That’s where a home warranty program can come in handy. It protects your investment and reduces repair costs that could put you in debt. However, comparing home warranties can be confusing and time-consuming. Exclusions, coverage limitations, and service fees are just a few of the key factors you should research.
To make things easier and help you better understand what to look for, we’ve evaluated the most popular companies in the industry and compiled a list of the best home warranty providers.
Our Top 10 Best Home Warranty Companies:
- Choice Home Guarantee: Best overall home warranty company
- Choose Home Warranty: Affordable premiums and rates
- American Home Shield: Best for personalized plans
- Home Warranty of America: Best for comprehensive coverage for home appliances
- America’s First Home Guarantee: Best for high payments
- Home Maintenance Club: Best for pre-existing condition coverage
- Liberty Home Guard: Fast claims processing for homeowners
- Elite Home Warranty: Adjustable Warranty Policy
- Mike Holmes Protection: Unlimited Coverage for Home Systems and Up to $6,000 on Appliances
- 2-10 Home Buyer’s Warranty: Best for Fast Service
Our Review Methodology: Evaluating the Best Home Warranty Companies
It’s important to get the best advice and information when comparing home warranty companies. That’s why, in addition to the basic criteria in our list below, we also consider customer feedback and use our industry experience to only offer high-quality services. Our methodology is based on the following factors:
- Average Annual Fee
- Number of Contractors
- Service Call Fee
- When can service requests be submitted?
- Coverage Range
- Types of Plans Available (Premier, Gold, Platinum, etc.)
Our Top 10 Best Home Warranty Companies – Quick Reviews:
Choice
A Choice Home Warranty is an ideal and affordable option for first-time home buyers. Choose between their customizable Basic Plan (12 items) and Total Plan (16 items), with up to $3,000 in coverage for each successful claim.
DebtHammer CEO Jake Hill notes that Choice Home Warranty is also “especially helpful for older homeowners” because they “aren’t denied coverage because of the age of their systems or equipment.”
Instead of changing their service prices, they charge just $85 per claim. Plus, the first month is free for new customers.
Why we chose Choice Home Warranty: Unlike other services, Choice Home Warranty responds quickly to inquiries and requests, provides reliable customer service, and offers affordable annual fees.
Our experience: We were impressed with Choice Home Warranty’s quick response time when filing claims online and over the phone. The support specialists we worked with were knowledgeable and provided us with helpful information right away.
Read the Choice Home Guarantee review
PROS
- Low fees
- First month free
- 24/7 home warranty solutions available by phone and online
CONS
- Coverage limits range from $250 to $3,000 per item
- Not available in California
Select Home Warranty
Select Home Guarantee offers competitively priced coverage for major home appliances and systems. Their fees start at just $36 per month, which is more affordable than other home warranty companies.
Jennifer Spinelli, a real estate professional, investment advisor, and founder and CEO of Cash For Houses, describes Select Home Warranty as “reliable and trustworthy.” She adds that she no longer has to worry about “expensive repairs or replacements due to accidents or breakdowns.”
There are three different plans available, and all include free roof leak coverage. However, Select Home Warranty services are not available in Nevada, Washington, or Wisconsin.
Why we chose Select Home Warranty: Their affordable rates and minimum payments set them apart from the competition. Plus, they offer two free months with their annual plan.
Our experience: We were particularly impressed with Select Home Warranty’s friendly 24/7 phone support and free roof leak insurance.
Read our Select Home Warranty review.
PROS
- Affordable pricing
- 24/7 phone support
- Free roof drainage coverage
CONS
- Lower coverage limits
- Not available in Nevada, Washington, or Wisconsin
American Home Shield
In business since 1971, American Home Shield is the largest and most respected home warranty company in the U.S. market with over two million members.
Former investment banker and founder of Top Mobile Banks, Tommy Gallagher, was impressed with the variety of contractors available and the quality of service.
Choose from three customizable plans: ShieldSilver, ShieldGold, and ShieldPlatinum. The ShieldSilver plan covers 14 major systems, while the ShieldGold plan covers 23.
For added benefits, ShieldPlatinum includes comprehensive system and equipment coverage. This includes additional cost-effective services like free HVAC installation, unlimited air conditioner refrigerant, leak and code violation coverage, and higher repair and replacement payment limits.
Why we chose American Home Shield: They operate in 47 states and Washington, D.C., and you can customize your plan. American Home Shield automatically covers replicas and antiques against rust and corrosion.
