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Audited & Verified: Dec 1, 2024, 4:37am
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| Former Staff EditorBuying or owning a home in Alabama presents unique opportunities for safeguarding your investment. While a homeowner’s insurance policy is crucial, a home warranty can be an additional safety net, protecting your home’s essential systems and appliances, new or old. However, with various providers offering various plans, coverages and costs, finding the ideal home warranty can seem like finding a needle in a haystack.
To help you find the right one, we’ve compiled a list of the best home warranty companies to give you a clear and concise overview of the best options available in Alabama. We hope to simplify your journey and help you choose the home warranty that best matches your needs.
The Forbes Home team is committed to bringing you independent, unbiased ratings and information. We use data and expert advice to inform all of our content. Plus, our advisory board of licensed professionals fact-checks and reviews our content for accuracy and relevancy. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and the home warranty companies methodology for the ratings below.
Featured Partners
1
Select Home Warranty
Plans Available
3
Response Time
Great
Number of States
46 + District of Columbia
2
Choice Home Warranty
Plans Available
2
Response Time
Excellent
Number of States
49 + District of Columbia
3
American Home Shield
Plans Available
3
Response Time
Excellent
Number of States
48 + District of Columbia
Key Takeaways
Through our research, we found that AFC Home Warranty, Liberty Home Guard and American Home Shield rank at the top of our guide to the best home warranty companies in Alabama. AFC Home Warranty scored a solid 4.7 out of 5 possible stars, thanks to its extended workmanship guarantee, which lasts as long as the contract, the option for customers to choose their own contractor and more.
We compared the ratings and costs of our top home warranty companies after completing our research and analysis across criteria including service fees, plans and coverage, add-ons covered, years in business and customer reviews and experiences.
| COMPANY | FORBES HOME RATING | BEST FOR | SERVICE FEE | LEARN MORE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 4.7    | Best Overall | $75 - $125 | On AFC's Website | |
| 4.7 | Best for Additional Perks | $65 - $125 | On Liberty Home Guard's Website | |
| 4.5 | Best for Comprehensive Coverage | $100 - $125 | On American Home Shield's Website | |
| 4.5 | Best for Extended Repair Guarantee | $100 - $150 | On Cinch's Website | |
| 4.3 | Best for Electronics Coverage | $55 | Read Forbes' Review |
Best Overall
Best Overall
AFC Home Warranty
Established in 2009, AFC Home Warranty has been offering home warranty services designed to provide a safety net for homeowners. The company provides various plans and a la carte options to tailor coverage to your unique needs, and through our extensive research, earned a 4.7-star rating with Forbes Home.
There’s a lot to like about AFC Home Warranty, but we specifically like it for its 30-year track record of delivering on its contracts. We also like that the company offers four tiers of coverage compared to many competitors’ three. Additionally, plans (and their guarantees) come in one- and three-year lengths.
Why We Like It
Most home warranty companies give customers three tiers of coverage options, but AFC Home Warranty offers four. Each plan builds on the previous, meaning that each tier offers more comprehensive coverage. Those four contracts are available in one- or three-year contracts. And, since workmanship guarantees last as long as the contract (another rare feature of AFC), the three-year contracts offer plenty of value.
Other likable features of AFC are that homeowners can choose their own technicians and that they can tweak their monthly rate slightly by raising or lowering the service fee, providing excellent flexibility for Alabama homeowners.
What We Don’t Like
While we appreciate the pricing flexibility, it’s hard to ignore that AFC’s prices are slightly higher than the competition. Customers need to ensure that they can afford their coverage within their budget; this could be a problem for some.
Who It’s Best For
Overall, AFC Home Warranty is a great fit for any Alabama homeowner’s home warranty needs. But, we feel it’s best for someone who wants a comprehensive plan that will cover the majority of systems and appliances in the house, as well as some a la carte options.
