Frontdoor Inc

Previous wording

In addition to the other information contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and the exhibits hereto, you should carefully consider the following risk factors in evaluating our business. Our business, financial condition or results of operations could be materially adversely affected by any of these risks. The selected risks described below, however, are not the only risks we face. Additional risks and uncertainties, not currently known to us or those we currently view to be immaterial may also materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. The risk factors generally have been separated into three groups: risks related to our business, risks related to our common stock and risks related to our significant indebtedness.

Current wording

In addition to the other information contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and the exhibits hereto, you should carefully consider the following risk factors in evaluating our business. Our business, financial condition or results of operations could be materially adversely affected by any of these risks. The selected risks described below, however, are not the only risks we face. Additional risks and uncertainties, not currently known to us or those we currently view to be immaterial may also materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. The risk factors generally have been separated into four groups: risks related to our business, risks related to the 2-10 HBW Acquisition, risks related to our common stock and risks related to our significant indebtedness.

Previous wording

Changing macro-economic conditions, including inflation, global supply chain challenges and rising interest rates, especially as they may affect existing home sales or consumer sentiment or unemployment, may adversely impact our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

Changing macroeconomic conditions, including inflation, tariffs, global supply chain challenges and changing interest rates, especially as they may affect existing or new home sales, consumer confidence, labor availability or our costs, may adversely impact our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

Our results of operations are dependent upon consumer spending. Changes in general economic conditions and consumer confidence, particularly in our largest markets—California, Florida and Texas—could adversely affect the demand for our services. Consumer spending and confidence tend to decline during times of declining economic conditions. Unfavorable changes in economic conditions, which are typically beyond our control, including without limitation, as a result of weak home sales, higher home foreclosures, inflation, slowing growth, rising interest rates, recession, changes in the political climate, war (including, but not limited to, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine and in the Middle East), supply chain or labor market disruptions, banking or financial market disruptions, declining consumer confidence, rising unemployment rates, epidemic disease or other adverse changes, could adversely affect consumer spending levels, reduce demand for our services and adversely impact our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

Our results of operations are dependent upon consumer spending. Changes in general economic conditions and consumer confidence, particularly in our largest regions—California, Florida and Texas—could adversely affect the demand for our services. Consumer spending and confidence tend to decline during times of declining economic conditions. Unfavorable changes in economic conditions, which are typically beyond our control, including without limitation, as a result of weak existing or new home sales, higher home foreclosures, inflation, tariff policies, restriction on imports of components and raw materials applicable to our business, slowing growth, rising interest rates, recession, changes in the political climate, international conflict, supply chain or labor market disruptions, banking or financial market disruptions, declining consumer confidence, rising unemployment rates, pandemics or other global health crises or other adverse changes, could adversely affect consumer spending levels, our costs, reduce demand for our services and adversely impact our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

With respect to interest rates, in particular, the Federal Reserve increased interest rates eleven times in 2022 and 2023 in response to increasing inflation. The rise in interest rates has caused buyer apprehension and affordability concerns, resulting in a decrease in home sales in 2022 and 2023 and has negatively impacted our real estate channel. Although the Federal Reserve has indicated that it may lower interest rates in 2024, the trajectory of current rates remains uncertain. To the extent interest rates remain elevated, such elevated interest rates could continue to negatively affect mortgage rates and negatively impact the real estate channel.

Current wording

While the Federal Reserve decreased interest rates in September, November and December of 2024, it held interest rates unchanged in January 2025. The sustained level of higher interest rates has caused buyer apprehension and affordability concerns, resulting in a decrease in home sales in 2022, 2023 and 2024 and has negatively impacted our business. Although the Federal Reserve lowered interest rates in 2024, it has paused this approach to-date in 2025, and the trajectory of current rates remains uncertain. Changing interest rates could continue to affect mortgage rates and negatively impact our business.

Previous wording

We may not be able to fully implement our business strategies or realize, in whole or in part within the expected time frames, the anticipated benefits of various new business, growth or other initiatives. Our business strategies and initiatives, including increasing our home warranty penetration, delivering superior customer experience, growing our supplier network of independent contractors, continuing digital innovation, leveraging dynamic pricing, providing customers access to our high-quality, qualified network of contractors for on-demand home services and pursuing selective acquisitions, are subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control.

Current wording

We may not be able to fully implement our business strategies or realize, in whole or in part within the expected time frames, the anticipated benefits of various new business, growth or other initiatives, including the expected benefits of the 2-10 HBW Acquisition. Our business strategies and initiatives, including increasing and retaining our home warranty customers, delivering superior customer experience, growing our supplier network of independent contractors, leveraging dynamic pricing, expanding our non-warranty revenue, integrating and growing the 2-10 HBW business, leveraging technology for support of our business strategies and pursuing selective acquisitions, including those that complement our existing business and provide cross-selling opportunities for home warranties and our non-warranty services, are subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control. For example, as part of our non-warranty services, we have leveraged our nationwide network of independent contractors in our partnership with Moen to offer installation of their smart water shut-off valve, including where supported by home insurers. The success of this opportunity depends in part on Moen’s marketing of their product and support of this program by home insurers. Operational challenges, delays in product availability, or changes in Moen’s strategic direction, or changes in home insurers' support for installation of water shut-off valves, all of which are beyond our control, could result in delays in achieving our anticipated growth objectives and adversely affect our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

In addition, our financial performance is affected by changes in the services and products we offer to customers. We may incur significant costs to implement our strategies, service and product offerings, which may not succeed in increasing revenue, growing our customer base or growing profitability. For example, in 2023, our business underwent significant transformation as we undertook rebranding initiatives in connection with the launch of our Frontdoor app. We cannot provide any assurance that these rebranding initiatives will be effective. An unsuccessful execution of strategies, including the rollout of new, or the adjustment of any existing, services or products or sales and marketing plans, could cause us to reevaluate or change our business strategies and could have a material adverse impact on our reputation, business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

In addition, our financial performance is affected by changes in the services and products we offer to customers. We may incur significant costs to implement our strategies, service and product offerings, which may not succeed in increasing revenue, growing our customer base or growing profitability. For example, in 2024, we incurred significant expense when we relaunched the American Home Shield brand through an updated look and feel. Similarly, in 2023, we launched the Frontdoor app, which required a substantial marketing investment. We cannot provide any assurance that these rebranding initiatives will be effective. An unsuccessful execution of strategies, including the rollout of new, or the adjustment of any existing, services or products or sales and marketing plans, could cause us to reevaluate or change our business strategies and could have a material adverse impact on our reputation, business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

Marketing efforts to increase sales through our real estate and direct-to-consumer channels may not be successful or cost-effective.

