By:
We may receive compensation through links on this site, but our reviews remain independent and unbiased.
Beta v1
Updated April 2, 2025 11:59 am EST
Ohio's
10 Best Home Warranty Companies
of 2025: Review, Compare & Connect
Our Top 10 List includes Cinch Home Services, American Home Shield, and Select Home Warranty, among others.
Written by: Warren T. Guy
Welcome to The Home Warranty Guide™
Home Warranty Expert & Editor
The Home Warranty Guide™
Fact-Checked
System | Usually | Sometimes | Rarely |
|---|---|---|---|
Solar Panels | ❌ | ||
Septic Tank | ❌ | ||
Plumbing System | ✅ | ||
Electrical System | ✅ | ||
Well Pump | ❌ | ||
Sump Pump | ⚠️ | ||
Water Softener | ⚠️ | ||
Water Heater | ✅ | ||
Thermostats | ⚠️ | ||
Window AC Units | ⚠️ | ||
HVAC System | ✅ | ||
Dryer | ✅ | ||
Washing Machine | ✅ | ||
Dishwasher | ✅ | ||
Built-in Microwave | ✅ | ||
Oven/Range/Stove | ✅ | ||
Standalone Freezer | ⚠️ | ||
Refrigerator | ✅ |
Owning a home can bring unexpected expenses—especially when major appliances or home systems break down. A home warranty offers valuable protection for your budget, providing peace of mind when unexpected repair costs arise. But how exactly does a home warranty work, what does it cover, and is it worth the cost?
Let's dive in!
What is a Home Warranty?
A home warranty is a service contract that covers the repair or replacement costs of major home systems and appliances when they break down due to normal wear and tear or mechanical failures. Typically lasting one year, these warranties help homeowners avoid significant, unexpected repair bills.
Commonly covered items include:
-
HVAC systems
-
Plumbing systems
-
Electrical systems
-
Kitchen appliances (ovens, refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves)
-
Laundry appliances (washers and dryers)
Home Warranty vs. Home Insurance: What's the Difference?
Many homeowners confuse home warranties with homeowners insurance, but they serve different purposes:
-
Home Warranty: Covers repairs or replacements of specific home systems and appliances due to regular usage or breakdowns.
-
Home Insurance: Covers damage or loss due to events like fires, storms, theft, or accidents on your property. It does not cover regular maintenance or appliance/system breakdowns.
How Does a Home Warranty Work?
If a covered appliance or home system breaks down, here's the typical process:
-
File a Service Request Claim:
Contact your warranty provider online or via phone, reporting the specific issue and the appliance or system affected. -
Schedule an Appointment:
The warranty provider assigns a local, third-party contractor to contact you and schedule a convenient time for repairs. Some providers allow you to select your own contractor. -
Repair or Replacement:
The technician diagnoses and repairs the issue. If the appliance or system can’t be repaired, the warranty company may replace it entirely. -
Pay Your Trade Call Fee:
You'll pay a predetermined service fee (usually between $75–$125), similar to an insurance deductible, each time you request service. If repairs cost less than your service fee, you'll pay only the actual repair amount.
What Does a Home Warranty Cover?
Home warranty coverage varies, but typically providers offer three types of plans:
-
System Plans: Coverage for home systems like HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and ductwork.
-
Appliance Plans: Coverage for appliances like refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, washers, and dryers.
-
Combination Plans: Comprehensive coverage for both systems and appliances.
Optional add-ons might include pools, spas, septic systems, and well pumps.
Coverage at a Glance: Here’s a quick visual guide to what's typically covered, sometimes covered, or rarely covered by home warranty providers.
Appliance/System | Usually Covered ✅ | Sometimes Covered ⚠️ | Rarely Covered ❌ |
|---|---|---|---|
Solar Panels | ❌ | ||
Septic Tank | ❌ | ||
Plumbing System | ✅ | ||
Electrical System | ✅ | ||
Well Pump | ❌ | ||
Sump Pump | ⚠️ | ||
Water Softener | ⚠️ | ||
Water Heater | ✅ | ||
Thermostats | ⚠️ | ||
Window AC Units | ⚠️ | ||
HVAC System | ✅ | ||
Dryer | ✅ | ||
Washing Machine | ✅ | ||
Dishwasher | ✅ | ||
Built-in Microwave | ✅ | ||
Oven/Range/Stove | ✅ | ||
Standalone Freezer | ⚠️ | ||
Refrigerator | ✅ |
What is Not Covered by a Home Warranty?
