Your Ultimate Guide to Home Warranties
Our top 3 home warranty picks
A home warranty is an affordable and convenient way to maintain and repair major home appliances and systems. Unlike homeowner’s insurance, a home warranty will cover the cost to repair home equipment that fails after years of normal wear and tear. But with so many home warranty providers, each with a variety of coverage options, how can you find the right plan for you and your home?
Taupe Home’s comprehensive guide to home warranties provides all the information you need, so you will have thorough home protection at a reasonable cost.
- $200 Off + 2 months free + roof leak protection
- Plans starting at $1/day with no commitment
- 24/7 claims support with dedicated account management
- Licensed & registered by state regulators
- Customer portal for 24/7 management of your account
- Save up to 40% on home warranty quotes
- Protect more and pay less
- 97.5% claims paid
- 6M+ homes covered
- Covers improperly installed or maintained systems and appliances
- Affordable basic plan options with competitive coverage
- Unlimited service calls
What is a home warranty?
A home warranty—also known as home appliance insurance or home repair insurance—is a service agreement that homeowners can purchase from a home warranty company to help cover the unexpected cost of repairing or replacing faulty systems and appliances.
The home warranty plan chosen by the homeowner determines the monthly cost, service fee, which systems and appliances are covered, and how much the company will pay for repairs and replacements. Most plans last for 12 months. At the end of the contract term, customers can renew their plan.
How does a home warranty work?
If one of your covered household items breaks unexpectedly, file a claim with your home warranty company either online or over the phone. Note: Most companies require customers to submit a claim within three days of the system or appliance breaking. The best home warranties are open 24/7/365 and approve claims within 24 to 48 hours, but other companies will make customers wait up to four days on weekends and holidays.
Once your claim is approved by the home warranty company, they’ll either send one of their approved technicians to your house to diagnose the issue or allow you to choose your own contractor for repairs. The contractor will recommend a repair or replacement for your broken system or appliance.
During this service visit, you’ll pay the contractor a service fee of $75–$100 and the warranty company will cover the rest of the repair or replacement costs.
How to choose the best plan for your needs.
When shopping around for a home warranty plan, you’ll want to consider the items you want covered and your budget.
1. Consider what coverage you need. Think about which items in your home you want coverage for. Are there certain systems or appliances that you couldn’t afford to replace? Make sure that those are included when choosing a plan.
2. Choose a monthly price you’re comfortable with. If you pay monthly for a home warranty instead of paying an annual premium, you’ll likely be paying anywhere from $25–$67 for each month of coverage. You’ll also want to check the service fees, usually costing from $75–$125, and is paid to the technician who comes to your home when a claim is approved. Choose a price point that makes sense for you to narrow down your options.
Are home warranties worth it?
A Home Warranty is worth it to you if it covers your home’s needs. Everyone and every homeowner is different, so picking the right home warranty is all about finding the right fit. Much like when buying a home, you will want to look around before purchasing your first home warranty. Depending on the size of your home, the State you're in and how you want to process future claims should have a big impact on your decision. Always ensure that you purchase from a Home Warranty company that is licensed to operate in your State.
A good Home Warranty will offer you the added benefit of peace of mind. It’s hard to put a figure on not worrying about the potential cost of a certain appliance breaking down, but with the right home warranty, you can be at ease, knowing that your appliances, systems, or both, are covered.
“In 2021 and 2022, 40% of Americans did not have capital to cover an unexpected $1000 bill. To us, $30 a month seems like a safe bet in comparison. ”
Advice from the Industry Experts
Our advice is to always read and understand the contract you are signing. Your Home Warranty is a service contract that you take out with the company so that, in the event that something breaks down that is covered in the contract, it will be repaired or replaced. With this said, it is of paramount importance to read and understand the details of any contract you sign. What’s good for you, might not be the best solution for another.
Another tip from us is to speak with the companies before making a decision. Yes, your home warranty is a service contract, but at the end of the day, someone needs to provide the service. Customer support and claims processing are an integral part of the home warranty experience. Making a few calls before committing is the smart thing to do.