Current wording

Marketing efforts to increase sales through our real estate and DTC channels may not be successful or cost-effective.

Previous wording

With respect to our marketing efforts, we may also include certain discounts or other promotional rates in order to attract and retain customers. These efforts may require increasing amounts or be offered at increasing frequency over time. Certain factors including the nature and type of our services offered, potential and existing customers’ perception of the value of our services, and other macroeconomic factors like general economic conditions and consumer sentiment may impact our efforts. These efforts may not be successful or cost-effective over time.

Current wording

With respect to our marketing efforts, we may also include certain discounts or other promotional rates in order to attract and retain customers. These efforts may require increasing amounts or be offered at increasing frequency over time. Certain factors including the nature and type of our services offered, potential and existing customers’ perception of the value of our services, and other macroeconomic factors like general economic conditions and consumer sentiment may impact our efforts. These efforts may not be successful or cost-effective or remain effective over time.

Previous wording

We depend on our first-year real estate and direct-to-consumer acquisition channels for a significant percentage of our sales.

Current wording

We depend on our first-year DTC acquisition and real estate channels for a significant percentage of our sales.

Previous wording

Consumer demand for services purchased through our first-year DTC channel can fluctuate and, as such, is subject to changes in macro-economic conditions, including interest rates and inflation, as well as consumer sentiment about the value of home warranties and our reputation as a home warranty provider. Consumer demand may also be significantly influenced by the success of marketing and promotions by us or by our competitors. If we are unsuccessful in attracting consumers to our home warranties, we could experience a material adverse impact to our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

Consumer demand for services purchased through our first-year DTC channel can fluctuate and, as such, is subject to changes in macroeconomic conditions, including interest rates and inflation, as well as consumer sentiment about the value of home warranties and our reputation as a home warranty provider. Consumer demand may also be significantly influenced by the success of marketing and promotions by us or by our competitors. If we are unsuccessful in attracting consumers to our home warranties, we could experience a material adverse impact to our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

A significant percentage of our sales are generated through our first-year real estate customer and direct-to-consumer acquisition channels, which feed our renewal channel. In our real estate channel, our strategic relationships with top real estate brokers and agents are important to our business because they provide marketing and information services that are useful to our real estate customer acquisition channel. These brokers and agents are independent parties that we do not control, and we cannot guarantee that our strategic partnership arrangements with them will continue at current levels or at all. An inability to maintain these relationships could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

A significant percentage of our sales are generated through our first-year real estate customer and DTC home warranty acquisition channels, which feed our renewal channel. In our real estate channel, our strategic relationships with top real estate brokers and agents are important to our business because they provide marketing and information services that are useful to our real estate customer acquisition channel. These brokers and agents are independent parties that we do not control, and we cannot guarantee that our strategic partnership arrangements with them will continue at current levels or at all. An inability to maintain these relationships could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

Demand for our services is affected by existing home sales, as our services are frequently purchased in connection with real estate transactions. As a result, in periods when home sales are fast-moving, declining or of low inventory levels, demand for our services may be adversely impacted. In addition, changes in the real estate market could also affect the demand for our services if a reduced amount of home buyers elect not to purchase our services, which could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Among others, the number of real estate transactions in which our services are purchased could also decrease in the following situations:

Current wording

Demand for our home warranty services is affected by existing home sales, as our services are frequently purchased in connection with real estate transactions. As a result, in periods when home sales are fast-moving, declining or of low inventory levels, demand for our services may be adversely impacted. In addition, changes in the real estate market could also affect the demand for our services if a reduced number of home buyers elect not to purchase our services, which could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Among others, the number of real estate transactions in which our services are purchased could also decrease in the following situations:

Previous wording

· when mortgage interest rates are high or rise, as they did in 2022 and 2023;

Current wording

when mortgage interest rates are high or rise, as they did in recent periods;

Previous wording

· when the availability of credit, including commercial and residential mortgage funding, is limited;

Current wording

when the availability of credit, including commercial and residential mortgage funding, is limited; or

Previous wording

Our third and largest sales channel is our renewal channel. Sales in this channel are dependent upon the flow of sales from our first-year real estate and DTC channels, as well as our customers’ perceptions of the value of our home warranties, and accordingly, their willingness to renew their plans. Any decrease in sales from period to period in our real estate and DTC channels may have a negative impact on future growth opportunities in our renewal channel. Whether existing customers choose to renew their home warranties is driven by both external factors such as macroeconomic conditions our reputation and actions of our competitors, as well as internal factors such as their experience with our home warranties, including whether they have used their home warranties and their satisfaction with any services we provided, and how they perceive the value of our home warranties in light of the cost of a renewal.

Current wording

Our third and largest home warranty sales channel is our renewal channel. Sales in this channel are dependent upon the flow of sales from our first-year real estate and DTC channels, as well as our customers’ perceptions of the value of our home warranties, and accordingly, their willingness to renew their plans. Any decrease in sales from period to period in our real estate and DTC channels may have a negative impact on future growth opportunities in our renewal channel. Whether existing customers choose to renew their home warranties is driven by both external factors such as macroeconomic conditions our reputation and actions of our competitors, as well as internal factors such as their experience with our home warranties, including whether they have used their home warranties and their satisfaction with any services we provided, and how they perceive the value of our home warranties in light of the cost of a renewal.