Home warranties typically do not cover:
-
Structural elements (walls, windows, foundations, flooring)
-
Cosmetic damage (scratches, dents)
-
Pre-existing conditions (unless specifically stated otherwise)
-
Improperly maintained appliances or systems
-
Damage due to misuse or negligence
-
Outdoor equipment and landscaping
The Benefits of a Home Warranty
Home warranties provide several important advantages:
-
Peace of Mind:
You can rest easier knowing you're protected from unexpected repair costs, which is especially helpful for first-time homeowners or those on tight budgets. -
Fewer Unexpected Costs:
Instead of paying thousands of dollars for unexpected breakdowns, you typically pay only a modest trade call fee per incident, making home budgeting more predictable.
Home Warranty Cost
A typical home warranty plan costs $35–$75 per month, though some premium options can run $75–$90 or more depending on coverage. Most providers also charge a service fee (or deductible) each time you file a claim—commonly $70–$125. Your location, plan tier, and add-ons (such as pool/spa coverage or roof leak protection) can all affect the final price. For example, an older home with multiple systems may see higher monthly premiums or require more add-ons, while a smaller condo might pay on the lower end of the scale. Many companies also offer discounts if you pay annually instead of monthly, which can save you a few dollars each month.
Ready for a deeper breakdown of real-life monthly costs, service fees, and plan comparisons?
If you want more information, check out our comprehensive Cost Guide!
If you're ready to evaluate home warranties, you can jump to our Top 10 List of the best home warranty companies in America.
What to Consider Before Buying a Home Warranty
Before making your purchase, keep these key factors in mind:
-
Not Everything is Covered:
Always read the fine print to fully understand what’s covered and what isn’t. -
Coverage Limits per Repair:
Providers often cap repair or replacement costs, so high-end appliances might not receive full replacement value. -
Current Customer Reviews:
Customer experiences vary widely. Carefully research companies through reviews, ratings, and testimonials to find a reliable, well-regarded provider.
The Bottom Line: Are Home Warranties Worth The Cost?
A home warranty is valuable depending on your financial situation, handyman skills, age and condition of appliances/systems, and tolerance for risk.
-
If you’re a first-time homebuyer, or your home has aging appliances and systems, a warranty could save you thousands.
-
Conversely, if your appliances are newer and under manufacturer’s warranty, or if you prefer handling repairs yourself, it may not offer as much value.
Consider this:
A water heater repair can cost nearly $1,000. With a home warranty, the same repair might cost only your trade fee of around $100.
Check out our Top 10 Warranty Providers ↓
Awards
Best Overall
Best Coverage
Fastest Service
Best Value
Most Reliable
Best Overall
Best Coverage
Fastest Service
Best Value
Most Reliable
Reviews: The 10 Best Home Warranty Companies In-Depth
Selecting the right home warranty can be overwhelming. Plans vary widely in coverage, costs, fine-print exclusions, and claims processes—so it’s tough to spot the best match for your home. That’s why we’ve gone beyond surface-level summaries. In these reviews, you’ll find:
-
Monthly Fees & Service Costs
-
Coverage & Plan Options (including caps, add-ons, and notable exclusions)
-
User Feedback & Pros/Cons
-
Our Take on who each provider suits best
We used a consistent, data-driven methodology across over 100 providers, ensuring apples-to-apples comparisons. Whether you’re looking for the lowest out-of-pocket expenses, the highest coverage caps, or the fastest claim response, these in-depth breakdowns will help you choose a plan confidently:
①
Cinch Home Services
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (9.9/10)
Best Overall
Editor's Choice
Pros
180-day workmanship guarantee, double the industry standard
Complimentary water-leak sensor included
Annual $500 homeowners insurance deductible reimbursement
Cons
Add-on options could increase monthly premiums.
Standard coverage caps might not fully cover high-end replacements.