Liberty Home Guard
Liberty Home Guard is a national home warranty company that currently operates in 48 states, the only exceptions being Wisconsin and Washington.
Liberty Home Guard offers three different protection plans, one for home systems, one for appliances and one that combines the two. Additionally, Liberty Home Guard offers an impressively wide list of optional add-on services; you can customize your plan to fit your property and your needs exactly. The company's plans are provided at various price points depending on the service fee or deductible amount, which is between $65 and $125 per claim.
| Rating |
|
| Monthly Premium | $40 - $60 |
| Service Fee | $65 - $125 |
| BBB Rating | A+ |
| Total Reviews | 5 |
Why we choose it:
Liberty Home Guard Warranty is one of the top home warranty providers in the industry, providing comprehensive plans at competitive pricing. It does not deny coverage based on the age of your home or covered items as long as you’ve taken good care of them, making the company a great choice for older homes.
Plans and pricing:
Total Home Guard ($75.99 per month): Covers air conditioning, heating, electrical, plumbing/plumbing stoppages, water heaters, refrigerators, ovens/ranges/cooktops, dishwashers, built-in microwaves, garbage disposals, clothes washers and dryers, ductwork, garage door openers, ceiling and exhaust fans.
Systems Guard ($69.99 per month): Covers air conditioning, heating, electrical, plumbing/plumbing stoppages, water heaters, ductwork.
Appliance Guard ($63.99 per month): Covers clothes washers and dryers, refrigrators, built-in microwaves, dishwashers, garbage disposals, ranges/ovens/cooktops, ceiling and exhaust fans, garage door openers.
"I'm really happy with them. I've had them for the past two years, and they've covered the last 4 claims and saved me thousands of dollars."
"Amazing service. Best home warranty company I've ever worked with."
2-10 Home Buyers Warranty
2-10 Home Buyers Warranty has been in business for more than 40 years. The company is licensed to operate throughout the continental United States, Washington, D.C., included. 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty does not serve homeowners in Hawaii and Alaska. Like other providers, 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty offers a suite of optional add-ons. The company holds a B+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
| Rating |
|
| Monthly Premium | $22 - $60 |
| Service Fee | $85 |
| BBB Rating | B |
| Total Reviews | 3 |
Why we choose it:
2-10 Home Buyers Warranty makes an effort to cater to homeowners in different circumstances The company provides warranty services to homeowners building a new home from the ground up. It also provides plans that are tailored to established residents, new home buyers, home sellers, and real estate agents.
Plans and pricing:
Simply Kitchen ($39.75 per month): Covers built-in microwaves, dishwashers, ranges, ovens, cooktops, and refrigerators.
Complete Home ($39.00 per month): This second-tier plan upgrades coverage to include plumbing, electrical, and heating and cooling systems. 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty cites the Complete Home plan as the most popular with Homeowners.
Pinnacle Home ($54.00 per month): This plan upgrades coverage to also include washer and dryer protection. It also includes more expansive appliance and system coverage, protecting fixtures and components that the cheaper plans do not cover.
The Provider offers a Luxury Package as well, which increases the coverage limit for appliances and heating and cooling systems to $5,000.
Service fee: $85
"Super easy to submit a claim with them and they've covered my past two."
"They sent a contractor out to my house quickly. I did have to pay out of pocket a lot of money on the repair but the did save me $100."
First American Home Warranty
First American Home Warranty has served homeowners since 1984. The company's services are limited to selected states and they are currently not licensed to operate in much of the Northeast and Midwest. First American Home Warranty plans are comparable to those of its competitors. Customers can upgrade their First American Home Warranty coverage to include additional appliances, systems, and services. First American currently has a B rating from the Better Business Bureau.
| Rating |
|
| Monthly Premium | $36 - $38 |
| Service Fee | $85 |
| BBB Rating | B |
| Total Reviews | 5 |
Why we choose it:
The First American Home Warranty claims process is straightforward. If a covered item fails or requires service, customers can submit a claim online or over the phone. The company maintains customer operations 24 hours per day. 365 days per year. First American Home Warranty will arrange for a licensed provider to diagnose the issue and repair or replace the equipment as appropriate.