Previous wording

We operate in a highly competitive industry. Changes in the sources and intensity of competition in the industry in which we operate may impact the demand for our services and may also result in additional pricing pressure. Heightened industry competition could adversely affect our business operations by impacting our contractor selection and purchasing power for parts, appliances and home systems. Regional and local competitors operating in a limited geographic area may have lower labor, employee benefits and overhead costs than us. The principal measures of competition in our business include customer service, brand awareness and reputation, fairness of contract terms, including contract price and coverage scope, contractor network and quality, and speed of service. We may be unable to compete successfully against current or future competitors, and the competitive pressures that we face may result in reduced demand for our services, reduced pricing and other adverse impacts to our reputation, business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

We operate in a highly competitive industry. Changes in the sources and intensity of competition in the industry in which we operate may impact the demand for our services and may also result in additional pricing pressure. Heightened industry competition could adversely affect our business operations by impacting our contractor selection and purchasing power for parts, appliances and home systems. Regional and local competitors operating in a limited geographic area may have lower labor, employee benefits and overhead costs than us. The principal measures of competition in our business include customer service, brand awareness and reputation, fairness of contract terms, including contract price and coverage scope, contractor network and quality, technical expertise and speed of service. We may be unable to compete successfully against current or future competitors, and the competitive pressures that we face may result in reduced demand for our services, reduced pricing and other adverse impacts to our reputation, business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

Our ability to conduct our operations is in part impacted by reliance on a network of third-party contractors. Our future success and financial performance depend substantially on our ability to attract and retain qualified third-party contractors, and their availability, and ensure third-party contractor compliance with our policies, standards and performance expectations. However, these third-party contractors are independent parties that we do not control, and who own, operate and oversee the daily operations of their individual businesses. If third-party contractors do not successfully operate their businesses in a manner consistent with required laws, standards and regulations, we could be subject to claims from regulators or legal claims for the actions or omissions of such third-party contractors. In addition, our relationship with our third-party contractors could become strained (including resulting in litigation) as we impose new standards or assert more rigorous enforcement practices of our existing standards and performance expectations. When a contractor relationship is terminated, there is a risk that we may not be able to enter into a similar agreement with an alternate contractor in a timely manner or on favorable terms. We could incur costs to transition to other contractors, and these costs could materially adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows. We could also fail to provide service to our customers if we lose contractors that we cannot replace in a timely manner, which could lead to customer complaints and possible claims and litigation. In addition, our third-party contractors interact directly with our customers, and if our third-party contractors do not provide satisfactory services, our retention rate, reputation and business may be adversely affected. In addition, these potential impacts may be enhanced upon termination of a relationship with a preferred contractor, as approximately 83 percent of our service requests were completed by our preferred contractor network in 2023.

Current wording

Our ability to conduct our operations is in part impacted by reliance on a network of third-party contractors. Our future success and financial performance depend substantially on our ability to attract and retain qualified third-party contractors, and their availability, and ensure third-party contractor compliance with our policies, standards and performance expectations. However, these third-party contractors are independent parties that we do not control, and who own, operate and oversee the daily operations of their individual businesses. If third-party contractors do not successfully operate their businesses in a manner consistent with required laws, standards and regulations, we could be subject to claims from regulators or legal claims for the actions or omissions of such third-party contractors. In addition, our relationship with our third-party contractors could become strained (including resulting in litigation) as we impose new standards or assert more rigorous enforcement practices of our existing standards and performance expectations. When a contractor relationship is terminated, there is a risk that we may not be able to enter into a similar agreement with an alternate contractor in a timely manner or on favorable terms. We could incur costs to transition to other contractors, and these costs could materially adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows. We could also fail to provide service to our customers if we lose contractors that we cannot replace in a timely manner, which could lead to customer complaints and possible claims and litigation. In addition, our third-party contractors interact directly with our customers, and if our third-party contractors do not provide satisfactory services, our retention rate, reputation and business may be adversely affected. In addition, these potential impacts may be exacerbated upon termination of a relationship with a preferred contractor, as approximately 85 percent of our home warranty service requests were completed by our preferred contractor network in 2024.

Previous wording

Our financial performance may be adversely affected by increases in the level of our operating expenses, such as refrigerants, appliances, equipment, parts, raw materials, wages and salaries, employee benefits, healthcare, contractor costs, self-insurance costs and other insurance premiums, as well as various regulatory compliance costs, all of which may be subject to inflationary and other pressures. For example, in recent years, we’ve experienced a rapid increase in the cost of parts, appliance and home system costs due to inflation and global supply chain challenges, which, in turn, increased our contract claims costs. Such increase in operating expenses, including contract claims costs, could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

Our financial performance may be adversely affected by increases in the level of our operating expenses, such as refrigerants, appliances, equipment, parts, raw materials, wages and salaries, employee benefits, healthcare, contractor costs, costs of repair, self-insurance costs and other insurance premiums, as well as various regulatory compliance costs, all of which may be subject to inflationary and other pressures. For example, in recent years, we have experienced a rapid increase in the cost of parts, appliance and home system costs due to inflation and global supply chain challenges, which, in turn, increased our contract claims costs. Such increase in operating expenses, including contract claims costs, could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

Tariff policies are under continuous review and subject to change. For example, rising costs due to blanket tariffs on imported steel and aluminum could increase the costs of parts associated with our repair and replacement of home systems and appliances, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Moreover, new tariffs and changes to U.S. trade policy could prompt retaliation from affected countries, potentially triggering the imposition of tariffs on U.S. goods. Such a “trade war” could lead to general economic downturn or could materially and adversely affect the demand for our services, thus negatively impacting our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