Service fees can be higher ($100–$150) compared to some competitors
Coverage Checklist
Cinch Home Services ranks as our #1-rated home warranty provider, delivering flexible coverage plans tailored for both appliances and major home systems. Homeowners enjoy clear, upfront pricing, an easy 24/7 claims process, and standout perks like rust and corrosion protection, a $500 homeowners insurance deductible reimbursement, and an industry-leading 180-day workmanship guarantee. Backed by over 40 years of experience, Cinch offers nationwide availability and dependable service.
Item | Offered? | Limit |
|---|---|---|
HVAC | ✅ Yes | Up to $2,000 |
Electrical | ✅ Yes | Up to $1,000 |
Plumbing | ✅ Yes | Up to $1,000 |
Appliance | ✅ Yes | Up to $2,000 |
Pool/Spa | ⚠️ Yes | Add-on required |
Electronics | ⚠️ Yes | Add-on required |
Roof | ❌ No | Not covered |
③
Select Home Warranty
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (9.4/10)
Fastest Service
Pros
Includes complimentary roof leak coverage with all plans.
Lower-than-average monthly premiums and service fees ($60–$75 per claim)
Straightforward, clearly outlined plans: Bronze (appliances), Gold (systems), and Platinum (comprehensive)
Cons
Coverage limits are lower compared to some competitors (e.g., HVAC capped around $2,000 per claim)
Limited selection of optional add-ons available
Shorter workmanship guarantee period (60 days) compared to industry leaders offering up to 180 days
Coverage Checklist
Select Home Warranty ranks #3, offering affordable, straightforward home protection ideal for budget-conscious homeowners. Plans like the recommended Platinum Care cover both essential appliances and systems, along with valuable free roof leak coverage—a perk typically charged by other providers. Select’s low service fees, transparent pricing, and convenient nationwide service make it a reliable, cost-effective choice.
Item | Offered? | Limit |
|---|---|---|
HVAC | ✅ Yes | $3,000 per system |
Electrical | ✅ Yes | $500 per claim |
Plumbing | ✅ Yes | $500 per claim |
Appliance | ✅ Yes | $500 per claim |
Electronics | ❌ No | Not covered |
Pool/Spa | ✅ Yes | Included in all plans |
Roof | ✅ Yes | Included in all plans |
④
Choice Home Warranty
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (9.0/10)
Best Value
Pros
Simple two-tier plan structure (Basic and Total) makes choosing coverage straightforward.
Service fees consistently lower than competitors, ranging between $75 and $85 per claim.
24/7 claims processing via online portal and customer support hotline
Cons
Fewer customization options and add-ons compared to other top providers
Coverage excludes known pre-existing conditions, such as appliances flagged in home inspections
Technician quality can occasionally vary by region, based on customer feedback
Choice Home Warranty earns its #4 spot by offering straightforward, affordable plans ideal for homeowners who value simplicity. The recommended Total Plan covers essential systems and appliances, including air conditioning, refrigerators, washers, and dryers. With competitive monthly pricing ($45–$55), a $75-$85 service fee, and a convenient 24/7 claims process, Choice delivers solid value. Its 90-day repair guarantee and wide nationwide availability (except California) further enhance reliability, making Choice a dependable pick.
Item | Offered? | Limit |
|---|---|---|
HVAC | ✅ Yes | $3,000 per system |
Electrical | ✅ Yes | $3,000 per system |
Plumbing | ✅ Yes | $3,000 per system |
Appliances | ✅ Yes | $3,000 per appliance |
Electronics | ❌ No | Not covered |
Pool/Spa | ✅ Yes | $500 per term |
Roof | ✅ Yes | $500 per term |
Coverage Checklist
⑤
Liberty Home Guard
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (8.9/10)
Liberty Home Guard earns the #5 spot with its highly customizable coverage and outstanding customer service. Offering clear, affordable plans ($40–$60/month), including the popular Total Home Guard, Liberty makes protecting appliances and home systems simple. With nationwide availability, extensive add-ons, and a responsive claims team backed by a respectable 60-day workmanship guarantee, Liberty delivers reliable, tailored home warranty coverage.
