Top 10 Home Warranty Companies
Introduction
Buying a home is a significant investment, and protecting that investment is crucial. One way homeowners can protect their homes is by purchasing a home warranty. Home warranties can provide peace of mind for homeowners by covering the cost of repairs or replacement of home systems and appliances.
However, choosing the right home warranty company can be a daunting task. With so many options in the market, it can be challenging to evaluate which company will provide the best coverage and service.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at the top 10 home warranty companies in the market. We'll dive into their strengths and weaknesses, and provide a comprehensive comparison table to help you make an informed decision.
The Top 10 Home Warranty Companies
Here are the top 10 home warranty companies ranked based on overall coverage, customer service, and pricing:
| Company Name | Coverage | Customer Service | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. American Home Shield | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★ |
| 2. First American Home Warranty | ★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★ |
| 3. Choice Home Warranty | ★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★ |
| 4. Select Home Warranty | ★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★ |
| 5. Total Home Protection | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★ |
| 6. Cinch Home Services | ★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★ |
| 7. Amazon Home Warranty | ★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★ |
| 8. Liberty Home Guard | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★ |
| 9. HomeServe USA | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★ |
| 10. America's Preferred Home Warranty | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★ |
Strengths and Weaknesses of Top 10 Home Warranty Companies
When it comes to home warranty companies, each one has its own strengths and weaknesses. In this section, we'll take a closer look at the top 10 home warranty companies and evaluate their key strengths and weaknesses.
American Home Shield
American Home Shield is one of the most popular home warranty companies in the market. They offer comprehensive coverage and have a wide network of contractors. However, their pricing is higher than some of their competitors, and their customer service can be hit or miss.
Strengths:
- Comprehensive coverage
- Large network of contractors
- Fast claim response times
Weaknesses:
- Higher pricing compared to competitors
- Inconsistency in customer service
- Service call fees are high
First American Home Warranty
First American Home Warranty offers affordable pricing and comprehensive coverage. However, their service call fees can be higher than some of their competitors, and their coverage limits can be lower.
Strengths:
- Affordable pricing
- Comprehensive coverage
- Additional coverage options available
Weaknesses:
- Higher service call fees compared to competitors
- Coverage limits can be lower
- Customer service can be slow to respond
Choice Home Warranty
Choice Home Warranty offers affordable pricing and comprehensive coverage. They have a large network of contractors, but their customer service can be inconsistent.
Strengths:
- Affordable pricing
- Comprehensive coverage
- Large network of contractors
Weaknesses:
- Inconsistent customer service
- Service call fees can be high
- AC and heating system coverage can be limited
Select Home Warranty
Select Home Warranty offers affordable pricing and comprehensive coverage. They have a fast claim response time, but their customer service can be hit or miss.
Strengths:
- Affordable pricing
- Comprehensive coverage
- Fast claim response times
Weaknesses:
- Inconsistent customer service
- Service call fees can be high
- Coverage limits can be lower
Total Home Protection
Total Home Protection offers comprehensive coverage and affordable pricing. They have a large network of contractors and fast claim response time.
Strengths:
- Affordable pricing
- Comprehensive coverage
- Large network of contractors
Weaknesses:
- Customer service can be hit or miss
- Service call fees can be high
- Coverage limits can be lower
Cinch Home Services
Cinch Home Services offers comprehensive coverage and excellent customer service. However, their pricing can be higher than some of their competitors.
Strengths:
- Comprehensive coverage
- Excellent customer service
- Add-on coverage options available
Weaknesses:
- Higher pricing compared to competitors
- Service call fees can be high
- Coverage limits can be lower
Amazon Home Warranty
Amazon Home Warranty is a newer home warranty company that offers affordable pricing and comprehensive coverage. They have a large network of contractors and fast claim response times. However, their customer service can be inconsistent.
Strengths:
- Affordable pricing
- Comprehensive coverage
- Fast claim response times
Weaknesses:
- Inconsistent customer service
- Coverage limits can be lower
- Service call fees can be high
Liberty Home Guard
Liberty Home Guard offers comprehensive coverage and excellent customer service. They have a fast claim response time, but their pricing can be higher than some of their competitors.