Our experience: We found American Home Shield to be a great option for those looking for highly customizable plans and access to a wide network of contractors. We easily found a plan that met our needs.
Read American Home Shield Review
PROS
- Highly customizable plans
- Includes previously undiscovered conditions
- Cover antiques, including rust and corrosion
CONS
- No repair time guarantee
- Not available in Alaska, New York, or Hawaii.
Home Warranty of America
Home Warranty of America offers comprehensive insurance policies that cover most home appliances and systems. They offer up to $15,000 in annual repair and replacement coverage, plus 24/7 phone and online support, as well as a 30-day money-back guarantee.
They may be a little more expensive than some competitors, but the investment is worth it. All plans include a service deductible.
Why we chose Home Warranty of America: Home Warranty of America offers nationwide service and excellent value for all home appliances.
Our Experience: We were impressed with Home Warranty and their efficient customer service in the US. Purchasing a plan was easy, and we appreciated their 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read the American Home Warranty review
PROS
- Cover most home appliances
- High coverage limits
- 30-day money-back guarantee
CONS
- 30-day waiting period
- 10% cancellation fee
The First American
First American Home Warranty is an ideal choice for those looking for solid protection for their systems and home appliances. The company has been in business since 1984 and claims to have saved homeowners over $219 million in repair costs.
Coverage is offered in two basic and one premium plans. Some of the best features of First American Home Warranty include product protection regardless of age and the replacement of defective products with equivalent new ones if they can’t be repaired.
Why we chose First American Home Warranty? First American Home Warranty offers specialized programs for both real estate professionals and service providers. They also offer 24/7 claims support, fully vetted sellers, and a transparent application process.
Our experience: We liked First American Home Warranty’s response time, which was significantly faster than other companies.
Read the First American Home Warranty review.
PROS
- 24/7 claims support
- Fully vetted sellers
- Low prices and service fees
CONS
- Price breakdown is difficult to understand without a personal quote
- Your application score is low
Home Service Club
Home Service Club (HSC) offers two service plans: Standard and Comprehensive. The Standard plan covers 18 major home appliances and systems, while the Comprehensive plan covers 33. Additional services, such as pool and roof coverage, are available for an additional fee.
HSC’s unique plans include pest damage and utility line coverage, which sets them apart from other home warranty services. You can also choose your service fee from three options ($65, $95, and $125), and all repairs include a 90-day warranty.
However, HSC charges higher-than-average service fees and additional fees. You must live in a single-family home, apartment, townhouse, or multi-unit building to participate in the program.
Why did we choose Home Service Club? HSC offers a wide range of additional services, including gas lines, septic tanks, water mains, swimming pools and spas. What’s more, the company’s services are available nationwide, with no exceptions.
Our Experience We appreciate that HSC offers pest damage coverage, which many competitors do not.
Read the Home Care Club review
PROS
- Offers pest damage insurance
- Available nationwide
- 90-day warranty on all repairs
CONS
- High base fees and service fees
- Prices not listed on the website
Liberty Home Guard
With high ratings and excellent reviews, Liberty Home Guard has earned a reputation for providing reliable service to its customers.
They offer three plans (Systems Guard, Appliance Guard and Total Home Guard) with additional financial protection for roof leaks, stand-alone refrigerators, generators, carpet cleaning and pressure washing. New policyholders also receive free limited roof leak protection and two months of free coverage.
Liberty Home Guard’s unique claims process sets them apart from other home warranty providers. They have a 24/7 call center and guarantee to assign a contractor to your claim within 24 to 48 hours. They also have a network of over 10,000 qualified technicians in all 50 states.
Liberty Home Guard has launched a comprehensive mobile app that is revolutionizing the way homeowners manage their escrow accounts, file claims, and access real-time information. The app offers features such as easy access to warranty details, efficient claim management, easy payment tracking, seamless communication with technicians, real-time notifications, and a wealth of home maintenance knowledge.
Why did we choose Liberty Home Guard? Liberty Home Guard rates start at just $1 per day, and their technicians arrive within 24-48 hours of a claim being filed.
Our Experience: We’ve been pleased with Liberty Home Guard’s reliability, speed of claim processing, and excellent customer service.
Read Liberty Home Guard review
PROS
- Excellent customer service
- Currently offering two months free.
- Highly rated by customers.