Most Reliable
Pros
Extensive range of customizable add-ons (e.g., electronics, pest control)
Coverage available nationwide, including all 50 states
Highly rated customer service and efficient claims process
Cons
Shorter workmanship guarantee (60 days) compared to industry leaders (often 90–180 days)
Higher monthly costs if multiple optional add-ons are selected
Limited flexibility in choosing your own contractor
Coverage Checklist
Item | Offered? | Limit |
|---|---|---|
HVAC | ✅ Yes | $2,000 per system |
Electrical | ✅ Yes | $500 per claim |
Plumbing | ✅ Yes | $500 per claim |
Appliance | ✅ Yes | $2,000 per appliance |
Electronics | ✅ Yes | Optional; limits vary |
Pool/Spa | ✅ Yes | Optional; limits vary |
Roof | ✅ Yes | Optional; limits vary |
Service Fee | $75-$125 |
Monthly Fee | $40-$60 |
States Covered | 50 |
⑥
Sears Protect
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (8.7/10)
Sears Protect secures the #6 spot with reliable coverage backed by a trusted brand name. Its straightforward Whole Home Plan covers major appliances and systems, while clear pricing ($50–$70/month, $75-$100 service fee) eliminates surprises. Sears offers an extensive national technician network and an industry-leading 180-day repair guarantee, though pricing can be slightly higher than competitors. For homeowners seeking peace of mind through a recognized provider, Sears Protect is a solid, dependable choice.
Pros
Cons
Trusted, nationally recognized brand with extensive service network
Monthly pricing and service fees can be slightly higher compared to competitors.
Offers an industry-leading 180-day workmanship guarantee.
Limited add-on options available for customization.
Clear, straightforward pricing ($50–$70/month, $75-$100 service fee).
Coverage may exclude certain pre-existing conditions or high-end appliances.
Item | Offered? | Limit |
|---|---|---|
HVAC | ✅ Yes | $6,000 per system |
Electrical | ✅ Yes | $6,000 per system |
Plumbing | ✅ Yes | $6,000 per system |
Appliance | ✅ Yes | $3,500 per appliance |
Electronics | ❌ No | Not covered |
Pool/Spa | ✅ Yes | Optional; limits vary |
Roof | ❌ No | Not covered |
Coverage Checklist
⑦
ARW Home
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (8.5/10)
ARW Home earns the #7 spot for its affordable, customizable coverage and customer-focused service. Its recommended Platinum Plan combines appliance and system protection clearly and effectively, with monthly premiums typically between $35–$60 and service fees averaging $55–$75 per claim. ARW’s easy-to-use online claims system and nationwide availability enhance convenience, though homeowners should watch for coverage limits. If you're looking for practical, budget-friendly home protection, ARW Home is a reliable choice.
Pros
Competitive pricing with lower-than-average service fees ($55–$75 per claim)
Nationwide coverage, available in all 50 states
Multiple plan tiers offering flexibility for different budgets and needs
Cons
Lower coverage limits per claim compared to top providers
Inconsistent quality reported among third-party service technicians
Limited coverage for certain major systems, such as roof leaks or pre-existing conditions
Coverage Checklist
Item | Offered? | Limit |
|---|---|---|
HVAC | ✅ Yes | $1,000 per system |
Electrical | ✅ Yes | $1,000 per term |
Plumbing | ✅ Yes | $1,000 per term |
Appliance | ✅ Yes | $500 per appliance |
Electronics | ✅ Yes | Optional; limits vary |
Pool/Spa | ✅ Yes | Optional; limits vary |
Roof | ❌ No | Not covered |
Service Fee | $55–$75 |
Monthly Fee | $35–$60 |
States Covered | 50 |
⑧
Elite Home Warranty
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (8.4/10)
Elite Home Warranty takes the #8 spot by providing reliable coverage with transparent pricing. Its recommended Elite Complete Plan covers both appliances and major home systems, typically costing $40–$65 monthly with service fees around $75–$100. Elite stands out with responsive customer support and nationwide availability, though coverage caps and add-on options are somewhat limited. For straightforward, affordable protection without hassle, Elite Home Warranty is a solid choice.
