How Many Service Calls Allowed in Warranty: A Homeowner’s Guide

You notice a drip under the kitchen sink, or your furnace starts making a strange noise. You remember you have a home warranty that came with the house, so you file a claim. But after the technician leaves, the same problem comes back a month later. Now you’re wondering: how many service calls allowed in warranty before the coverage runs out, or before you have to pay for a fix yourself?

This situation is more common than most homeowners think. Many warranty contracts limit the number of service calls for a single appliance or system, and they often exclude certain repairs. If you ignore the fine print, you could end up with a broken system and no coverage. Worse, delaying a proper repair can lead to water damage, mold, or expensive emergency service.

Understanding exactly how many service calls allowed in warranty will help you plan your repairs wisely, protect your home, and avoid surprise bills. If you already feel unsure about your current warranty terms, you’re not alone,and there are better options available.

Understanding How Many Service Calls Allowed in Warranty

A typical home warranty covers specific appliances and systems for a set period, usually one year. Most contracts limit the number of service calls per item to one or two per year. For example, if your refrigerator breaks down twice, the warranty might cover the first visit but not the second, unless you pay an additional fee.

These limits exist because warranty companies want to minimize their costs. They assume most repairs will be minor. But if you have an older home, a faulty installation, or a systemic issue, one or two calls may not be enough. In our guide on 2-10 Home Warranty Coverage Alternatives You Can Rely On, we explain how fixed-call policies can leave homeowners with gaps in protection.

Homes with aging HVAC systems, water heaters, or major appliances are most affected. If you live in an older house or a region with extreme weather, you may need more than the standard allowance. That’s why it’s critical to read your contract and know the exact terms before you need a repair.

Why This Matters for Your Home

When you hit the limit on service calls, you face a choice: pay out of pocket for another repair or let the problem get worse. Many homeowners choose to delay, hoping the issue will resolve itself. That rarely ends well.

A small leak ignored can rot your subfloor and cost thousands to replace. An inefficient furnace that keeps tripping can drive up your energy bills and, in extreme cases, become a fire hazard. Safety and property protection should always come first.

Your home is your biggest asset. Every time you push off a needed repair, you risk lowering its value and creating bigger problems later. Understanding how many service calls allowed in warranty helps you budget for professional help before small issues become major emergencies.

If you notice signs of this issue in your home, it may help to speak with a qualified contractor. Request a free quote or call to explore your repair or remodeling options.

Common Problems Homeowners Experience

Most homeowners discover the limits of their warranty the hard way. They call for a repair, the technician patches things up, but the same symptom returns. The warranty company then denies the second claim because it considers the problem “recurring” or “pre-existing.”

Another frequent issue is that warranty companies classify problems as multiple separate failures. For instance, if your AC stops cooling and later makes a grinding noise, the company might count them as two calls, even though they stem from the same root cause. This eats up your allowed visits quickly.

Here are common problems homeowners face with warranty service call limits:

• Recurring appliance breakdowns (refrigerator, dishwasher, oven)
• HVAC system failing in multiple ways during one season
• Water heater leaks that require multiple diagnostic visits
• Plumbing issues that appear minor but need several attempts to fix
• Electrical problems tied to an aging panel or wiring
• Structural concerns like minor foundation cracks that worsen over time

How Professionals Solve the Problem

Experienced contractors don’t just patch the symptom,they diagnose the underlying cause. When you hire a professional through a trusted platform like Repairmen, you get a licensed technician who takes the time to find out why something keeps breaking. This reduces the need for repeat calls.

A typical professional repair process looks like this:

1. Inspection: The contractor examines the appliance or system thoroughly, checking for damage, wear, and environmental factors.
2. Diagnosis: They identify the root cause, not just the visible symptom.
3. Estimate: You receive a clear, itemized quote before any work begins.
4. Repair or Replacement: The professional fixes the issue using quality parts and proper techniques.
5. Follow-up: Many contractors offer a labor warranty, giving you peace of mind if the problem returns.

Professional work is safer and more reliable than DIY fixes because it follows building codes and manufacturer specifications. You also get documentation that can help with insurance or future warranty claims. If you’re comparing options, check out our Homeowner’s Warranty Guide for Hawaii Properties for region-specific advice.

A professional inspection can reveal hidden issues before they become expensive repairs. Compare contractor quotes here or call to discuss your project.

Warning Signs You Should Not Ignore

Early detection is your best defense against exceeding your warranty’s service call limit. If you catch a problem early, you can often fix it within the allowed number of visits. Waiting until the system fails completely usually means more calls and more money.

