When selecting a home warranty provider, it’s important to carefully compare the options available, especially when looking at major players like American Home Shield (AHS) and Liberty Home Guard (LHG).
Both companies offer comprehensive home warranty services that help protect homeowners from unexpected repair costs, but they differ in several key areas. This post will break down the similarities and differences between AHS and LHG to help homeowners like you make an informed decision.
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Pricing and Plans
American Home Shield offers three primary plans: Systems Plan, Appliances Plan, and a Combo Plan that combines the two. Their pricing generally starts around $39.99 per month, but this can vary based on the deductible and the level of coverage selected.
On the other hand, Liberty Home Guard also offers tiered plans, including Systems Guard, Appliance Guard, and the Total Home Guard plan, which combines both systems and appliances coverage. LHG’s pricing starts as low as $1 per day, making it one of the most affordable options available. Additionally, LHG provides a wide range of customization options, allowing homeowners to add coverage for specialty items such as electronics, septic tanks, and even pest control.
Coverage Options
Both companies offer extensive coverage, but there are notable differences in their offerings.
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American Home Shield typically covers common systems like HVAC, plumbing, and electrical, along with kitchen appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and microwaves.
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Liberty Home Guard, however, provides a slightly more extensive range of coverage. Their Total Home Guard plan is their most comprehensive, covering all major appliances and systems, including garage door openers and ceiling fans, which are often excluded by competitors. Liberty also offers more add-ons than AHS, with coverage options like gutter cleaning, rekeying services, and electronics protection.
Customer Service and Reviews
Customer satisfaction is a crucial factor when choosing a home warranty provider, and both AHS and LHG have solid reputations.
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American Home Shield has mixed reviews. While some customers praise its extensive network and coverage options, others report frustration with slow service and poor claims resolution.
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Liberty Home Guard, in contrast, is known for outstanding customer service. The company consistently earns high ratings, with Forbes, USA Today, and Nerdwallet all recognizing LHG as a top provider. With an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 14,000 reviews, Liberty is favored for its easy claims process and quick response times.
Claims Process and Service Call Fees
When an appliance or system breaks down, the claims process is a key part of the service. Both AHS and LHG allow homeowners to file claims online or over the phone, but Liberty Home Guard stands out for its streamlined process. LHG aims to dispatch a technician within 24-48 hours, and their service call fee is competitive, typically ranging from $60 to $75.
AHS, on the other hand, has faced criticism for delays in service and longer wait times for technician dispatch. Additionally, AHS's service call fees can vary based on the plan, typically starting around $75.
Flexibility and Customization
Liberty Home Guard excels in flexibility. Their plans are more customizable, offering a wider variety of add-ons and coverage options. Whether you need septic tank coverage or want to protect your electronics, LHG can tailor a plan that meets your specific needs. This level of customization is a major advantage for homeowners with unique requirements.
In contrast, AHS is more traditional in its coverage structure, offering fewer customization options. While their plans are still robust, homeowners looking for specific coverage options may find LHG to be a better fit.
Reputation and Industry Recognition
Liberty Home Guard has quickly established itself as a leader in the home warranty space, earning top accolades from trusted industry sources. The company was ranked the best home warranty four years in a row by U.S. News, and they received the Best Value and Best Overall rankings from publications like Forbes and Nerdwallet. Their commitment to customer satisfaction and comprehensive coverage has made them a top choice for homeowners seeking a reliable home warranty provider.
While American Home Shield is an industry veteran, it has faced more mixed reviews in recent years. The company’s long-standing presence in the market speaks to its stability, but its reputation for slow service and high fees has led many homeowners to look for alternatives.
So, should you buy a home warranty from AHS or LHG?
Choosing between American Home Shield and Liberty Home Guard ultimately depends on your specific needs as a homeowner. If you're looking for a provider that offers affordable pricing, wide-ranging coverage, and outstanding customer service, Liberty Home Guard is likely your best bet. Their Total Home Guard plan provides comprehensive protection for both home systems and appliances, and their flexible coverage options ensure that homeowners can get exactly what they need without paying for unnecessary add-ons.
While American Home Shield offers reliable coverage, homeowners who value customization, affordable pricing, and top-tier customer satisfaction may find Liberty Home Guard to be the superior choice. With its reputation for excellence, LHG stands out as a solid option in today’s competitive home warranty market.
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