Best Value
(9.5)
ARW Home
- Receive Guaranteed Coverage & Protection
- Request service 24/7
- Multiple Plans Available
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First American Home Warranty
- 30 Years of Experience
- Unlimited Service Calls
- Protection Guarantee
Smart Choice
(9.8)
Choice Home Warranty – Award-winning provider with comprehensive coverage
- Nationwide Network of more than 25,000 Contractors
- Handled over 6,600,000 service requests
- Covers over 2 million homes across America
- 24/7 Customer Support
(7.5)
Select Home Warranty – For excellent coverage at the lowest price
- Open A Claim 24/7
- Free Roof Coverage ($99 Value)
- AC, Heating, & Appliance Coverage
(9.5)
American Home Shield – Over 50 years of industry experience
- 2,000,000 Members
- Over $4 Billion in Paid Claims
- Coverage for up to 23 Home Items
Our Best Home Warranty Provider
Best Value
(9.8)
Choice Home Warranty - Award-winning provider with comprehensive coverage
- Nationwide Network of more than 25,000 Contractors
- Handled over 6,600,000 service requests
- Covers over 2 million homes across America
- 24/7 Customer Support
We’ve analyzed different Home Warranty Plans, so you can make an informed decision on the right Home Warranty Plan for you and your loved ones.
Home Warranties Explained
A home warranty is a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of many home appliances and systems that break down over time. Unlike homeowners’ insurance, which covers damages from events like fires or storms, a home warranty covers items that fail due to age or normal wear and tear.
What’s typically covered?
Home warranties typically cover the following, but you should carefully review your service contract to confirm what your provider will cover –
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Air Conditioning Systems -
Central Heating Systems
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Humidifiers
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Built-in Microwaves
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Water Heaters
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Other Major Appliances
When can you purchase a home warranty?
At the Time of Home Purchase
Securing Peace of Mind from the Start
- New Homeowners: A home warranty can be purchased during the home buying process, offering immediate coverage after closing.
- Seller’s Advantage: Sellers can include a home warranty in the sale, enhancing the property’s appeal to potential buyers.
When Moving into an Older Home
Extra Assurance for Aging Appliances
- Post-Purchase: If you’ve recently moved into an older home, a warranty can protect against unforeseen repairs of aging systems.
Renewing or Switching Policies
Continuous Coverage Is Key
- Annual Renewal: You can purchase or renew a home warranty annually to ensure ongoing protection.
- Policy Evaluation: Periodically review your warranty to decide if it’s time to renew or seek a new provider for better coverage.
How much does a home warranty typically cost?
Understanding Home Warranty Pricing
The Factors That Influence Cost
- Basic Coverage: Standard home warranty plans typically range from $300 to $600 annually, covering essential appliances and systems.
- Add-On Options: Additional coverage for items like pools or second refrigerators can increase the cost.
Service Fees Explained
Additional Costs to Consider
- Service Call Fee: Most warranties include a service call fee, usually between $75 and $125, payable when you request a repair.
Customizing Your Plan
Tailoring to Your Needs and Budget
- Flexible Options: Many providers offer various levels of coverage, allowing you to choose a plan that best suits your home’s specific needs and your financial plan.
The cost of a home warranty can vary based on coverage, add-ons, and service fees. Understanding these factors is crucial in choosing a plan that offers both protection and value.
How do you file a claim?
Understanding Your Coverage
Knowing What’s Included
- Review Your Policy: Familiarize yourself with the specifics of your home warranty coverage, including covered items and any exclusions.
Contacting Your Home Warranty Provider
Initiating the Claim
- Immediate Contact: As soon as an issue arises with a covered item, contact your home warranty provider either online or by phone to file a claim.
- Provide Details: Be prepared to describe the issue in detail and provide any necessary model numbers or documentation.
Scheduling a Service Appointment
Arranging for a Professional Assessment
- Service Technician Assignment: Your warranty provider will assign a service technician to assess and address the issue.
- Appointment Scheduling: Coordinate a suitable time for the technician’s visit.
Technician Assessment and Repair
The Repair Process
- Diagnosis: The technician will diagnose the problem during the visit and determine if it falls under your warranty coverage.
- Service Fee: Be prepared to pay the service call fee as outlined in your warranty agreement.
Repair or Replacement
Resolving the Issue
- Conducting Repairs: If the issue is covered, the technician will repair the item.
- Replacement: In cases where repair is not feasible, the warranty may cover a replacement.
Follow-Up and Feedback
After the Service
- Work Completion: Ensure that the repair or replacement is completed to your satisfaction.
- Provider Feedback: Some warranty companies may request feedback on your service experience.
Filing a home warranty claim involves understanding your coverage, promptly contacting your provider, and coordinating with a technician for repair or replacement. Remember, clear communication and understanding your policy are key to a smooth claim process.
Our Top 3 Picks
Best for – Homeowners seeking affordable coverage
Basic Plan Annual Cost (Single Family Home) – $517.13
Total Plan Annual Cost (Single Family Home) – $623.76
Service Requests – Contact within four-hours.
Choose between their Basic Plan and Total Plan to receive up to $3,000 in coverage for each successful claim.
Basic Plan
- Heating System
- Electrical System
- Plumbing System
- Plumbing Stoppage
- Water Heater
- Whirlpool Bathtub
- Oven / Range / Stove
- Cooktop
- Dishwasher
- Built-In Microwave
- Garbage Disposal
- Ductwork
- Garage Door Opener
- Ceiling and Exhaust Fans
Total Plan
The Total Plan includes the above coverage, plus;
- Air Conditioning System
- Refrigerator
- Clothes Washer
- Clothes Dryer
Optional Coverage
- Pool / Spa
- Limited Roof Leak
- Additional Spa
- Stand Alone Freezer
- Central Vacuum
Pros
30-Day Guarantee on Service Requests
24/7 Claim Support
CONS
$3,000 Limit per Covered Item
Best for – Transparency
Average annual premium – $719.88 – $1,319,88
Service requests – 24/7 online and by phone
American Home Shield is the largest company in the US home warranty market, with over two million members as of January 2024.
ShieldSilver
- Air Conditioners
- Heating Units
- Ductwork
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Built-in Exhaust Fans
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Main Breaker/Fuse Panel Box
- Doorbells
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Interior Electrical Lines
- Ceiling Fans
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Garage Door Openers
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Water Heaters
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Interior Plumbing Lines
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Toilets
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Faucets & Valves
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Built-in Jetted Tub Motors, Pumps, and Air Switch Assemblies
ShieldGold
The ShieldGold Plan includes the above coverage, plus;
- Refrigerators
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Ranges / Cooktops
- Ovens
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Dishwashers
-
Built-in Microwaves
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Garbage Disposals
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Installed Instant Hot/Cold Water Dispensers
ShieldPlatinum
The ShieldPlatinum Plan includes the above coverage, plus;
- Roof Leak Repair
Optional Add-Ons
- Electronics Protection Plan
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Pool & Built-in Spa Equipment
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Guest Unit
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Septic Pump
-
Well Pump
Pros
Multiple Customizable Plans
Covers older items, no matter their age
CONS
$100 – $125 Service Fee
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