Pay attention to these warning signs in your home:

• Unusual noises from major appliances (grinding, clicking, humming)
• Fluctuating temperatures from your HVAC system
• Water stains or dampness around plumbing fixtures
• Frequent tripping of circuit breakers
• Higher-than-normal utility bills without a change in usage
• Visible rust, corrosion, or cracks on appliance surfaces

If you notice any of these signs, act quickly. A single service call for an inspection can save you from needing multiple calls later. Knowing how many service calls allowed in warranty helps you decide whether to use your coverage now or save it for a bigger emergency.

What Affects the Cost of Repairs or Installation

Even with warranty coverage, you’ll often pay a service fee per visit,usually between $75 and $125. If you exceed the allowed number of calls, the full cost of the repair falls on you. That’s why understanding your contract is essential for budgeting.

Several factors influence the total cost of a repair or replacement:

• Size of the project: A simple part replacement costs less than a full system overhaul.
• Materials needed: OEM parts are more expensive than generic ones but last longer.
• Labor requirements: Complex jobs require more time and specialized skills.
• Accessibility: Appliances in tight spaces or on upper floors increase labor time.
• Age of the home: Older homes may have outdated systems that are harder to repair.

Costs can vary depending on the condition of your home. The best way to know the price is to get a personalized estimate. Request free quotes from contractors or call today.

How to Choose the Right Contractor

Not all contractors are equal. Choosing the wrong one can waste your warranty calls and leave you with shoddy work. A reliable professional will respect your coverage limits and help you fix the issue efficiently.

Here are tips for selecting a contractor you can trust:

• Check licenses and insurance: Verify that the contractor is licensed in your state and carries liability insurance.
• Read customer reviews: Look for recent feedback on platforms like Repairmen to see real experiences.
• Ask for detailed estimates: A good contractor explains every line item so you know what you’re paying for.
• Compare multiple quotes: Get at least three estimates to understand the market rate for your repair.
• Confirm experience with similar projects: Ask how many times they’ve fixed the exact appliance or system you need help with.

Taking these steps ensures you get value for your warranty calls and avoid wasting them on incomplete repairs. For more on navigating warranty coverage, read our guide on AHS Home Warranty vs Repairmen: Homeowners Are Making the Switch.

Long-Term Benefits of Professional Work

Investing in professional repairs pays off over time. A well-done fix lasts longer, performs better, and reduces the likelihood of repeat failures. That means fewer service calls overall, which helps you stay within your warranty limits.

Professional work also improves energy efficiency. A properly sealed refrigerator or a correctly tuned furnace uses less electricity and gas, lowering your monthly bills. And when you decide to sell your home, documented professional repairs add to your property’s value.

Beyond cost savings, professional repairs give you peace of mind. You know the job was done right, with quality materials and proper techniques. That’s worth far more than the money you might save by going the DIY route or using an unlicensed handyman.

How many service calls are typically allowed in a home warranty?

Most standard home warranty contracts allow one to two service calls per covered appliance or system per year. Some plans offer unlimited calls for a higher premium. Always check your specific contract because limits vary by company and plan level.

What happens if I exceed the allowed number of service calls?

If you exceed the limit, the warranty company will deny coverage for additional repairs on that item. You will have to pay the full cost of any further service visits or repairs out of pocket.

Can I request a different technician if the first one didn’t fix the problem?

Yes, you can often request a different technician if you are unsatisfied with the first visit. However, the warranty company may count the second visit as a separate service call against your allowance, so check your policy first.

Does a diagnostic visit count as a service call?

In most cases, yes. Any visit by a technician,even just to inspect and diagnose,counts as one service call under your warranty. That’s why it’s important to combine diagnosis and repair whenever possible.

Are there any warranties with unlimited service calls?

Some premium home warranty plans offer unlimited service calls for an additional monthly fee. These plans are less common and usually cost significantly more. Compare the cost of unlimited calls against the price of paying for occasional repairs out of pocket.

Can I transfer my home warranty to a new owner if I sell my house?

Many home warranties are transferable to a new homeowner, often for a small fee. Transferring the warranty can be a selling point, but the new owner will inherit the same service call limits.

Does a home warranty cover pre-existing conditions?

No, home warranties typically do not cover pre-existing conditions,problems that existed before the policy started. If a technician discovers a pre-existing issue, your claim may be denied, and that visit will still count toward your service call limit.

Your home deserves reliable protection, and understanding your warranty terms is the first step. If you’re unsure about your coverage or want to explore more flexible options, comparing contractor quotes is a smart move. Get free estimates from trusted professionals in your area and take control of your home’s maintenance today.