Plans and pricing:
Basic Plan ($37.92 per month): Covers refrigerators, washers, dryers, ovens, cooktops, ranges, built-in microwaves, trash compactors, exhaust fans, and dishwashers.
Premier Plan ($52.50 per month): Expands coverage to include plumbing, electrical heating, water heaters, central vacuums, and a few other select items.
Service fee: $85.00
"I've had First American for a year in the past. They gave me a good discount for my renewal and they gave me a better policy with higher caps this year."
"Got the policy from my realtor. I'm happy with the coverage so far."
Compare Home Warranties at a Glance
You should consider a number of factors when shopping for the right home warranty. Most importantly you should review customer feedback on objective review platforms such as Google, the BBB, and of course taupehome.com! Additionally, you should always ensure that a home warranty company has the required licenses for the states it does business in, even if those states are not where your property resides. Visit each provider’s review page for more in-depth information.
Liberty Home Guard
Liberty Home Guard is among the highest-rated home warranty companies in the United States. Though a newer entrant in the home warranty space, the company has quickly become a worthy competitor by offering a wide array of services at reasonable costs.
Here are some key takeaways about Liberty Home Guard and its business practices:
 |
Liberty Home Guard maintains low costs on replacement parts and appliances by negotiating volume discounts from manufacturers and wholesale vendors. |
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Liberty Home Guard invests heavily in technology to streamline and expedite every step in the claims process. |
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Liberty Home Guard has forged lasting partnerships with contractors and technicians nationwide and, unlike other companies, pays vendors in full to incentivize thorough and careful service. |
Liberty Home Guard provides coverage options for all standard home appliances and systems. Notably, the company also offers optional coverage for a suite of nonstandard appliances and home services.
Base plans include Systems Guard, Appliance Guard, and Total Home Guard. The Systems Guard plan encompasses plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and water heater coverage. The Appliance Guard plan covers washers and dryers, refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, ranges, cooktops, built-in microwaves, garbage disposals, ceiling and exhaust fans, and garage door openers. The Total Home Guard plan combines the Systems Guard and Appliance Guard plans.
Homeowners can customize these base plans by adding coverage for virtually any other home appliance or system. Common coverage additions include sprinkler systems, central vacuum systems, sump pumps and well pumps, home electronics, pool equipment, generators, and plumbing and lighting fixtures. There are also options for home services, such as gutter cleaning, pest control, carpet cleaning, and rekeying.
For a younger company relative to many of its competitors, Liberty Home Guard has remarkable reach. It offers services to homeowners in almost every state. Liberty Home Guard has robust realtor offerings as well, and partnered agents have exclusive access to Liberty Home Guard's Realtors Portal for client and invoice management, communication, claims services, and more.
Liberty Home Guard makes it a priority to satisfy its clients, and it shows. The company has thousands of glowing reviews on Google and other consumer-focused sites. Consumer Affairs, the Better Business Bureau, and other watchdogs routinely assign Liberty Home Guard high marks. American homeowners are hard-pressed to find stronger home warranty services.
What's Covered?
| Covered Items | Systems Guard | Total Home Guard | Appliance Guard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Conditioning | Yes | Yes | No |
| Heating | Yes | Yes | No |
| Ductwork | Yes | Yes | No |
| Plumbing | Yes | Yes | No |
| Electrical | Yes | Yes | No |
| Water Heaters | Yes | Yes | No |
| Clothes Washer | No | Yes | Yes |
| Clothes Dryer | No | Yes | Yes |
| Refrigerator | No | Yes | Yes |
| Built-In Microwave Ovens | No | Yes | Yes |
| Dishwashers | No | Yes | Yes |
| Garbage Disposals | No | Yes | Yes |
| Ranges/Ovens/Cooktops | No | Yes | Yes |
| Ceilling and Exhaust Fans | No | Yes | Yes |
| Garage Door Openers | No | Yes | Yes |
2-10 Home Buyers Warranty
A Service Agreement can protect your home and your budget from unexpected costs
2-10 Home Buyers Warranty has been in business for more than 40 years. The company is licensed to operate throughout the continental United States, Washington, D.C., included. 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty does not serve homeowners in Alaska or Hawaii.