Learn more: AFC Home Warranty review
| ITEM COVERED | SYSTEMS PLAN | SILVER PLAN | GOLD PLAN | PLATINUM PLAN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Air conditioning | ✓ | – | ✓ | ✓ |
Built-in microwave | – | – | – | ✓ |
Clothes dryer | – | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Clothes washer | – | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Dishwasher | – | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Ductwork | ✓ | – | ✓ | ✓ |
Electrical system | ✓ | – | ✓ | ✓ |
Faucets | – | – | – | ✓ |
Garage door opener | – | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Garbage disposal | – | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Heating system | ✓ | – | ✓ | ✓ |
Ice maker | – | – | – | ✓ |
Oven/range/cooktop/stove | – | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Plumbing stoppages | – | – | – | ✓ |
Plumbing system | ✓ | – | ✓ | ✓ |
Refrigerator | – | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Water heater | ✓ | – | ✓ | ✓ |
In addition to these, you can add coverage for a sump pump, septic system, hot water dispenser, pool and spa, standalone freezer and tankless water heater.
| PLAN NAME | SERVICE FEE | LOWEST AVERAGE MONTHLY PREMIUM |
|---|---|---|
Systems Plan | $75, $100, $125 | $42.25 |
Silver Plan | $75, $100, $125 | $38.00 |
Gold Plan | $75, $100, $125 | $52.50 |
Platinum Plan | $75, $100, $125 | $57.33 |
AFC Home Warranty’s reviews are relatively mixed. Most of the negative reviews mention refused claims and lower coverage amounts than expected, which would understandably upset a customer. However, positive reviews mention that AFC follows through on the contract agreements, so the complaints could be rare, one-off instances. In either case, we think customers should read the fine print closely.
Best for Additional Perks
Best for Additional Perks
Liberty Home Guard
We found that Liberty Home Guard’s plan flexibility and add-on items were second to none. The long list of a la carte coverage items ensures that homeowners can cover just about all of their home’s systems, appliances and devices, earning Liberty a 4.7-star rating.
One of the main reasons we picked Liberty Home Guard was the long list of a la carte menu items that customers can add to their coverage plans. We felt this menu, plus the base plans, provided unbeatable customization options.
Why We Like It
Liberty’s large menu of customizable options and comprehensive base plans empower customers to choose a home warranty option that really fits their needs. The 60-day workmanship guarantee and a large network of service technicians were also highlights, as we felt customers would have peace of mind knowing they wouldn’t have to wait long for their technicians and that their work would be covered.
What We Don’t Like
There are a few things to understand about Liberty Home Guard. First, the company, at its discretion, can require a home inspection before covering a claim. Also, the feedback across all of the consumer trust sites wasn’t consistent—some didn’t hold Liberty in the highest regard.
Who It’s Best For
Without a doubt, we feel that customers who need to control their plans and tweak them until they’re satisfied with their coverage should check out Liberty Home Guard. The company offers the best flexibility in terms of coverage and add-on items that we’ve seen.
Learn more: Liberty Home Guard review
Liberty Home Guard offers three different plans, all covered by a service fee ranging from $65 to $125.
| ITEM COVERED | APPLIANCE GUARD | SYSTEMS GUARD | TOTAL HOME GUARD |
|---|---|---|---|
Air conditioning | – | ✓ | ✓ |
Built-in microwave ovens | ✓ | – | ✓ |
Ceiling and exhaust fans | ✓ | – | ✓ |
Clothes dryer | ✓ | – | ✓ |
Clothes washer | ✓ | – | ✓ |
Dishwashers | ✓ | – | ✓ |
Ductwork | – | ✓ | ✓ |
Electrical | – | ✓ | ✓ |
Garage door openers | ✓ | – | ✓ |
Garbage disposals | ✓ | – | ✓ |
Heating | – | ✓ | ✓ |
Plumbing | – | ✓ | ✓ |
Ranges/ovens/cooktops | ✓ | – | ✓ |
Refrigerator w/ ice maker and display | ✓ | – | ✓ |
Water heaters | – | ✓ | ✓ |
You can purchase additional coverage for pools and spas, gutter cleaning, floor/carpet cleaning, sump pumps, limited roof leaks, pest control, central vacuums, standalone freezers, second refrigerators, well pumps, fixtures, water softeners, lawn sprinkler systems, electronics protection and several others.
No inspections are required before purchasing a plan, and the age of appliances and systems isn’t a consideration.
| PLAN NAME | SERVICE FEE | LOWEST AVERAGE MONTHLY PREMIUM |
|---|---|---|
Appliance Guard | $60 | $45.00 |
Systems Guard | $60 | $49.83 |
Total Home Guard | $60 | $54.33 |
Liberty Home Guard’s reviews were mostly positive, though there were some mixed reviews, as well. The positive reviews focused primarily on satisfaction with the repairs and service, while the negative reviews mentioned reduced limits and slow response times. However, the company does currently hold an A rating with the BBB, and the majority of the feedback was positive.