CONS
- Not available in Wisconsin
- Fewer technicians compared to other companies
Elite Home Warranty
Elite Home Warranty offers highly customizable home warranty policies. You can choose from three warranty packages and dozens of additional services, or create a fully customized policy that protects the appliances and systems that matter most to you. You can also adjust coverage limits and co-pays for service visits. Overall, Elite Home Warranty policies are comprehensive and affordable.
Elite Home Warranty is one of the few home warranty providers that allows you to choose your own service technician. The company also has a nationwide network of contractors and can dispatch them within 24-48 hours of your request. You can file a claim 24/7 online, by phone, or through the Elite Home Warranty mobile app.
Read the Elite Home Warranty review
PROS
- Choose personalized coverage limits
- Networked service technicians or choose your own
- Submit claims 24/7 online, by phone, or via app
CONS
- Service visit co-pays can be up to $130 each time.
- The service performance guarantee is only 30 days.
Mike Holmes Protection
Mike Holmes Protection offers customizable home warranty policies that provide unlimited coverage for your home systems and up to $6,000 for your appliances. The company has a network of over 11,500 contractors and responds to your inquiries 24/7.
Why we chose Mike Holmes Protection: Mike Holmes Protection is more expensive than its competitors, but it will give you peace of mind knowing that even the most expensive repairs will be fully covered. The company also boasts excellent ratings from homeowners for its quick response to complaints.
Our Experience: I found Mike Holmes Protection’s support team to be very attentive and helpful. I also love that I can get a free quote and sign up online in just a few minutes.
Read Mike Holmes Protection Review
PROS
Unlimited coverage for home system repairs.
Multiple plans with many add-ons.
Excellent reputation for quick repairs.
CONS
- Only available in 36 states.
- Premiums are higher than the industry average.
2-10 Home Buyers Guarantee
2-10 Home Buyer’s Guarantee has 40 years of experience in the home warranty industry. It offers three plans: $19.99 per month, $51 per month, and $60 per month. Service fees are adjustable and range from $65 to $100 per visit, but the base fee is $85. 2-10 HBW offers a generous $25,000 annual coverage limit that protects you against multiple appliance or system failures.
To get started, simply visit the 2-10 HBW website or call customer service. You can purchase a warranty at any time, whether you’re buying, selling, or currently living in your home. Support is available 24/7, and you’ll receive a service call within 24 to 48 hours of submitting your claim.
Benefits:
- Annual coverage limit of up to $25,000
- Everyday wear coverage
- Refund of service fee if item is not covered
- Customers receive discounts on GE and Whirlpool appliances
Plans and pricing:
The 2-10 Home Buyer’s Guarantee offers three plans and optional additional coverage.
- Simple Kitchen: Includes six kitchen appliances
- Complete Home: Covers 22 home appliances and systems, including all appliances covered by the Simple Kitchen plan
- Pinnacle Home: Covers 32 home appliances and systems, including all appliances covered by the Complete Home plan
States covered:
The 2-10 Home Buyer’s Guarantee is available in 42 states, but not Alaska, Hawaii, Montana, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, or Wyoming.
Read reviews of the 2-10 Home Buyer’s Guarantee
PROS
- Available in 48 contiguous states
- Buy a plan whenever you want
- Coverage limit of $25,000 per year
CONS
- Expensive annual fee
- High basic service fee
Comparing the Top Home Warranty Companies
Now that you have more information about the top 10 home warranty companies, it’s time to compare them. The home warranty table below outlines each company’s features and services, including coverage details, average annual fees, and customer experiences.
As you review the table, consider the coverage inclusions and limitations. Carefully review service fees to make sure you’re not overpaying for repairs in an attempt to save on your annual fee. Finally, read customer reviews to learn about each company’s performance, as well as the quality and timeliness of their repairs. With this information, you can easily determine which company offers the best plans at the most affordable prices.
What is a Home Warranty?
A home warranty is a contract that provides homeowners with coverage for the repair and replacement of major home systems and appliances due to normal wear and tear. It offers protection against unexpected breakdowns, including the repair or replacement of insured items such as air conditioners, furnaces, refrigerators, washing machines, and plumbing systems.
How Do Home Warranties Work?
Home warranties help homeowners cover the cost of repairing or replacing appliances, systems, and other household items that break down over time. Purchasing a home warranty is like having a safety net for unexpected repairs. If something goes wrong with your insured items, the appliance warranty company pays for the repair or replacement, up to the limit of your plan.
If you have a problem with your insured item, you can call the warranty company and they will send a technician to repair it. The technician will use parts from an approved list to repair or replace the item and get it working again.