2-10 Home Buyers Warranty plans to support a range of coverage for standard home appliances and systems. The cheapest plan, Simply Kitchen, costs $19 per month and covers built-in microwaves, dishwashers, ranges, ovens, cooktops, and refrigerators. The second-tier plan, Complete Home, upgrades coverage to include plumbing, electrical, and heating and cooling systems. The Pinnacle Home plan adds washer and dryer protection. It also includes more expansive appliance and system coverage, protecting fixtures and components that the cheaper plans do not cover. 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty cites the Complete Home plan as the most popular with homeowners.
Like other providers, 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty offers a suite of optional add-ons. The provider offers a Luxury Package as well, which increases the coverage limit for appliances and heating and cooling systems to $5,000.
2-10 Home Buyers Warranty makes an effort to cater to homeowners in different circumstances. The company provides warranty services to homeowners building a new home from the ground up. It also provides plans that are tailored to established residents, new home buyers, home sellers, and real estate agents.
2-10 Home Buyers Warranty reviews are somewhat mixed. Some customers are satisfied with their service, but others complain of long wait times, a confusing claims process, poor communication, and service call fees that are higher than those of other providers. The company currently holds a B+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Consumers are advised to research authentic reviews from a variety of trustworthy sources before agreeing to a home warranty plan from any service provider.
What's Covered?
| Covered Items | Pinnacle Home | Complete Home | Simply Kitchen |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heating-One (1) centrally ducted gas or electric system | Yes | Yes | No |
| Heating-Thermostats – all types | Yes | Yes | No |
| Heating-Interior gas supply lines | Yes | Yes | No |
| Cooling-One (1) centrally ducted gas or electric system | Yes | Yes | No |
| Cooling-Thermostats – all types | Yes | Yes | No |
| Cooling-Interior gas supply lines | Yes | Yes | No |
| Built-in Microwave | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Dishwasher | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Range | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Oven | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Cooktop | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Refrigerator with Ice Maker/ Crusher and Beverage Dispenser | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Washer & Dryers- All components, excepts those excluded | Yes | No | No |
| Plumbing- Water, drain, waste, and vent pipe leaks or breaks | Yes | Yes | No |
| Plumbing- Gas and electric water heaters; tankless, power, and direct vent units | Yes | Yes | No |
| Plumbing- Water heater interior gas supply lines | Yes | Yes | No |
| Plumbing- Toilet tank, bowl, tank assembly parts, flange, and wax ring seal | Yes | Yes | No |
| Plumbing- Drain line stoppages that can be cleared with a standard sewer cable | Yes | Yes | No |
| Plumbing- Primary, permanently installed sump pumps used for ground water | Yes | Yes | No |
| Plumbing- Pressure regulators | Yes | Yes | No |
| Plumbing- Valves: shower, tub, diverter, risers, angle stops, and gate valve | Yes | Yes | No |
| Electrical- Electrical wiring | Yes | Yes | No |
| Electrical- Switches | Yes | Yes | No |
| Electrical- Outlets | Yes | Yes | No |
| Electrical- Panels | Yes | Yes | No |
| Electrical- Doorbell system | Yes | Yes | No |
| Supreme- Appliances: Handles, hinges, clocks, racks, shelves, baskets, rollers, knobs, dials, latch assemblies, springs, interior lining, turntable platforms, rotisseries, glass/ceramic cooktops, self-cleaning mechanisms when they affect primary function, Haul away/disposal fees | Yes | No | No |
| Supreme-Heating: Crane cost, Filters, Haul away/disposal fees | Yes | No | No |
| Supreme-Cooling: Crane cost, Filters, Refrigerant recovery and recharge, Electrical cut-off switches, Haul away/disposal fees | Yes | No | No |
| Supreme-Plumbing: Faucets, faucet handles, shower heads, arms, and tub spouts, Interior hose bibbs, Exterior hose bibbs, Polybutylene and PEX manifold plumbing system, Concrete encased or concealed water, gas, drain, waste, and vent piping leaks or breaks in the plumbing system, Haul away/disposal fees | Yes | No | No |
| Supreme-Electrical: Burglar alarm system, Fire alarm system, Attic and bathroom exhaust fans, Haul away/disposal fees, Concrete encased or concealed wiring | Yes | No | No |
First American Home Warranty
Relax and enjoy your home with a First American home warranty.