Pros
Clear, easy-to-understand plans with straightforward pricing
Strong emphasis on responsive customer support
Competitive monthly premiums with affordable service fees ($75–$100 per claim)
Cons
Coverage caps per claim can be restrictive for expensive repairs
Fewer add-on options compared to top-ranked providers
Limited availability, not operating nationwide
Coverage Checklist
Item | Offered? | Limit |
|---|---|---|
HVAC | ✅ Yes | $3,000 per term |
Electrical | ✅ Yes | $2,000 per term |
Plumbing | ✅ Yes | $2,000 per term |
Appliance | ✅ Yes | $3,000 per appliance |
Electronics | ✅ Yes | Optional; limits vary |
Pool/Spa | ✅ Yes | $1,500 per term |
Roof | ✅ Yes | $1,500 per term |
⑨
2-10 Home Buyers Warranty
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (8.3/10)
Pros
Specializes in coverage for new and existing homes, ideal for recent homebuyers
Offers unique structural warranty options for new constructions
Provides affordable premiums and clear service fee structure ($85–$125 per claim)
Cons
Limited flexibility in customization and add-on options
Shorter workmanship guarantee (30 days) on appliances.
Coverage limitations for certain high-end appliances and systems
2-10 Home Buyers Warranty secures the #9 spot with reliable coverage ideal for homeowners and new buyers. Its recommended Pinnacle Home Plan covers major systems and appliances for about $25–$60 monthly, with service fees of $85–$125. Standout features include structural warranty options, transparent pricing, and dependable nationwide service, though customization and coverage limits could improve. Overall, 2-10 HBW is a practical choice, especially during real estate transactions.
Coverage Checklist
Item | Offered? | Limit |
|---|---|---|
HVAC | ✅ Yes | $1,500 per term |
Electrical | ✅ Yes | Included in $25,000 |
Plumbing | ✅ Yes | Included in $25,000 |
Appliance | ✅ Yes | $2,000 per appliance |
Electronics | ❌ No | Not covered |
Pool/Spa | ✅ Yes | Optional; $1,000 |
Roof | ✅ Yes | Optional; $1,000 |
⑩
Home Warranty of America
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (8.1/10)
Home Warranty of America (HWA) rounds out our Top 10, providing straightforward plans with unique eco-friendly options. HWA offers clear pricing ($25–$60/month, $75–$100 service fees) and nationwide availability. While coverage caps and occasional contractor scheduling delays exist, HWA’s responsive service and green-focused options make it a reliable, budget-friendly choice—especially for eco-conscious homeowners.
Pros
Offers unique GreenPlus coverage, promoting eco-friendly replacements
Nationwide availability across all 50 states
Straightforward pricing and easy-to-understand plans
Cons
Service fees can be slightly higher than some competitors ($75–$100)
Coverage limits on repairs and replacements are relatively modest
Add-on coverage selection is more limited compared to top competitors
Coverage Checklist
Item | Offered | Limit |
|---|---|---|
HVAC | ✅ Yes | $5,000 per term |
Electrical | ✅ Yes | $2,000 per term |
Plumbing | ✅ Yes | $1,000 per term |
Appliance | ✅ Yes | Varies by appliance |
Electronics | ❌ No | Not covered |
Pool/Spa | ✅ Yes | Optional; limits vary |
Roof | ❌ No | Not covered |
Top 10 List - Compare & Save
For a snapshot of the key details—costs, coverage caps, and standout features—use this quick-compare list to see how each provider stacks up. If you want the full story (including pros and cons, plan breakdowns, and our editorial verdict), jump to the in-depth reviews below. But for now, here’s a condensed overview of our 10 best home warranty companies, side by side!
①
Cinch Home Services
Best Overall
Editor's Choice
Service Fee | $100-$150 |
Monthly Fee | $35-$65 |
States Covered | 48* |
*Excludes Alaska & Hawaii
866-408-0024
First month free with monthly billing on select annual plans. Exclusions apply
9.9
Overall Score
American Home Shield
Best Coverage
②
Service Fee | $75-$125 |
Monthly Fee | $40-$90 |
States Covered | 48* |
*Excludes Alaska & Hawaii
888-682-1043
Super Savings Event - 40% OFF All Plans!
9.7
Overall Score
③
Select Home Warranty
Fastest Service
Service Fee | $60-$75 |
Monthly Fee | $44-$48 |
States Covered | 46* |
*Excludes IA, NV, WA, WI
855-267-3532
Limited time offer, Try Select out with a $20 intro rate, Call Now!