Best for Comprehensive Coverage
Best for Comprehensive Coverage
American Home Shield
American Home Shield (AHS) has been a stalwart in the home warranty industry for over 50 years, making it a trusted provider. Customers have validated this trust by granting the company an impressive 4.3-star rating on Consumer Affairs, while our extensive research added up to a 4.5-star rating. The company’s three-tiered coverage plans, each featuring service fee options of $100 or $125, offer comprehensive protection suited to various needs.
American Home Shield is the most affordable home warranty coverage option on our list. AHS customers can expect to pay around $30 each month for the entry-level coverage, allowing them to protect their expensive items each month for a minimal investment.
Why We Like It
It’s somewhat surprising that such an affordable home warranty program would have over 50 years of experience in the industry, but that certainly helps generate trust. We also liked that American Home Services doesn’t require inspections to cover claims, and customers can choose their own repair technician. There is also a 30-day work quality guarantee, which isn’t the longest in the industry but does provide some peace of mind.
What We Don’t Like
There were a few things that weren’t stellar about American Home Shield. For instance, the entry-level plan is very affordable, but the high-end plan is much more expensive ($50 more). Also, some of the consumer trust websites hold lower ratings and some negative reviews.
Who It’s Best For
We like American Home Shield for budget-minded homeowners. The affordable monthly rate, coupled with the 52-year track record and 30-day workmanship guarantee, ensures that homeowners can protect their devices and systems without sacrificing service quality.
Learn more: American Home Shield review
| ITEM COVERED | SHIELDSILVER | SHIELDGOLD | SHIELDPLATINUM |
|---|---|---|---|
Air conditioners | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Built-in exhaust/vent/attic fans | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Built-in microwave ovens | – | ✓ | ✓ |
Ceiling fans | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Clothes dryers | – | ✓ | ✓ |
Clothes washers | – | ✓ | ✓ |
Dishwashers | – | ✓ | ✓ |
Doorbells and chimes | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Ductwork | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Faucets and valves | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Garage door openers | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Garbage disposals | – | ✓ | ✓ |
Heating units | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Instant hot/cold water dispensers | – | ✓ | ✓ |
Interior electrical lines | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Interior plumbing lines | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Main breaker and fuse panel box | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Ranges/cooktops | – | ✓ | ✓ |
Refrigerators | – | ✓ | ✓ |
Roof leak repairs | – | – | ✓ |
Ovens | – | ✓ | ✓ |
Toilets | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Water heaters | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Whirlpool tub motor and components | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
You also have the option to add additional items, including electronics, pools and spas, well pump, septic system, guesthouses and roof leak coverage.
| PLAN NAME | SERVICE FEE | LOWEST AVERAGE MONTHLY PREMIUM |
|---|---|---|
ShieldSilver | $100 - $125 | $25.82 |
ShieldGold | $100 - $125 | $45.82 |
ShieldPlatinum | $100 - $125 | $75.82 |
As is the case with most home warranty companies, the reviews on American Home Shield are mixed. Some customers say they appreciate the ease of scheduling and how quickly the company responded. Others complained, saying that AHS took too long to respond. This may be location- or contractor-specific, but it’s something to keep in mind.
Best for Extended Repair Guarantee
Best for Extended Repair Guarantee
Cinch Home Services
Cinch Home Services, boasting a significant track record since its establishment in 1979, has earned our recognition due to its quick service and customer-focused approach. Within a typical business day, the company will contact one of its associated service providers upon receiving a customer request.
We picked Cinch Home Services for its affordability and comprehensive appliance coverage. Customers can protect their expensive appliances without a large monthly payment.
Why We Like It
Cinch knows what it’s doing when it comes to appliance coverage. This home warranty company’s lowest-priced package includes enough appliance coverage to protect most of an average home’s appliances. And even if the customer wants more coverage, the other tiers that expand on coverage for systems and other devices are affordable, as well.
Two other things stood out to us, as well. Cinch provides a complimentary water filter and appliance discounts, and it offers a 180-day workmanship guarantee to help customers feel secure about their repairs.