First American Home Warranty has served homeowners since 1984. The company's services are limited to select states. First American Home Warranty is not currently licensed to operate in much of the Northeast and Midwest.
First American Home Warranty plans are comparable to those of its competitors. The Basic Plan covers common kitchen and laundry appliances: dishwashers, refrigerators, ovens, cooktops, ranges, built-in microwaves, trash compactors, exhaust fans, washing machines, and dryers. The Premier Plan expands coverage to include plumbing, electrical, heating, water heaters, central vacuums, and a few other select items.
Customers can upgrade their First American Home Warranty coverage to include additional appliances, systems, and services, including central air conditioning, HVAC tune-ups, pool and spa equipment, and septic tank pumping. Note that the specifics of coverage options may vary by location.
The First American Home Warranty claims process is straightforward. If a covered item fails or requires service, customers can submit a claim online or over the phone. The company maintains customer operations 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. First American Home Warranty will arrange for a licensed provider to diagnose the issue and repair or replace the equipment as appropriate.
First American Home Warranty reviews tend to be mixed. Many customers are satisfied with the ease of the claims process and resolution of the equipment failures. Other customers, however, complain of delayed service, prematurely closed claims, limited coverage, and a confusing policy cancellation process. First American Home Warranty has a B rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Homeowners should be aware of what a First American Home Warranty plan is unlikely to cover. The company is upfront about not covering cosmetic defects, equipment modifications, and structural modifications. Customers should also not expect to be reimbursed for updating an appliance or system to bring it up to code.
What's Covered?
| Covered Items | Basic Plan | Value Plan * | Eagle Premier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heating | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Ductwork | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Electrical Systems | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Garage Door Openers | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Attic, Ceiling and Exhaust Fans | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Central Vacuum System | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Plumbing System includes polybutylene piping | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Plumbing Stoppages | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Toilet Tanks and Bowls | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Water Heater | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Circulating Pump | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Sump Pump | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Pressure Regulators | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in Microwave | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Dishwasher | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Oven / Range / Cooktop | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Garbage Disposal | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Instant Hot Water Dispenser | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Trash Compactor | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Re-Key Service | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Central Air Conditioning | No | Yes | Yes |
| Clothes Washer and Dryer | No | No | Yes |
| Kitchen Refrigerator | No | No | Yes |
| First Class Upgrade | No | Yes | Yes |
Old Republic Insurance Group
Uncompromising Home Warranty Protection because home is where the heart is.
Old Republic Home Protection is a reputable home warranty provider, though its reach is more limited than many of its competitors. Old Republic Home Protection has offered warranty coverage to homeowners in California since 1974. The company started to expand to other states in 1995 but still does not serve much of the Northeast and Midwest.
Eligible homeowners can select from a variety of Old Republic Home Protection home warranty plans. Standard coverage provides protection for major home systems and kitchen and laundry appliances. Base plans also include rekey services and coverage for central vacuums and garage door openers. The Ultimate Protection plan upgrades coverage to include plumbing fixtures and additional appliances and components. The Platinum Protection plan includes further benefits, such as higher coverage limits and money to offset the cost of modifying or relocating home systems.
Like other warranty providers, Old Republic Home Protection offers additional coverage. For an added cost, homeowners can receive coverage for outdoor kitchens, ornamental fountains, slab leaks, roof leaks, and more. The company also offers a Tech Protect plan for electronics coverage and a Smart Home Protect plan for digital locks, home controllers, cameras, and other smart home devices.