You’ll typically pay a small service fee, or deductible, for each repair or replacement. Your plan will cover the remainder up to your insurance premium. That’s why many people consider homeowners’ warranties a worthwhile investment. You don’t pay anything if something breaks.
Are Home Warranty Plans Worth It?
Homeowners’ warranty plans are a great option for many homeowners. They protect them from unexpected repairs and high replacement costs, especially for large appliances like refrigerators or washing machines.
There are many reasons to get a homeowners’ warranty plan, including the peace of mind of knowing that if something breaks in your home, you may not have to pay as much to fix it. Many companies also offer additional coverage options, such as pools, spas, additional equipment, or systems, so you can tailor your plan to your needs.
Determining the Need for a Home Warranty
A homeowner’s warranty can be useful in many situations, whether you’re moving into a new home or one you’ve loved for decades. For those moving into a newly constructed home, a warranty covers defects and breakdowns in the home’s major systems and appliances. It can even reduce overall maintenance costs during the first year.
Getting insurance for your older home is also a good idea, as it protects against costly repairs due to age and wear and tear. While most plans don’t cover problems with older homes, some homeowner’s warranties cover pre-existing problems, allowing for repair services at a reduced or free cost.
How to Choose the Best Home Warranty Plan for Your Needs
When you’re ready to buy a home warranty plan, follow these steps to make sure you choose the company that best suits your needs.
- Look at different plans and compare features. Learn about different home warranty contracts to determine which one best suits your needs. Consider the coverage limits, service fees, and other benefits offered by each plan.
- Ask important questions. Contact home warranty companies if you have questions about their plans. Make sure you understand what’s included and whether any restrictions or limitations apply.
- Get home warranty quotes from multiple providers. When you’re ready to buy, compare prices and get quotes from multiple providers. Make sure you read the fine print of the contract before making a decision.
- Check the warranties. Look for companies that are certified by organizations like the National Association of Home Service Contractors to ensure they have a good reputation and are properly licensed and regulated.
- Read customer reviews. Read reviews of home warranties from customers who have used the company in the past. Check their customer service for reliability, attentiveness, and responsiveness so you know how to file a complaint or request a repair in the future.
Coverage Details of Home Warranty Plans
Basic home warranty plans typically cover major appliances and offer coverage for the following:
- Refrigerators
- Dishwashers
- Washing machines
- Dryers
- Stoves and ovens
- Garbage disposals
In addition, most home warranties cover the following major systems:
- Electrical system
- Air conditioners
- Water heater
- Air conditioner
- Heating and cooling system
- Unusual plumbing system
- Garage door
For an additional fee, many home warranties offer extended coverage for the following items:
- Septic tanks
- In-ground swimming pools
- Borehole pumps
- Sump pumps
- Septic systems
- Central vacuum systems
- Spas
- Water heaters
Cost Considerations for Home Warranty Plans
Home warranty plans typically cost between $300 and $600 per year, which is around $25 to $50 per month. Some companies offer monthly payment options, but pay annually if possible, as many providers offer discounts.
Additionally, most home warranty companies charge or waive a service fee each time. This can cost anywhere from $60 to $150. There may also be fees for after-hours repairs, special services, and other services that are not included in your plan. Read the terms and conditions of your plan to understand exactly what these fees are.
Advantages of Purchasing a Home Warranty
Home warranties, which are an extra layer of protection for your home, can cover expensive repairs or help finance the replacement of appliances and other important items. With a home warranty plan, you can avoid unexpected expenses and enjoy peace of mind knowing that all warranty issues are covered.
Benefits for Homeowners and Landlords with a Home Warranty Policy
Homeowners and landlords can benefit from home warranty policies because they cover the cost of repairing and replacing major home appliances and systems that eventually break down. This is especially helpful for homeowners who rely on rental income to pay their bills and cover maintenance costs. With a home warranty plan, they don’t have to worry about additional repair costs.
Homeowners also benefit from knowing that if something goes wrong, they won’t have to rush to raise funds or find a contractor. Most companies offer customized coverage options that allow homeowners to choose the specific items they want to be protected for.
What Types of Home Warranty Plans Are Available?
Home warranty plans are a useful way to protect yourself from costly repairs. There are several types of home warranties, so it’s important to understand what each plan covers. Below is a summary of the different types of plans and what they include.
Appliance-only plans: Major appliances, such as stoves, garbage disposals, refrigerators, and ovens. Systems-only plans: Home systems, such as plumbing, electrical, and air conditioning.
