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Is It Worth Having a Home Warranty?

What is a home warranty? Are home warranties worth it? What does a home warranty cover? Scroll down to read our home warranty company reviews, and get the answers to these questions.

Last Updated: August 20, 2024
#1
Our Partner

🔥 SALE: $150 OFF + 2 Months Free

  • Trusted by Forbes, NerdWallet & MarketWatch
  • Coverage for HVAC Systems & Home Appliances
  • Free Roof Leak Coverage & Multi-Year Discount 
  • Flexible: No Home Inspection Required
  • Hassle-Free Claims Online or by Phone

Click here to get a Free Instant Quote from Select

#2
Our Partner

Save Big! $50 Off + 1 Month Free

  • Nationwide Network of 25,000+ Local Contractors
  • Over 6,600,000 Service Requests Handled
  • Protecting Over 2,000,000 Homes Across the USA
  • 24/7 Call Centers for Customer Support
#3
Our Partner

Limited Time Offer: 50% OFF Select Plans

  • Covering 2 Million Plus Members for 50+ Years
  • No Age Limits On Covered Systems & Appliances
  • Free HVAC Tune-up With ShieldPlatinum™
  • Coverage for Code Violations & Permits 
#4
Our Partner

Best Home Warranty for Broad Coverage

  • Get $100 Off with Code PROTECT
  • $213 Million Saved By Homeowners in Repairs
  • Covers Up to $3,500 Per Home Appliance
  • Filing a Claim Does Not Increase Your Rate
#5
Our Partner
  • Fall Sale: $250 Off + Free Roof Leak Coverage
  • Covers HVAC, Plumbing, Appliances & more
  • Unique Member Benefits & Discounts
  • Guarantees Repairs for Life of Plan
#6
Our Partner
  • $200 Off + 2 Months Free + Free Roof Coverage
  • Fastest Turnaround Time In the Industry
  • All Technicians are Licensed & Pre Screened
  • Highest Renewal Rate in the Industry
     
#7
Our Partner
  • Named Best Coverage Plans by U.S. News
  • Get $150 Off On New Plan
  • Backed by 90-day Parts & Labor Warranty
  • Free Price Quote, No Cancellation Fees
#8
Our Partner
  • Founded by Pro Contractor & TV Host, Mike Holmes
  • Trusted by Over 2 Million Households
  • Video Chat With a Certified Technician
  • 5-Star Rating & Background Checked Technicians

Best Overall
Our Partner

🔥 SALE: $150 OFF + 2 Months Free

  • Trusted by Forbes, NerdWallet & MarketWatch
  • Coverage for HVAC Systems & Home Appliances
  • Free Roof Leak Coverage & Multi-Year Discount 
  • Flexible: No Home Inspection Required
  • Hassle-Free Claims Online or by Phone

Click here to get a Free Instant Quote from Select

 

What is a Home Warranty?

A home warranty is a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of major home systems and appliances due to normal wear and tear. It provides financial protection and peace of mind by handling unexpected breakdowns, typically through a network of qualified service technicians.

 

How to Choose the Best Home Warranty Company?

When you're choosing between the best home warranty companies, focus on getting coverage that fits your needs, covering the essential systems and appliances in your home. Compare home warranty companies and make sure the pricing is clear, with no hidden costs, and that they offer a smooth and reliable claims process. It's important to choose a company with a solid network of service providers and good customer reviews. Look for flexible home warranty plans and excellent customer service, and always check the terms and conditions, including any limits or exclusions, so there are no surprises down the road.

 

Best Home Warranty Plans

The best home warranty plans offer comprehensive coverage, affordable pricing, and reliable service. Look for plans that cover major systems and appliances, including a HVAC warranty, plumbing, and electrical, with flexible options to customize based on your needs. The best home warranty insurance plans typically include transparent terms, a straightforward claims process, and access to a large network of qualified service technicians. 

 

What is a Home Appliance Warranty?

A home appliance warranty is a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of your household appliances if they break down due to normal wear and tear. This type of warranty typically applies to major appliances like refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, and washing machines. Unlike homeowners insurance, which covers damage from events like fires or floods, home appliance insurance specifically focuses on mechanical failures and general wear of appliances.

 

Home Warranty That Covers HVAC

When shopping for a home warranties that cover HVAC systems, you should review the following:

  • Comprehensive HVAC Warranty: Ensure the plan includes both heating and cooling components, such as furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, and ductwork.
  • Coverage Limits: Check the maximum payout limits for HVAC repairs or replacements to ensure they are sufficient for your needs.
  • Service Fees and Deductibles: Understand the service call fees of the HVAC warranty and any deductibles you’ll need to pay per claim.
  • Claims Process: Look for a company with a straightforward, efficient claims process and a strong network of qualified HVAC technicians.
  • Exclusions and Fine Print: Carefully review the contract for any exclusions in the HVAC home warranty, like pre-existing conditions or maintenance neglect, which could impact your coverage.
  • Customer Reviews and Reputation: Research customer feedback specifically related to HVAC claims to gauge the company’s reliability and service quality.