Important to note is that Old Republic Home Protection's services differ for home buyers and home sellers. While much of the provider's coverage applies to all homeowners, some coverage is limited to only buyers or only sellers.
Old Republic Home Protection reviews are good. Some customers cite frustrations with the company's customer service and the inability to pay for a plan by month. Some reviewers criticize the fact that Old Republic Home Protection is available in only 23 states. Reviews are otherwise favorable, however. The company has sustained an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for many years.
What's Covered?
| Covered Items | Essential | Standard | Ultimate | Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heating System | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Air Conditioner/Cooler | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Ductwork | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Drain Line Stoppages | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Plumbing Pipe Leaks (including polybutylene) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Water Heater | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in Jetted Bathtub Motor & Pump | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Recirculating Pump | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Instant Hot/Cold Water Dispenser | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Garbage Disposal | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Water Pressure Regulator | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Sump Pump | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Electrical System | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Exhaust, Attic, Ceiling, Whole House Fans | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Garage Door Opener | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Central Vacuum | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Rekey Service | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Dishwasher | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Trash Compactor | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Kitchen Exhaust Fan | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Oven/Range/Cooktop | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in Microwave Oven | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Washer/Dryer/Kitchen Refrigerator | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Ultimate Enhancements | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Refrigerant Recapture, Reclaim, & Disposal | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Code Upgrades | Permits | Haul Away | Cranes | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Mismatched Systems | Improper Installation | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Increased Coverage for Plumbing Items & Stoppages | No | No | No | Yes |
| Increased Coverage for Manufacturer's Warranty | No | No | No | Yes |
| Modifications (with additional code upgrades) | No | No | No | Yes |
| Increased Coverage for Zone Controls and Specific HVAC Systems | No | No | No | Yes |
American Home Shield
Home Warranty Costs Coverage that fit your budget. Plans that fit your life.
American Home Shield is a longstanding provider of home warranty services. The company has steadily expanded over 50 years and now boasts more than two million members nationwide.
American Home Shields offerings are standard for the industry, with a breadth of coverage that includes 23 different home appliances and systems. Homeowners can choose among three predefined plans ShieldSilver, ShieldGold. and ShieldPlatinum.
ShieldSilver, the least expensive plan, covers 14 home systems, including plumbing, electrical, and heating and cooling systems ShieldGold features this same coverage but also includes protection for nine kitchen and laundry appliances. ShieldPlatinum has the most robust coverage. Homeowners get all the benefits of ShieldGold and also receive coverage for roof leaks, HVAC tune-ups. refrigerant, and local code violations.
American Home Shield offers some plan add-ons. though not as many as other home warranty providers, such as Liberty Home Guard. Homeowners signing on with American Home Shield can customize their policies to include coverage for pools and spas. guest units. septic pumps. and well pumps The company also offers an electronics protection plan through Allstate This plan covers virtually all home electronics (except for cell phones), but customers can purchase it only in conjunction with one of the American Home Shield plans described above
Homeowners can purchase an American Home Shield home warranty virtually anywhere in the United States. The company operates in every state except for Alaska. though there are some coverage limitations in Hawaii as well.
Like other home warranty providers, American Home Shield provides real estate warranty services. These are specialized plans that a realtor will usually purchase for a buyer or seller of a home Real estate plans may have reduced prices, but new homeowners must sign on to a plan within 90 days of closing to realize those savings.
American Home Shield reviews can be mixed. While some customers rave about the company's services. others balk at high service fees. slow response times. and a workmanship guarantee limited to only 30 days. The company currently has a B rating from the Better Business Bureau.
What's Covered?
| Covered Items | ShieldSilver | ShieldGold | ShieldPlatinum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heating and Cooling Systems | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Electrical Systems | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Plumbing Systems | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Heating and Cooling Systems | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Kitchen Appliances | No | Yes | Yes |
| Laundry Appliances | No | Yes | Yes |
| Roof Leak Repairs | No | No | Yes |
| FREE HVAC Tune-up | No | No | Yes |
| Unlimited A/C refrigerant | No | No | Yes |
| Coverage for code violations and permits | No | No | Yes |
Cinch Home Services
With Cinch, it's easier to understand what's covered.