9.4
Overall Score
④
Choice Home Warranty
Best Value
Service Fee | $75-$85 |
Monthly Fee | $45-$55 |
States Covered | 48* |
*Excludes California & Washington
800-495-6090
$75 OFF + 1MONTH FREE!* ACT FAST!
9.0
Overall Score
Liberty Home Guard
Most Reliable
⑤
Service Fee | $75-$125 |
Monthly Fee | $40-$60 |
States Covered | 50 |
833-543-9329
Special Offer
-
$200 Off
-
2 FREE Bonus Months
-
FREE Limited Roof Leak Protection
8.9
Overall Score
Sears Protect
⑥
Service Fee | $75-$100 |
Monthly Fee | $50-$70 |
States Covered | 49* |
*Excludes California
800-469-4663
Save 50% on Kitchen & Laundry Appliances: $249.99
8.7
Overall Score
⑦
ARW Home
Service Fee | $55–$75 |
Monthly Fee | $35–$60 |
States Covered | 50 |
855-304-2896
Special Offer: Receive 2 Months FREE on a Home Warranty
8.5
Overall Score
⑧
Elite Home Warranty
Service Fee | $75–$100 |
Monthly Fee | $40–$65 |
States Covered | 46* |
*Excludes TX, CA, WA, & WI
888-754-4804
Exclusive Savings: $200 Off + 2 Months Free. 60-Day Free Trial
8.4
Overall Score
⑨
2-10 Home Buyers Warranty
Service Fee | $85-$125 |
Monthly Fee | $25-$60 |
States Covered | 47* |
720-513-7871
APRIL SHOWER OF SAVINGS: 20% off Select Plans & Options in Your Cart with code: SHOWER
*Excludes AK, HI, & OK
8.3
Overall Score
⑩
Home Warranty of America
Service Fee | $75–$100 |
Monthly Fee | $25–$60 |
States Covered | 50 |
888-616-9901
30-day money-back guarantee on all warranty plans.
8.1
Overall Score
How We Decide
We evaluated 100+ companies based on the factors that matter most to homeowners. Our key criteria include:
-
Coverage & Plan Options
- How comprehensive each plan is, coverage caps, and any add-ons. -
Pricing & Fees
- Monthly costs, service fees, and overall value for different budgets. -
Claims & Service Experience
- Ease of filing claims, response times, and how fairly providers handle payouts. -
Customer Satisfaction
- Real-user feedback from reputable review sites, plus any major complaints or red flags. -
Repair Guarantees & Transparency
- Workmanship guarantees, coverage exclusions, clarity of contracts, and how openly providers disclose terms.
We refresh our analysis monthly to reflect new pricing or coverage changes. We may receive compensation from some partners, but our rankings are not for sale—they’re guided strictly by the data we gather and our independent editorial process.
Want the full breakdown of our scoring system and data sources?
FAQ
What is a home warranty?
A home warranty is a service contract that helps cover the repair or replacement of home systems and appliances due to normal wear and tear. Unlike homeowners insurance, which protects against disasters and accidents, a home warranty provides coverage for unexpected mechanical breakdowns of essential household items.
Common items covered include:
-
Major appliances (refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, washers, dryers)
-
Home systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, water heaters)
A home warranty offers peace of mind by reducing out-of-pocket repair costs when these items fail.
How does a home warranty work?
When a covered appliance or system breaks, you can file a claim with your home warranty provider to arrange for repairs or replacement.
Step-by-Step Process:
-
File a claim online or by phone with your home warranty provider.
-
A service technician is dispatched to diagnose the issue.
-
You pay a service fee (typically $60 – $150).
-
The technician repairs or replaces the item if it’s covered under your plan.
If a repair isn’t possible, the company may offer a replacement unit or cash payout, depending on the policy.
What does a home warranty cover?
Coverage varies by provider and plan, but most home warranties cover major home appliances and systems.
Commonly Covered Items:
✔ Appliances: Refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, washers, dryers
✔ HVAC Systems: Air conditioning, furnaces, ductwork
✔ Plumbing: Water heaters, leaks, pipes, sump pumps
✔ Electrical: Wiring, circuit breakers, panels
What’s NOT Covered?