Tariff policies are under continuous review and subject to change. The current U.S. administration has voiced strong concerns about imports from countries that it perceives as engaging in unfair trade practices and could impose import duties or restrictions on components and raw materials that are applicable to our business from countries it perceives as engaging in unfair trade practices. Such duties or restrictions, or the perception that they could occur, may materially and adversely affect our business by increasing our costs or reducing global trade. For example, rising costs due to blanket tariffs on imported steel and aluminum could increase the costs of parts associated with our repair and replacement of home systems and appliances, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Moreover, new tariffs and changes to U.S. trade policy could prompt retaliation from affected countries, potentially triggering the imposition of tariffs on U.S. goods. Such a “trade war” could lead to general economic downturn or could materially and adversely affect the demand for our services, thus negatively impacting our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

The execution of our business strategy and our financial performance will depend in significant part on our executive management team and other key technology personnel, home services experts and other key personnel. Our future success will depend in large part on our success in attracting new talent; utilizing current, experienced senior leadership; and smoothly transitioning responsibilities to and implementing the goals and objectives of our management team. Any inability to attract or retain qualified key executives in a timely manner, or retain or recruit other key personnel, could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

The execution of our business strategy and our financial performance will depend in significant part on our executive management team, home services experts and other key personnel. Our future success will depend in large part on our success in attracting new talent; utilizing current, experienced senior leadership; and smoothly transitioning responsibilities to and implementing the goals and objectives of our management team. Our objectives with respect to integrating and achieving the benefits of the 2-10 HBW Acquisition may be affected by our ability to retain, integrate and motivate employees who have joined from 2-10 HBW. Since the closing of the 2-10 HBW Acquisition, we have lost certain key employees from 2-10 HBW. Any inability to attract or retain qualified key executives in a timely manner, or retain or recruit other key personnel, could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

Our strategy to increase profitability, in part, by reducing our costs of operations includes the implementation of certain business process outsourcing initiatives, including offshore outsourcing of certain aspects of our customer service operations, some of which are located near regions that have previously been affected by Acts of God, such as earthquakes and typhoons, and outsourcing of certain technology development initiatives. Any disruption, termination or substandard performance of these outsourced services, including possible breaches by third-party vendors of their agreements with us, could delay or limit our ability to successfully implement our business strategies and adversely affect our brands, reputation, customer relationships, financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Also, to the extent a third-party vendor relationship is terminated, there is a risk of disputes or litigation and that we may not be able to enter into a similar agreement with an alternate provider in a timely manner or on terms that are acceptable to us or at all. Even if we find an alternate provider, or choose to insource such services, there are significant risks associated with any transitioning activities. In addition, to the extent we decide to terminate outsourcing services and insource such services, there is a risk that we may not have the capabilities to perform these services internally, resulting in a disruption to our business, which could adversely impact our reputation, businesses, financial position, results of operations and cash flows. We could incur costs, including personnel and equipment costs, to insource previously outsourced services like these, and these costs could adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

Our strategy to increase profitability, in part, by reducing our costs of operations includes the implementation of certain business process outsourcing initiatives, including offshore outsourcing of certain aspects of our customer service, administrative and other service operations, some of which are located near regions that have previously been affected by Acts of God, such as earthquakes, wildfires, hurricanes and typhoons, and outsourcing of certain technology development initiatives. Any disruption, termination or substandard performance of these outsourced services, including possible breaches by third-party vendors of their agreements with us, could delay or limit our ability to successfully implement our business strategies and adversely affect our brands, reputation, customer relationships, financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Also, to the extent a third-party vendor relationship is terminated, there is a risk of disputes or litigation and that we may not be able to enter into a similar agreement with an alternate provider in a timely manner or on terms that are acceptable to us or at all. Even if we find an alternate provider, or choose to insource such services, there are significant risks associated with any transitioning activities. In addition, to the extent we decide to terminate outsourcing services and insource such services, there is a risk that we may not have the capabilities to perform these services internally, resulting in a disruption to our business, which could adversely impact our reputation, businesses, financial position, results of operations and cash flows. We could also incur costs, including personnel and equipment costs, to insource previously outsourced services like these, and these costs could adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

Furthermore, offshore outsourcing of certain aspects of our customer service operations may induce negative public reaction. Offshore outsourcing is a politically sensitive topic in the United States. For example, there are concerns in the United States about a perceived association between outsourcing providers and the loss of jobs in the United States. In response to such concerns, federal legislative measures have been proposed in the past, such as limiting income tax credits for companies that offshore American jobs. In addition, there is ongoing publicity about some negative experiences that companies have had with outsourcing, such as theft and misappropriation of sensitive client data. Such negative perceptions that may be associated with using an offshore provider could adversely impact our reputation, businesses, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

Furthermore, offshore outsourcing of certain aspects of our customer service operations may induce negative public reaction. Offshore outsourcing has traditionally been a politically sensitive topic in the United States. For example, there are concerns in the United States about a perceived association between outsourcing providers and the loss of jobs in the United States. In response to such concerns, federal legislative measures have been proposed in the past, such as limiting income tax credits for companies that offshore American jobs. In addition, there is ongoing publicity about some negative experiences that companies have had with outsourcing, such as theft and misappropriation of sensitive client data. Such negative perceptions, or amplification of such negative perceptions, that may be associated with using an offshore provider could adversely impact our reputation, businesses, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