There are three primary Cinch Home Services plans for homeowners to choose from: the Home Appliances Warranty, the Built-in Systems Warranty, and the Complete Home Warranty. These plans are perhaps self-explanatory. The Home Appliances Warranty covers standard kitchen and laundry appliances. The Built-in Systems Warranty covers components related to plumbing, electrical, heating, and cooling systems. The Complete Home Warranty plan combines appliance and system coverage.
There are some notable coverage benefits associated with Cinch Home Services' plans. The company will cover damage caused by rust and corrosion, for instance. It will also cover preexisting conditions—as long as the homeowner is unaware of those conditions. Cinch Home Services provides an air conditioner and water filter credit with their warranty plans. Also of note is a 180-day workmanship guarantee, which is more generous than the guarantees offered by some warranty providers.
Cinch Home Services advertises a price of $27.99 for appliance coverage. Systems coverage is a little more expensive at $32.99 per month, and the Complete Home Warranty plan is $39.99 per month. Optional coverage add-ons, such as septic tank pumping and pool coverage, are priced individually. These expenses range from $2.50 to $13.33 per month. Note that these prices do not include taxes and fees, and prices differ from state to state. Customers need to consult Cinch Home Services for a quote to determine the true cost of service.
A Cinch Home Services plan will cover damage associated with normal wear and tear. It typically will not cover structural home components, such as roofs, windows, walls, and doors.
Cinch Home Services reviews are mixed. Customers praise the 180-day workmanship guarantee, but there are reports of delayed services. Reviewers have also called out the lack of roof leak coverage and a low claims cap. Cinch Home Services has a B rating from the Better Business Bureau.
What's Covered?
| Covered Items | Appliance | Built-in Systems | Complete Home |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clothes Dryers | Yes | No | Yes |
| Clothes Washers | Yes | No | Yes |
| Cooktops | Yes | No | Yes |
| Dishwashers | Yes | No | Yes |
| Food Centers (Built-in) | Yes | No | Yes |
| Freestanding Ice Makers | Yes | No | Yes |
| Microwaves (Built-in) | Yes | No | Yes |
| Ranges | Yes | No | Yes |
| Range Exhaust Hoods | No | Yes | Yes |
| Refrigerators | Yes | No | Yes |
| Trash Compactors (Built-in) | Yes | No | Yes |
| Wall Ovens | Yes | No | Yes |
| Air Conditioning Including Ductwork | No | Yes | Yes |
| Attic Fans | No | Yes | Yes |
| Ceiling Fans | No | Yes | Yes |
| Central Vacuums | No | Yes | Yes |
| Doorbells | No | Yes | Yes |
| Electrical System | No | Yes | Yes |
| Garage Door Openers | No | Yes | Yes |
| Garbage Disposals | No | Yes | Yes |
| Heating System Including Ductwork | No | Yes | Yes |
| Instant Hot/Cold Water Dispenser | No | Yes | Yes |
| Plumbing System | No | Yes | Yes |
| Smoke Detectors | No | Yes | Yes |
| Sump Pump | No | Yes | Yes |
| Toilets | No | Yes | Yes |
| Water Heater | No | Yes | Yes |
| Whirlpool/Jetted Tub (Built-in) | No | Yes | Yes |
| Homeowners Insurance Deductible Reimbursement | No | No | Yes |
| Air Conditioner or Water Filter Credit | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Water Sensor | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Company Name |
Monthly Premium |
Service Fee |
Waiting Period |
States Covered |
BBB Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberty Home Guard | $40 - $60 | $65 - $125 | 30 Days | 51 | A+ |
| 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty | $22 - $60 | $85 | 30 Days | 31 | B |
| First American Home Warranty | $36 - $38 | $85 | 00 Days | 38 | B |
| Old Republic Insurance Group | $30 - $70 | $50 - $150 | 30 Days | 30 | A+ |
| American Home Shield | $39.99 - $74.99 | $75 - $150 | 30 Days | 50 | B |
| Cinch Home Services | $27.99 - $61.99 | $100 - $150 | 30 Days | 48 | B |
The Best Plans & Services in your Area
Not every home warranty provider is available in every state. Because of that, we’ve created guides for the best home warranty companies in all 50. This will give you in-depth information on your options and who we believe are the top options.