What We Don’t Like
Our main dislike is the high service fees. While the monthly payments are affordable, service fees can be as much as $150 per call. Also, customers can’t choose their technicians, though Cinch’s network is fairly large.
Who It’s Best For
In our opinion, Cinch’s home warranty is a great choice for most homeowners, but especially those with aging and high-end appliances. The plan coverage will help customers cover repairs or replacements without a large out-of-pocket expense.
Learn more: Cinch Home Services review
| ITEM COVERED | APPLIANCES | BUILT-IN SYSTEMS | COMPLETE HOME |
|---|---|---|---|
Washers and dryers | ✓ | - | ✓ |
Ranges/ovens/cooktops | ✓ | - | ✓ |
Dishwashers | ✓ | - | ✓ |
Freestanding ice makers | ✓ | - | ✓ |
Built-in trash compactors | ✓ | - | ✓ |
Built-in microwaves | ✓ | - | ✓ |
Build-in food centers | ✓ | - | ✓ |
Range exhaust hoods | ✓ | - | ✓ |
Refrigerators | ✓ | - | ✓ |
Wall ovens | ✓ | - | ✓ |
Air conditioners | - | ✓ | ✓ |
Attic fans | - | ✓ | ✓ |
Ceiling fans | - | ✓ | ✓ |
Electrical systems | - | ✓ | ✓ |
Central vacuum | - | ✓ | ✓ |
Doorbells | - | ✓ | ✓ |
Garbage disposals | - | ✓ | ✓ |
Garage door openers | - | ✓ | ✓ |
Heating systems | - | ✓ | ✓ |
Instant hot/cold water dispensers | - | ✓ | ✓ |
Plumbing systems | - | ✓ | ✓ |
Smoke detectors | - | ✓ | ✓ |
Toilets | - | ✓ | ✓ |
Water heaters | - | ✓ | ✓ |
Built-in whirlpool/jetted tub | - | ✓ | ✓ |
The Complete Home plan includes the Homeowner’s Deductible Reimbursement, which reimburses up to $500 per annum in deductible expenses for home insurance claims.
| PLAN NAME | SERVICE FEE | LOWEST AVERAGE MONTHLY PREMIUM |
|---|---|---|
Appliances | $100 - $150 | $34.99 |
Built-In Systems | $100 - $150 | $39.99 |
Complete Home | $100 - $150 | $49.99 |
As always, there are two sides to Cinch’s customer experience coins. Most customer reviews are positive, with many saying their customer service was helpful and knowledgeable, and others mentioning fast response times. On the other side of the coin, negative reviews mention refused claims and long waits.
Best for Electronics Coverage
Best for Electronics Coverage
ARW Home
For Alabama homeowners with an eye for tech, ARW Home is a great fit. ARW’s tech coverage beats the competition; the fees are mostly affordable, and customers can choose their own technicians. This combination led us to a 4.3-star rating through our research, making ARW Home one of the best home warranty companies in Alabama.
It wasn’t hard for us to find features about ARW Home that we liked. For example, it holds above-average ratings with most of the major consumer trust websites. Also, while its coverage plans are suitable for any home, its electronics coverage makes it a great choice for tech-loving homeowners.
Why We Like It
Positive customer feedback can’t be ignored, and ARW has plenty to peruse on most consumer trust sites. Also, the ability to choose our own technicians was a major plus. But it’s really the electronics coverage that has us so excited, as it’s extensive and hard to come by at this price in the home warranty world.
What We Don’t Like
ARW isn’t perfect, which is why it lands a little further down our list than the others. First, service fees are a little confusing, as they’re not clearly listed like they are with other home warranty companies. Also, the monthly fees can be expensive for the upper-tier plans. ARW also has a unique policy requiring written notice to cancel a plan, which we haven’t run into with other companies.
Who It’s Best For
American Residential Warranty is a great fit for the right customers. Those with multiple expensive TVs, gaming consoles, theater rooms and other tech will appreciate ARW Home’s electronics coverage. Having those expensive devices covered while also protecting systems and appliances provides peace of mind.
Learn more: ARW Home review
ARW Home has a long list of items it covers in your home and goes beyond that to include coverage for water and sewer lines if you want. You can find additional details in an ARW Home sample contract.