We are dependent on a limited number of suppliers for various key components used in the services and products we offer to customers, and the cost, quality and availability of these components are essential to our services. In particular, we have six national suppliers of parts, appliances and home systems that each account for more than five percent of our supplier spend. We are subject to the risk of shortages, increased costs and long lead times in the supply of these components and other materials, and the risk that our suppliers discontinue or modify, or increase the price of, the components used. If the supply of these components were to be delayed or constrained, or if one or more of our main suppliers were to go out of business, alternative sources or suppliers may not be available on acceptable terms or at all. Further, if there were a shortage of supply, the cost of these components may increase and harm our ability to provide our services on a cost-effective basis. In connection with any supply shortages in the future, reliable and cost-effective replacement sources may not be available on short notice or at all, and this may force us to increase prices and face a corresponding decrease in demand for our services. In the event that any of our suppliers were to discontinue production of our key product components, developing alternate sources of supply for these components would be time consuming, difficult and costly. This would harm our ability to market our services in order to meet market demand and could materially and adversely affect our reputation, business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

We are dependent on a limited number of suppliers for various key components used in the services and products we offer to customers, and the cost, quality and availability of these components are essential to our services. In particular, we have seven national suppliers of parts, appliances and home systems that each account for more than five percent of our supplier spend. We are subject to the risk of shortages, increased costs and long lead times in the supply of these components and other materials, and the risk that our suppliers discontinue or modify, or increase the price of, the components used. If the supply of these components were to be delayed or constrained, or if one or more of our main suppliers were to go out of business, alternative sources or suppliers may not be available on acceptable terms or at all. Further, if there were a shortage of supply, the cost of these components may increase and harm our ability to provide our services on a cost-effective basis. In connection with any supply shortages in the future, reliable and cost-effective replacement sources may not be available on short notice or at all, and this may force us to increase prices and face a corresponding decrease in demand for our services. In the event that any of our suppliers was to discontinue production of our key product components, developing alternate sources of supply for these components would be time consuming, difficult and costly. This would harm our ability to market our services in order to meet market demand and could materially and adversely affect our reputation, business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

We rely on, among other things, commercially available systems, software, tools and monitoring to provide security for processing, transmission and storage of confidential information of customers, associates and third parties, such as payment cards and personal information. The systems currently used for transmission and approval of payment card transactions, and the technology utilized in payment cards themselves, all of which can put payment card data at risk, are central to meeting standards set by the payment card industry (“PCI”). We continue to evaluate and modify these systems and protocols for PCI compliance purposes, and such PCI standards may change from time to time. At our customers’ request, we also use our proprietary Streem technology to capture key information about our customers’ appliances, HVAC and other home systems and may, through these video chat sessions, capture additional information related to our customer or their home.

Current wording

We rely on, among other things, commercially available systems, software, tools and monitoring to provide security for processing, transmission and storage of confidential information of customers, associates and third parties, such as payment cards and personal information. The systems currently used for transmission and approval of payment card transactions, and the technology utilized in payment cards themselves, all of which can put payment card data at risk, are central to meeting standards set by the payment card industry (“PCI”). We continue to evaluate and modify these systems and protocols for PCI compliance purposes, and such PCI standards may change from time to time. At our customers’ request, we also use our proprietary technology to capture key information about our customers’ appliances, HVAC and other home systems and may, through video chat sessions, capture additional information related to our customer or their home.

Previous wording

Data protection legislation is also becoming increasingly common in the United States at both the federal and state level. For example, the State of California enacted the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018 (the “CCPA”), which became effective on January 1, 2020. The CCPA requires companies that process information of California residents to make disclosures to consumers about their data collection, use and sharing practices, allows consumers to opt out of certain data sharing with third parties and provides a new cause of action for data breaches. Additionally, the California Privacy Rights Act (the “CPRA”), which became effective January 1, 2023, revised and significantly expanded the scope of the CCPA. The CPRA also creates a new California data protection agency authorized to implement and enforce the CCPA and the CPRA, which could result in increased privacy and information security enforcement.

Current wording

Data protection legislation is also becoming increasingly common in the United States at both the federal and state level. For example, the State of California enacted the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018 (the “CCPA”), which became effective on January 1, 2020. The CCPA requires companies that process information of California residents to make disclosures to consumers about their data collection, use and sharing practices, allows consumers to opt out of certain data sharing with third parties and provides a new cause of action for data breaches. Additionally, the California Privacy Rights Act (the “CPRA”), which became effective January 1, 2023, revised and significantly expanded the scope of the CCPA. The CPRA also created a new California data protection agency authorized to implement and enforce the CCPA and the CPRA, which could result in increased privacy and information security enforcement.

Previous wording

Additional U.S. states have passed their own comprehensive consumer privacy laws, some of which went into effect in 2023 or will go into effect in 2024, and other states are considering doing so. Additionally, the Federal Trade Commission and many state attorneys general are interpreting federal and state consumer protection laws to impose standards for the online collection, use, dissemination and security of data. The burdens imposed by the CCPA, CPRA and other similar laws that may be enacted at the federal and state level may require us to further modify our data processing practices and policies and to incur substantial expenditures in order to comply.

Current wording

Additional U.S. states have passed their own comprehensive consumer privacy laws, some of which went into effect in 2023 and 2024 or will go into effect in 2025, and other states are considering doing so. Additionally, the Federal Trade Commission and many state attorneys general are interpreting federal and state consumer protection laws to impose standards for the online collection, use, dissemination and security of data. The burdens imposed by the CCPA, CPRA and other similar laws that may be enacted at the federal and state level may require us to further modify our data processing practices and policies and to incur substantial expenditures in order to comply.

Previous wording

Our business is subject to significant federal, state and local laws and regulations. These laws and regulations include but are not limited to laws relating to consumer protection, unfair and/or deceptive trading practices, service contracts, home warranties, home service plans, real estate settlement, wage and hour requirements, state contractor laws, the employment of immigrants, labor relations, licensing, building code requirements, workers’ safety, environmental, privacy and data protection, securities, insurance coverages, sales tax collection and remittance, healthcare reforms, employee benefits, marketing (including, without limitation, telemarketing) and advertising. In addition, we are regulated by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and in certain states by the applicable state insurance regulatory authority or other state regulatory bodies, such as the Virginia Department of Agriculture and the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Failure to comply with such laws and regulations may have a material adverse impact on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Additionally, while we do not consider ourselves to be an insurance company, the IRS or state agencies could deem us to be taxed as such, which could adversely impact the timing of our tax payments.