Additionally, we know that homeowners’ needs within a state can vary city-by-city. With that in mind, we’ve analyzed the options to provide city-specific home warranty guides.
Final Thoughts
A Home Warranty can be a good decision for your home, and often for your pocket, so long as you pick the company that best fits your needs. Do you just want your appliances covered? or are you more interested in your Home’s AC, Heating & Plumbing systems. Have these questions in mind when looking, so you find the right home warranty company for you.
How we choose the best home warranty companies:
At Taupe, transparency and trust are our most important values for the reader. That’s why we took the time to create an objective rating system and score each home warranty provider according to our methodology.
We’ve done the homework for you and have researched over 50 home warranty companies so you can have the information you need to make the best choice for your home. Additionally, transparency and trust are our most important values for the reader.
That’s why we took the time to create an objective rating system and score each home warranty provider according to our methodology. Our team spent hours on the phone speaking to representatives from each home warranty company to get information right from the source. We also dug into the fine print on each companies service agreement to make sure no detail was left out.
To make the most of our research, we developed a formula to objectively determine the best home warranty companies based on the following criteria:
Plans: Do they provide a variety of plan options? We looked at the number of plans each company offered and the flexibility adjusting the plan.
Prices: How reasonable are the monthly fees and service fees in comparison to the industry average? We compared the costs of each company to competitors.
Coverage: How many items are covered in each plan? We looked at the number of items each company covers.
Customer service: How is the customer experience when calling the providers? Based on our phone calls, we were able to judge each company’s customer service.
Trust: What do customers rate the company? We looked into what customers are saying about their experience with the company.
Nationwide availability: How many states does the company cover? We found the number of states covered by each company.
Unique perks: Does the company offer discounts or cover special items? We looked for perks offered by each company that sets them apart from the competition.
How we keep our data up to date:
We want to make sure we’re providing you, the consumer, with the most current data available for every home warranty company we’ve researched and rated. That takes significant effort but we feel that’s vital to providing you thorough and trustworthy reviews.
With that in mind, we have dedicated staff members who regularly update our database of home warranty research.
Taupe is absolutely free to use for homeowners. Our mission is to save your money, not the opposite.
No, reviews cannot be saved as drafts since we want to ensure that users leave the review immediately after their experience has been completed.
If one of your covered household items breaks unexpectedly, file a claim with your home warranty company either online or over the phone. Note: Most companies require customers to submit a claim within three days of the system or appliance breaking. The best home warranties are open 24/7/365 and approve claims within 24 to 48 hours, but other companies will make customers wait up to four days on weekends and holidays.
Once your claim is approved by the home warranty company, they’ll either send one of their approved technicians to your house to diagnose the issue or allow you to choose your own contractor for repairs. The contractor will recommend a repair or replacement for your broken system or appliance.
During this service visit, you’ll pay the contractor a service fee of $75–$100 and the warranty company will cover the rest of the repair or replacement costs.
A home warranty—also known as home appliance insurance or home repair insurance—is a service agreement that homeowners can purchase from a home warranty company to help cover the unexpected cost of repairing or replacing faulty systems and appliances.
The home warranty plan chosen by the homeowner determines the monthly cost, service fee, which systems and appliances are covered, and how much the company will pay for repairs and replacements. Most plans last for 12 months. At the end of the contract term, customers can renew their plan.
Star ratings and reviews are how we measure the quality of a home services company. The star rating provides an overall score to the company while the review gives you the detail of the experience and what each individual star rating applies to.
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Considering a home warranty?
A home warranty is the most convenient and affordable way to protect your home. Our articles and reviews of home warranty providers will help you find the right plan for your home.
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