 

Is it Worth Having a Home Warranty?

A homeowners warranty is a smart investment for homeowners who want peace of mind and protection against the high costs of unexpected repairs. Home warranties cover essential systems and appliances, ensuring that when something breaks down, you’re not left with a hefty repair bill. Especially valuable for older homes, a home warranty offers a convenient, cost-effective solution that keeps your home running smoothly. 

 

Home Warranty for Sellers

Home warranties for sellers are service contracts that provide coverage for the repair or replacement of major home systems and appliances during the period the home is on the market. Home warranties for sellers offer several advantages:

  • Attractive Selling Point: Offering a home warranty can make your property more appealing to potential buyers, as it provides them with peace of mind knowing they’re protected against unexpected repair costs after the sale.
  • Coverage During Listing Period: The warranty typically covers the home’s systems and appliances while it’s listed for sale, ensuring that any breakdowns or repairs needed during this time are covered, helping to avoid last-minute repair negotiations.
  • Transferability: Most seller home warranties can be transferred to the buyer at closing, giving them coverage for a specified period (usually a year) after the purchase, which can further ease their concerns and potentially speed up the sale.
  • Cost-Effective: The cost of a seller’s home warranty is usually a fraction of the price of unexpected repairs, making it a cost-effective way to protect your investment and smooth the selling process.

Read our home warranty companies reviews below to compare plans, coverage and pick the best home warranty for your needs.


Select Home Warranty

🏆 Best for Budget-Conscious Homeowners

 

Company Overview
Founded in 2012, Select Home Warranty provides home warranty services across the United States, focusing on protecting homeowners from unexpected repair costs.

Plans, Pricing & Coverage
Select Home Warranty offers three primary plans: the Bronze Care, Gold Care, and Platinum Care. The Bronze Care Plan covers home appliances, the Gold Care Plan covers major systems, and the Platinum Care Plan combines both for extensive coverage. Pricing is competitive, with monthly premiums starting around $60, depending on the plan and location. They also offer optional add-ons for items like pools, well pumps, and roof leaks, allowing homeowners to tailor their coverage.

Customer Service
Customer service at Select Home Warranty is available 24/7, with a straightforward claims process that can be initiated online or by phone. They work with a large network of licensed, insured contractors to ensure timely repairs. Service fees per claim are typically around $75, which is lower than many competitors, making it more affordable for homeowners when service is needed.


Choice Home Warranty

🏅Best for Higher Maximum Payouts

 

Company Overview
Choice Home Warranty, established in 2008, is a prominent provider of home warranty services across the US. The company aims to protect homeowners from the financial burden of unexpected repairs on major home systems and appliances. 

Plans, Pricing & Coverage
Choice Home Warranty offers two primary plans: the Basic Plan and the Total Plan. The Basic Plan covers essential systems and appliances like plumbing, electrical systems, and water heaters. The Total Plan provides more comprehensive coverage, including air conditioning, refrigerators, and clothes washers/dryers. Pricing is competitive, with plans starting around $55 per month, depending on location and coverage options. Optional add-ons are available for items like pools, septic systems, and well pumps, allowing homeowners to customize their protection.

Customer Service
Customer service at Choice Home Warranty is available 24/7, ensuring that claims can be filed anytime, day or night. The company works with a network of licensed, insured contractors to deliver prompt and efficient repairs. The service fee per claim typically ranges from $85 to $125, which is standard in the industry.


American Home Shield

🏅Best for Customizable Coverage

 

Company Overview:
American Home Shield (AHS) is a trusted home warranty provider with over 50 years of experience, offering protection for home systems and appliances. AHS has built a reputation for reliability and a vast network of qualified contractors.

Plans, Pricing & Coverage:
AHS offers three main plans: ShieldSilver™ (covers home systems), ShieldGold™ (covers systems and appliances), and ShieldPlatinum™ (adds roof leak protection and higher coverage limits). Pricing is based on location, plan choice, and service fees, which range from $100 to $125 per service call.

Customer Service:
American Home Shield provides 24/7 customer support and a user-friendly online portal for managing claims. They offer a 30-day workmanship guarantee on repairs, ensuring homeowners receive quality service. While AHS is generally praised for its efficient service, some customers have reported occasional delays in contractor availability.

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