Current wording

Our business is subject to significant federal, state and local laws and regulations. These laws and regulations include but are not limited to laws relating to consumer protection, unfair and/or deceptive trading practices, service contracts, home warranties, home service plans, real estate settlement, wage and hour requirements, state contractor laws, the employment of immigrants, labor relations, licensing, building code requirements, workers’ safety, environmental, privacy and data protection, securities, insurance coverages, sales tax collection and remittance, healthcare reforms, employee benefits, marketing (including, without limitation, telemarketing) and advertising. In addition, we are regulated by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and in certain states by the applicable state insurance regulatory authority or other state regulatory bodies, such as the Virginia Department of Agriculture and the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, with respect to our home warranty business, and by the Department of Insurance for the District of Columbia and other state insurance bodies, with respect to our new home structural warranty business nationwide. Some of these laws and regulations require that we obtain regulatory approval prior to implementing changes in our pricing, contract terms and claims handling processes, which may limit or slow our ability to adjust our business strategies to address evolving challenges or opportunities. Failure to comply with such laws and regulations may have a material adverse impact on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Additionally, a portion of our business operates as an insurance company, and the IRS or state agencies could deem us to be taxed across our company as such, which could adversely impact the timing of our tax payments.

Previous wording

We are also subject to various federal, state and local laws and regulations designed to protect consumers, including laws governing deceptive trade practices, consumer privacy and fraud, the collection and use of consumer data, telemarketing and other forms of solicitation. From time to time, we have received and we expect that we may continue to receive inquiries or investigative demands from regulatory bodies, including the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and state attorneys general and other state agencies. The telemarketing rules adopted by the Federal Communications Commission pursuant to the Federal Telephone Consumer Protection Act and the Federal Telemarketing Sales Rule issued by the Federal Trade Commission govern our telephone sales practices. In addition, some states and local governing bodies have adopted laws and regulations targeted at direct telephone sales, i.e., “do-not-call” regulations. The implementation of these marketing regulations requires us to rely more extensively on other marketing methods and channels and may have a material adverse impact on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

We are also subject to various federal, state and local laws and regulations designed to protect consumers, including laws governing deceptive trade practices, consumer privacy and fraud, the collection and use of consumer data, telemarketing and other forms of solicitation. From time to time, we have received and we expect that we may continue to receive inquiries or investigative demands from regulatory bodies, including the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and state attorneys general and other state agencies. The telemarketing rules adopted by the Federal Communications Commission pursuant to the Telephone Consumer Protection Act and the Telemarketing Sales Rule issued by the Federal Trade Commission govern our telephone sales practices. In addition, some states and local governing bodies have adopted laws and regulations targeted at direct telephone sales, i.e., “do-not-call” regulations. The implementation of these marketing regulations requires us to rely more extensively on other marketing methods and channels and may have a material adverse impact on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

Various federal, state and local governing bodies may propose additional legislation and regulation that may be detrimental to our business or may substantially increase our operating costs, including: increases in the minimum wage; environmental regulations related to climate change, equipment efficiency standards, certain refrigerant production and use and other environmental matters; healthcare coverage; “do-not-call” or other marketing regulations; or regulations implemented in response to business practices in our industry. It is difficult to predict the future impact of the broad and expanding legislative and regulatory requirements affecting our business, and changes to such requirements may adversely affect our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows. In addition, if we were to fail to comply with any applicable law or regulation, we could be subject to substantial fines or damages, be involved in lawsuits, enforcement actions and other claims by third parties or governmental authorities, suffer harm to our reputation, suffer the loss of licenses or incur penalties that may affect how our business is operated, any of which, in turn, could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

Various federal, state and local governing bodies may propose additional legislation and regulation that may be detrimental to our business or may substantially increase our operating costs, including: increases in the minimum wage; environmental regulations, equipment efficiency standards, certain refrigerant production and use and other environmental matters; healthcare coverage; “do-not-call” or other marketing regulations; or regulations implemented in response to business practices in our industry. It is difficult to predict the future impact of the broad and expanding legislative and regulatory requirements affecting our business, and changes to such requirements may adversely affect our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows. In addition, if we were to fail to comply with any applicable law or regulation, we could be subject to substantial fines or damages, be involved in lawsuits, enforcement actions and other claims by third parties or governmental authorities, suffer harm to our reputation, suffer the loss of licenses or incur penalties that may affect how our business is operated, any of which, in turn, could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

Physical impacts of climate change, which may increase the frequency and intensity of adversew eather conditions and natural disasters, seasonality and the increased focus by investors and other stakeholders on sustainability issues, can affect the demand for our services, our ability to operate and our results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

Weather, including the frequency and intensity of weather conditions, natural disasters and seasonality, as well as related regulations, can affect the demand for our services, our ability to operate and our results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

The demand for our services, and our results of operations, are affected by weather conditions and seasonality, which may be exacerbated by thepotential impacts of climate change, known and unknown. Seasonality causes our results of operations to vary considerably from quarter to quarter. Accordingly, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be achieved for the full fiscal year. Extreme temperatures, typically in the winter and summer months, can lead to an increase in service requests related to home systems, particularly HVAC systems, resulting in higher costs and lower profitability, while mild temperatures in the winter or summer months can lead to lower home systems claim frequency, resulting in lower costs and higher profitability. For example, favorable weather trends in 2023 as compared to 2022 resulted in a lower number of service requests per customer, which favorably impacted contract claims costs.