Comprehensive plans: Both major appliances and home systems.
Additional coverage: Items not included in your basic plan, such as swimming pools, spas, secondary refrigerators, septic tanks, sump pumps, and well pumps.
Regardless of the home warranty plan you choose, always read the fine print and ask questions before committing. This way, you can be sure that your investment in your home is being properly protected.
What Is Not Covered Under Warranty?
While home warranty plans provide valuable protection for homeowners, they may not cover everything. Often, you will need a higher-level plan or a special add-on to cover certain items. Below are some items and situations that most warranties typically do not cover.
- Accidents due to improper maintenance. You will have to pay for any damage or malfunction caused by improper maintenance or lack of it. For example, if you don’t change your HVAC system filters regularly, the resulting problems will not be covered.
- Damage caused by self-repair. Repair or replacement costs will not be covered if you try to repair an item yourself and cause additional damage. Therefore, if you suspect something is wrong, you should always contact a professional.
- Pre-existing damage.
- Cosmetic problems. Cosmetic problems, such as chipped tiles or paint on a wall, are considered minor repairs and are not covered by standard warranties.
- Code violations. Your homeowner’s warranty policy does not cover damage caused by code violations, such as if you build an addition to your home without the proper permits.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Home Warranty Claims Process
Fileing a claim with your home warranty company doesn’t have to be overwhelming or complicated. You can follow the process below to get your issues resolved quickly.
Step 1: Contact Your Home Warranty Company
Contact your home warranty company online, by phone, or by email. Provide them with all the relevant details about your issue, such as when it occurred, what happened, and what may have caused it. They may also request photos or proof of purchase, depending on the company’s policy.
Step 2: Submit an Online Claim Form (If Required)
Some companies offer an online claim form that you must complete before they will accept your claim. This helps the company better understand the problem and can ultimately streamline the process for both parties. When filling out the form, read each field carefully before submitting it to make sure the information is complete and accurate.
Step 3: Await Confirmation of Your Claim
After submitting your claim, you will need to wait for confirmation that it has been accepted. Most companies aim to respond within 24 hours, but this can vary depending on the severity of the problem. If you don’t hear back within a day or two, please contact us; sometimes emails get lost.
Step 4: Check If You Need to Pay Service Fees
You will likely need to pay a service fee before any repairs can be made. Your home warranty company should provide clear instructions on how and when to make this payment. Ask questions to avoid misunderstandings later, and of course before the technician arrives at your home.
Step 5: Arrange for Repair or Replacement of the Item
Once your claim is approved, the repair or replacement will begin. Depending on where you live and the availability of parts and services in your area, this can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Many companies have a network of contractors they work with on site, but those contractors aren’t always reliable or approachable. Make sure you ask for updates throughout the process.
Home Warranty vs. Homeowners’ Insurance: Understanding the Difference
Homeowner’s insurance covers the cost of repairs due to fire, flood, lightning, wind, hail, theft, vandalism, and liability (if someone is injured on your premises). Specific covered items can include your roof, furniture, clothing, appliances, and more, as long as the damage is caused by a covered issue or natural event.
Home warranties typically cover the repair or replacement of major home appliances and systems, such as air conditioners, plumbing, and electrical wiring, due to normal wear and tear. For similar reasons, your home warranty may also cover major appliances, such as dishwashers, stoves, ovens, and refrigerators.
Both protect the value of your home, so it’s important to compare your home warranty and homeowner’s insurance when making a decision.
Additional Home Warranty Companies We Reviewed
More Home Warranty Companies We Reviewed
In addition to the top home warranty companies listed above, the following are also worth considering:
- Sears Home Warranty: Best Repair Warranty
- HSA Home Warranty: Best Warranty Without a Home Inspection
- Landmark Home Warranty: Best Pest Control Coverage
- HomeServe USA: Best Bundled Plans
- Amazon Home Warranty: Best One-Month Free Service
Bottom Line – Protect Your Investment with a Home Warranty
The 10 home warranty companies we recommend are: Choice Home Guarantee, Select Home Guarantee, American Home Shield, Home Guarantee of America, First American Home Guarantee, Home Service Club, ARW Home, Liberty Home Guard, First Premier, and 2-10 Guarantee for Home Buyers.
Home warranties can help homeowners save money on appliance and home system maintenance.
Some plans give you access to additional benefits, such as extended appliance protection, free HVAC service, and a network of certified and vetted technicians you can trust. These benefits alone make home warranties a good investment for many homeowners.