❌ Structural components (walls, floors, foundations)
❌ Improperly maintained items
❌ Damage from natural disasters
❌ Cosmetic issues (scratches, dents)
Always review the contract carefully to understand exclusions and coverage limits.
How much does a home warranty cost?
The cost of a home warranty depends on factors such as coverage level, home size, and location.
Average Home Warranty Pricing:
💰 Monthly Cost: $35 – $75
💰 Annual Cost: $400 – $900
💰 Service Fee Per Claim: $60 – $150
Additional coverage for pools, septic systems, or roof leaks may increase costs. Choosing a higher service fee can sometimes lower your monthly premium. For a detailed breakdown of cost, visit our full cost guide.
Is a home warranty worth it?
A home warranty can provide significant value depending on your home’s age and financial situation.
A Home Warranty is Worth It If:
✔ You own older appliances or systems that may break down soon.
✔ You don’t have an emergency fund for large repairs.
✔ You want predictable repair costs instead of unexpected bills.
A Home Warranty May NOT Be Worth It If:
❌ Your home’s appliances and systems are brand new.
❌ You prefer choosing your own repair technician.
❌ You can afford to pay for repairs out of pocket.
If your home has aging systems or expensive appliances, a home warranty can save thousands in repair costs.
Isn't a home warranty just homeowners insurance?
No, a home warranty is completely different from homeowners insurance.
A home warranty helps pay for repairs and replacements of appliances and home systems due to wear and tear. It covers things like HVAC failures, plumbing leaks, and broken dishwashers.
Homeowners insurance, on the other hand, protects against disasters, theft, and structural damage. It covers fires, storms, floods, and break-ins but not normal mechanical failures.
Most homeowners have both since they serve different purposes.
How do I file a home warranty claim?
Filing a claim is simple and typically takes only a few minutes.
How to File a Claim:
-
Contact your home warranty provider (online or by phone).
-
Describe the issue and schedule a technician visit.
-
Pay the service fee (usually $60 – $150).
-
A technician inspects and repairs the issue if covered.
-
If replacement is needed, the provider may offer a new unit or a cash payout.
Most companies respond within 24 – 48 hours, but emergency repairs (like no heat in winter) may be handled faster.
Can I choose my own contractor for repairs?
Most home warranty providers require you to use their network of pre-approved technicians, but some allow homeowners to select their own contractors. Providers that don’t allow this will deny reimbursement if an unauthorized contractor performs the repair.
If choosing your own technician is important, make sure to select a provider that allows it.
Do home warranties cover preexisting conditions?
Most home warranty plans do NOT cover pre-existing conditions, but there are exceptions.
How Do Companies Handle Pre-Existing Issues?
✅ Some providers cover issues that were "unknown" before purchasing the plan.
❌ Most do NOT cover items that were already broken when coverage started.
Providers like American Home Shield cover undetectable pre-existing conditions, but many others exclude them entirely.
If your home has older appliances, ask about pre-existing condition policies before buying.
Who We Are
At The Home Warranty Guide, we're uniquely focused on one mission: becoming the web's most trusted resource for everything home warranty.
Our experts have over 20 years of specialized experience in residential repairs, contractor sales, and home services lead generation. We have particular expertise in home warranty solutions. We know the industry inside and out because we've worked extensively on every side of it: as homeowners dealing with unexpected repairs, professionals generating leads for home service providers, specialists helping contractors grow their businesses, and even as home repair experts.
This deep, firsthand expertise shaped our proprietary ranking methodology, which evaluates providers based on transparent pricing, claims responsiveness, customer satisfaction, and overall value. Unlike general review sites covering many unrelated services, our dedicated focus ensures you receive accurate, relevant, and up-to-date information to make confident home warranty decisions.
We're committed to guiding you clearly through the ever-changing home warranty landscape, helping protect your budget, your home, and your peace of mind
Advertiser Disclosure
The Home Warranty Guide provides free, independent reviews and comparisons of home warranty companies and products to help homeowners make informed decisions. To support our efforts, we receive advertising compensation from some providers listed on our site, which may influence placement or prominence. However, this compensation never affects our independent research, ratings, or recommendations.