection plan.

Our Conclusion

The bottom line is that we, at House Method, believe it’s a good idea to get a home warranty on top of your homeowners insurance. Appliances and systems will inevitably break over time and it’s more likely these items will break due to normal wear and tear than be stolen or damaged by a natural disaster.

We’re a fan of wise investments at House Method, which is why we suggest shopping around for a mobile home warranty before you buy. Consider getting quotes from all three providers listed in this article so you can compare pricing and price match with the lowest offer you receive.