Bought a Brand-New Home in Frisco, TX? Here’s Why a Home Warranty Could Be a Total Lifesaver
You’ve finally moved into your brand-new home in Frisco, TX. Everything smells fresh, the paint is flawless, and the appliances are gleaming. It is tempting to believe nothing could go wrong, but the reality is that even brand-new homes aren’t immune to unexpected issues. From plumbing hiccups to HVAC malfunctions, problems can and do pop up when you least expect them. This is where a home warranty can be a game-changer.
Building warranties in Texas are standard; understanding how they work and when to use them is important if you want to keep your investment protected. Whether you are a first-time buyer or upgrading to a dream build, a well-timed home warranty strategy can save you time, stress, and thousands of dollars.
What is the Deal with Texas Builder Warranties?
In Texas, builders are legally required to offer a “1-2-10” warranty on new homes, meaning one year of coverage on workmanship and materials, two years on systems, and ten years for structural issues. On paper, this might sound like a good safety net. However, there is a catch: these types of warranties don’t last forever, and some problems don’t show up until right before coverage ends. This is why knowing how and when to use your warranty is just as important as having it. The weather, soil, and rapid development pace in Frisco can cause wear and tear. If you wait too long, it is likely you will end up footing the bill for problems that should have been covered from the get-go.
Don’t Wait–Why an 11-Month Inspection Can Save the Day
One of the best-kept secrets in Frisco, TX, is the 11-month warranty inspection. Most builders will offer a one-year warranty on basic workmanship, and major issues start to surface right around the 9 to 11-month mark. This is when it pays to bring in a professional inspector who knows what to look for. For example, windows that have been improperly sealed, early cracks in the foundation, and HVAC calibration issues may not be obvious to the average homeowner. Inviting an inspector to document these before the builder warranty expires will put pressure on the builder to make repairs while you are still covered. Otherwise, those repairs may fall on you and your wallet.
The Frisco Factor: Soil, Shifts, and Why Structural Coverage Matters
Let’s talk about something that is very specific to Frisco and much of North Texas–the soil. This region is known for clay-heavy soil that expands and contracts with moisture. That movement can cause cracks in the foundation, uneven floors, and stuck doors, even in newly built homes. Structural issues caused by soil movement can be expensive to fix and aren’t always obvious right away. This is why the 10-year structure warranty on a new build is so important to have. If you notice subtle shifting or hairline cracks, don’t wait to report them, as your builder may be responsible for the fix.
Pro Tips for Making the Most of Your Home Warranty
Here are some quick, expert-backed tips that homeowners in Frisco should keep in mind when it comes to home warranties:
- Schedule a professional inspection between months 9 and 11: This will give you time to report issues while you’re still under builder coverage.
- Keep a running list of problems: Don’t brush off things like squeaky floors, flickering lights, or small drywall cracks; they can be signs of bigger issues.
- Document everything: Take photos and keep notes of what’s been reported and when.
- Follow builder maintenance guidelines: Some warranties can be voided if proper maintenance isn’t performed.
- Ask if the structural warranty is transferable: If you are planning on selling your home before year 10, this can be a strong selling point.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Buy the Home, Protect It
In a booming market like Frisco, TX, a new construction home is a smart investment, but only if you take steps to protect it. A home warranty might not feel urgent when everything’s shiny and new, but it can quickly become essential if something goes wrong. By knowing what’s covered, acting early, and using your warranty strategically, you can keep your home in top shape without draining your savings. Trust the real estate professionals at Tonya Peek Real Estate to guide you in finding and settling down in the home of your dreams in the many beautiful new construction Frisco, TX neighborhoods today.