Current wording

The demand for our services, and our results of operations, are affected by the frequency and intensity of weather conditions and seasonality. Seasonality causes our results of operations to vary considerably from quarter to quarter. Accordingly, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be achieved for the full fiscal year. Extreme temperatures, typically in the winter and summer months, can lead to an increase in home warranty service requests related to home systems, particularly HVAC systems, resulting in higher costs and lower profitability, while mild temperatures in the winter or summer months can lead to lower home systems claim frequency, resulting in lower costs and higher profitability. For example, favorable weather trends in 2024 as compared to 2023 resulted in a lower number of home warranty service requests per customer, which favorably impacted contract claims costs.

Previous wording

While weather variations as described above may affect our business, major weather events and other similar Acts of God, or natural disasters such as typhoons, hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires or earthquakes, typically do not increase our obligations to provide service. Generally, repairs associated with such isolated events are addressed by homeowners’ and other forms of insurance as opposed to the home warranties that we offer. Nevertheless, such weather events could affect our facilities, or those of our major suppliers or business process outsource providers, which could affect our costs, our ability to meet supply requirements, our ability to provide services and our ability to access our data and other records. Extreme or unpredictable weather conditions could materially adversely impact our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

Major weather events and other similar Acts of God, or natural disasters such as typhoons, hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires or earthquakes, may affect the demand for our services and our results of operations. Such weather events could affect our facilities, or those of our major suppliers or business process outsource providers, which could affect our costs, our ability to meet supply requirements, our ability to provide services and our ability to access our data and other records. Extreme or unpredictable weather conditions could materially adversely impact our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

New climate change-related regulations or interpretations of existing laws may result in enhanced disclosure obligations, which could negatively affect us and materially increase our regulatory burden. Increased regulations generally increase our costs, and we could continue to experience higher costs if new laws require us to spend more time, hire additional personnel or buy new technology to comply effectively. New regulations or guidance relating to climate change, as well as the perspectives of shareholders, employees and other stakeholders regarding these standards, may affect our business activities and increase disclosure requirements, which may increase costs.

Current wording

New environmental regulations or interpretations of existing laws may result in enhanced disclosure obligations, which could negatively affect us and materially increase our regulatory burden. Increased regulations generally increase our costs, and we could continue to experience higher costs if new laws require us to spend more time, hire additional personnel or buy new technology to comply effectively. New environmental regulations or guidance, as well as the perspectives of shareholders, employees and other stakeholders regarding these standards, may affect our business activities and operations, or increase disclosure and compliance requirements, which may increase our costs.

Previous wording

We are subject to changing rules and regulations promulgated by a number of governmental and self-regulatory organizations, including the SEC, NASDAQ and FASB. These rules and regulations continue to evolve in scope and complexity and many new requirements have been created in response to laws enacted by Congress, making compliance more difficult and uncertain. In addition, increasingly regulators, customers, investors, employees and other stakeholders are focusing on environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) matters and related disclosures, including expanding mandatory and voluntary reporting, diligence and disclosure on topics such as human capital, climate change, labor and risk oversight. If we are unable to adequately address such ESG matters or we or contractors fail to comply with all related laws, regulations and policies, it could negatively impact our reputation and our business results.

Current wording

We are subject to changing rules and regulations promulgated by a number of governmental and self-regulatory organizations, including the SEC, NASDAQ and FASB. These rules and regulations continue to evolve in scope and complexity and many new requirements have been created in response to laws enacted by Congress, making compliance more difficult and uncertain. In addition, regulators, customers, investors, employees and other stakeholders may focus on corporate governance, environmental and other related matters and disclosures, including expanding mandatory and voluntary requests for additional reporting, diligence and disclosure on such matters. If we are unable to adequately address such matters or we or our contractors, vendors or suppliers fail to comply with all related laws, regulations and policies, it could negatively impact our reputation, operations and our business results.

Previous wording

Evolving ESG rules, regulations and stakeholder expectations have resulted in, and are likely to continue to result in, increased general and administrative expenses and increased management time and attention spent complying with or meeting such regulations and expectations. Developing and acting on initiatives within the scope of ESG, and collecting, measuring and reporting ESG related information and metrics can be costly, difficult and time consuming and is subject to evolving reporting standards, including the SEC’s proposed climate-related reporting requirements, the new California climate disclosure rules, and similar proposals by other U.S. regulatory bodies. We may also communicate certain initiatives and goals, regarding environmental matters, diversity, responsible sourcing and social investments and other ESG related matters, in our SEC filings or in other public disclosures. These initiatives and goals within the scope of ESG could be difficult and expensive to implement, the technologies needed to implement them may not be cost-effective and may not advance at a sufficient pace, and we could be criticized for the accuracy, adequacy or completeness of the disclosure. Further, statements about our ESG related initiatives and goals, and progress against those goals, may be based on standards for measuring progress that are still developing, internal controls and processes that continue to evolve, and assumptions that are subject to change in the future. If our ESG-related data, processes and reporting are incomplete, inaccurate or criticized, or if we fail to achieve progress with respect to our goals within the scope of ESG on a timely basis, or at all, our reputation, business, financial performance and growth could be adversely affected.

Current wording

Evolving governance rules, regulations and stakeholder expectations have resulted in, and may continue to result in, increased general and administrative expenses and increased management time and attention spent complying with or meeting such regulations and expectations. Developing and acting on initiatives within the scope of corporate governance, and collecting, measuring and reporting related information and metrics can be costly, difficult and time consuming and is subject to evolving reporting standards, including, the new California climate disclosure rules, and similar proposals by other federal and state regulatory bodies. If our corporate governance, environmental or other related data, processes or reporting are incomplete, inaccurate or criticized, our reputation, business, financial performance and growth could be adversely affected.

Previous wording

Our ability to compete effectively depends in part on our rights to proprietary information, service marks, trademarks, trade names, patents and other intellectual property rights we own or license, particularly our brand names, Frontdoor and American Home Shield, as well as the patents related to our Streem technology platform. We have not sought to register or protect every one of our marks in the United States. If we are unable to protect our proprietary information and intellectual property rights, including brand names and patents, it could cause a material adverse effect on our reputation, business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Litigation may be necessary to enforce our intellectual property rights and protect our proprietary information, or to defend against claims by third parties that our products, services or activities infringe their intellectual property rights.