Strengths:
- Comprehensive coverage
- Excellent customer service
- Fast claim response times/li>
Weaknesses:
- Higher pricing compared to competitors
- Service call fees can be high
- Coverage limits can be lower
HomeServe USA
HomeServe USA offers affordable pricing and comprehensive coverage. They have a large network of contractors and fast claim response times. However, their customer service can be inconsistent.
Strengths:
- Affordable pricing
- Comprehensive coverage
- Fast claim response times
Weaknesses:
- Inconsistent customer service
- Service call fees can be high
- Coverage limits can be lower
America's Preferred Home Warranty
America's Preferred Home Warranty offers comprehensive coverage and affordable pricing. However, their customer service can be slow to respond.
Strengths:
- Comprehensive coverage
- Affordable pricing
- No limit on appliance age
Weaknesses:
- Slow customer service response times
- Higher service call fees compared to competitors
- Coverage limits can be lower
FAQs
1. What exactly is a home warranty?
A home warranty is a contract between a homeowner and a home warranty company that provides coverage for repairs and replacement of home systems and appliances.
2. What does a home warranty cover?
A home warranty can cover a variety of home systems and appliances, such as HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical, kitchen appliances, and more. The specific coverage varies by company and plan.
3. What is the difference between a home warranty and home insurance?
Home insurance typically covers damage to a home caused by unexpected events, such as fire, theft, or natural disasters. A home warranty covers repairs and replacement of home systems and appliances due to normal wear and tear.
4. How much does a home warranty cost?
The cost of a home warranty varies based on the company and plan. Most plans range from $300 to $600 per year.
5. How long does a home warranty last?
Most home warranty contracts are for one year, but some companies offer multi-year plans.
6. Are there any exclusions or limitations to home warranty coverage?
Yes, each home warranty company and plan has specific exclusions and limitations. It's important to read the contract carefully to understand what is and isn't covered.
7. Are pre-existing conditions and appliances covered under a home warranty?
No, pre-existing conditions and appliances are typically not covered under a home warranty. Most companies require a home inspection before coverage begins.
8. Can I choose my own contractor for repairs?
Most home warranty companies have a network of contractors that they work with, but some companies allow homeowners to choose their own contractors.
9. What is a service call fee?
A service call fee is a predetermined fee that homeowners pay when a contractor comes to their home to diagnose and repair a covered item.
10. What happens if a covered item can't be repaired?
If a covered item can't be repaired, the home warranty company will typically replace the item or provide a cash payout for the item's value.
11. Can I cancel my home warranty?
Yes, most home warranty contracts can be cancelled at any time, but some companies charge a cancellation fee.
12. What should I look for when choosing a home warranty company?
When choosing a home warranty company, it's important to consider factors such as coverage, pricing, customer service, and contract terms. It's also a good idea to read reviews and compare multiple companies before making a decision.
13. Do I need a home warranty?
Whether or not you need a home warranty depends on your personal preferences and budget. A home warranty can provide peace of mind and save you money on repairs and replacement of home systems and appliances.
Conclusion
Choosing the right home warranty company can be a challenging task, but by evaluating factors such as coverage, pricing, and customer service, you can make an informed decision.
After reviewing the top 10 home warranty companies in the market, we recommend considering American Home Shield, First American Home Warranty, and Choice Home Warranty for their comprehensive coverage and affordable pricing. Cinch Home Services and Liberty Home Guard are also great options for their excellent customer service and fast claim response times.
Whatever company you choose, be sure to read the contract carefully and understand what is and isn't covered. A home warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment in your home.
Thank you for reading!
Disclaimer
The information in this article is based on our research and analysis of public information and data. We have done our best to provide accurate and up-to-date information, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or completeness. This article is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for professional advice. We recommend that you consult with a qualified professional before making any financial or legal decisions. We are not responsible for any actions or decisions you may make based on the information in this article.