Current wording

Our ability to compete effectively depends in part on our rights to proprietary information, service marks, trademarks, trade names, and other intellectual property rights we own or license, particularly our brand names, Frontdoor, American Home Shield and 2-10 HBW. We have not sought to register or protect every one of our marks in the United States. If we are unable to protect our proprietary information and intellectual property rights, including brand names, it could cause a material adverse effect on our reputation, business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Litigation may be necessary to enforce our intellectual property rights and protect our proprietary information, or to defend against claims by third parties that our products, services or activities infringe their intellectual property rights.

Previous wording

Our business strategy includes the pursuit of opportunistic strategic transactions, which could involve acquisitions or dispositions of businesses or assets. For example, in 2019, we acquired Streem toenable home service professionals to more efficiently interact with customers and complete repairs, and, in 2020, we acquired a business to expand on-demand home services via their intellectual capital and know-how, technology platform capabilities and geographic presence. Any future strategic transaction could involve integration or implementation challenges, business disruption or other risks, or change our business profile significantly. Any inability on our part to consolidate and manage growth from acquired businesses or successfully implement other strategic transactions could have an adverse impact on our reputation, business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Any acquisition that we make may not provide us with the benefits that were anticipated when entering into such acquisition. The process of integrating an acquired business may create unforeseen difficulties and expenses, including: the diversion of resources needed to integrate new businesses, technologies, products, personnel or systems; the inability to retain employees, customers and suppliers; the assumption of actual or contingent liabilities; failure to effectively and timely adopt and adhere to internal control processes and other policies; write-offs or impairment charges relating to goodwill and other intangible assets; unanticipated liabilities; distraction of senior management from other strategic priorities; and potential expense associated with litigation with sellers of such businesses. Any future disposition transactions could also impact our business and may subject us to various risks, including failure to obtain appropriate value for the disposed businesses and post-closing claims.

Current wording

Our business strategy includes the pursuit of opportunistic strategic transactions, which could involve acquisitions or dispositions of businesses or assets. For example, in 2024, we acquired 2-10 HBW to access a business opportunity in the new home structural warranty space, complement our existing business and provide cross-selling opportunities for home warranties and our non-warranty services. Any future strategic transaction could involve integration or implementation challenges, business disruption or other risks, or change our business profile significantly. Any inability on our part to consolidate and manage growth from acquired businesses or successfully implement other strategic transactions could have an adverse impact on our reputation, business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Any acquisition that we make may not provide us with the benefits that were anticipated when entering into such acquisition. The process of integrating an acquired business may create unforeseen difficulties and expenses, including: the diversion of resources needed to integrate new businesses, technologies, products, personnel or systems; the inability to retain employees, customers and suppliers; the assumption of actual or contingent liabilities; failure to effectively and timely adopt and adhere to internal control processes and other policies; write-offs or impairment charges relating to goodwill and other intangible assets; unanticipated liabilities; distraction of senior management from other strategic priorities; and potential expense associated with litigation with sellers of such businesses. Any future disposition transactions could also impact our business and may subject us to various risks, including failure to obtain appropriate value for the disposed businesses and post-closing claims.

Previous wording

We derive substantially all of our revenue from customers in the United States; however, certain aspects of our customer service operations and other services are conducted outside the United States by business process outsource providers in Colombia, Ghana, Guyana, Mexico, the Philippines and Trinidad and Tobago, and we have a technology collaboration center in India. Accordingly, developments in those parts of the world generally have a more significant effect on our operations than developments in other places. Our operations outside the United States are also subject to special risks, including: fluctuations in currency values and foreign-currency exchange rates, which may affect our net income and the carrying amount of our assets outside the United States; exchange control regulations; changes in local political or economic conditions; other potentially detrimental domestic and foreign governmental practice or policies affecting U.S. companies operating abroad; difficulties in staffing and managing international political instability, operations; and operational and compliance challenges resulting from distance, language and cultural differences. Acts of God, war, terror acts and epidemic disease, such as COVID-19, may impair our ability to operate or the ability of our business process outsource providers to operate, in particular countries or regions.

Current wording

We derive substantially all of our revenue from customers in the United States; however, certain aspects of our customer service operations and other services are conducted outside the United States by business process outsource providers in Colombia, Ghana, Guyana, Mexico, the Philippines and Trinidad and Tobago, and we have a technology collaboration center in India. Accordingly, developments in those parts of the world generally have a more significant effect on our operations than developments in other places. Our operations outside the United States are also subject to special risks, including: fluctuations in currency values and foreign-currency exchange rates, which may affect our net income and the carrying amount of our assets outside the United States; exchange control regulations; changes in local political or economic conditions; other potentially detrimental domestic and foreign governmental practice or policies affecting U.S. companies operating abroad; difficulties in staffing and managing international political instability, operations; and operational and compliance challenges resulting from distance, language and cultural differences. Acts of God, war, terror acts and pandemics or other public health crises, such as COVID-19, may impair our ability to operate or the ability of our business process outsource providers to operate, in particular countries or regions.

Previous wording

We do not intend to pay cash dividends on our common stock and, consequently, your ability to achieve a return on your investment will depend on appreciation in the price of our common stock.

Current wording

We do not intend to pay cash dividends on our common stock at this point and, consequently, your ability to achieve a return on your investment will depend on appreciation in the price of our common stock.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, we had approximately $593 million of total consolidated long-term indebtedness, including the current portion of long-term debt, outstanding.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, we had $1,199 million of total consolidated long-term indebtedness, including the current portion of long-term debt, outstanding, which is all outstanding under our Term Loan Facilities. These amounts include the incremental borrowings used to finance a portion of the 2-10 HBW Acquisition.