We found that the overwhelming majority of customer reviews on ARW Home were positive. Most stated that their items were repaired quickly and that they enjoyed their interaction with customer service. However, some negative reviews mentioned their claims being denied and long customer service wait times.
On AFC's Website Have you considered AFC Home Warranty?
Whether you need repairs or a new appliance, AFC can help cover the cost of even the most expensive items like HVAC and plumbing. Here’s why we chose it:
Available plans to choose from: Silver Plan, Gold Plan, Platinum Plan, Systems Plan
Three years work guarantee of repairs
Plans include free credit monitoring, family emergency services and discounts on household items, restaurants and more
On AFC's Website 
Choosing a home warranty in Alabama involves several crucial steps. Here are a few key points to consider.
To get an accurate picture of the quality of service you can expect from a home warranty provider, start by reading local reviews from Alabama residents. These reviews can provide valuable insight into the provider’s responsiveness, the quality of the contracted technicians and the overall satisfaction of previous and current customers.
Many home warranty companies have pre-established networks of local technicians and service providers they work with. Do some research to ensure these technicians have a good reputation and can provide quality service. Additionally, check whether the home warranty company will allow you to choose your own technician or if you must use those in their network.
Alabama’s climate and local regulations may affect what you need in a home warranty. For instance, Alabama experiences hot, humid summers, so a warranty covering your air conditioning system is crucial. Similarly, given the warmer weather, a plan covering pool equipment could be beneficial if you have a pool. Also, consider local property standards or housing regulations that might impact your coverage needs.
Carefully review what each plan covers. While a company might say it covers HVAC systems, the specifics of what parts and conditions are covered can vary widely. Make sure you fully understand what is and isn’t covered by the warranty. Likewise, you want to thoroughly read the terms and conditions before purchasing a home warranty.
Pay particular attention to coverage limits or caps, exclusions and the company’s process for claims and service calls.
Evaluate the cost-effectiveness of each plan. Consider both the monthly or annual premium and the service call fee. Sometimes, a lower monthly premium might come with a higher service call fee, or vice versa. Make sure that a home warranty is worth it to you for your situation.
Compare Quotes From Top-rated Home Warranty Companies
Free, No-commitment Estimates
The cost of home warranties in Alabama can vary significantly based on the provider, the coverage plan selected, the specifics of the home (like its size and age) and any additional coverage chosen. However, as a general estimate, homeowners can expect to pay between $50 to $75 per month for a basic home warranty plan or anywhere between $350 to $600 per year. Service fees, also known as deductibles, are another cost to consider. These are typically charged per service call, ranging from $75 to $125.
It’s also important to note that higher coverage levels or additional coverage options will increase the cost. For instance, coverage for items like pools or spas, septic systems or additional appliances not included in the basic plan will cost extra.
Lastly, location can also impact the cost, so the prices in different cities or regions within Alabama may vary. For the most accurate pricing, getting quotes from several providers and comparing them is recommended.
Home warranties aren’t new, but they’re becoming more and more positively received in recent years. Alabama homeowners can use home warranty policies and plans to cover the cost of repairing expensive systems and appliances, helping them save money when costly repairs arise. But there are also monthly payments and service fees associated with these plans, making determining if home warranties are worth it a bit more difficult.
Consider the following points:
In some cases, a home warranty might not be worth it. Homes with all new appliances will likely have a manufacturer’s warranty that covers those devices for the first few years. Also, brand-new homes are covered under builder’s warranties for at least a year. However, in older homes with aging appliances and systems, one repair could potentially outweigh the cost of an entire year’s worth of payments, depending on the item in question.
Home warranties can be helpful tools when it comes to ensuring financial success. If your budget isn’t prepared for an expensive failure or purchase that pops up out of nowhere, it might be a good idea to make smaller payments to a home warranty company each month—just make sure to use it!
While you don’t need an attorney’s attention to detail, homeowners should certainly read through the fine print to determine if a home warranty is worth it for them. Home warranty companies clearly state their coverage limits, or how much they are willing to pay, on each covered item. If those coverage limits won’t cover your repairs or replacements, it’s better to shop for a home warranty that will.
| ITEM | AVERAGE REPAIR COST | AVERAGE REPLACEMENT COST |
|---|---|---|
| Air Conditioner | $100 - $650 | $2,500 - $5,000 |
| Furnace | $300 - $1,200 | $2,800 - $6,800 |
| Electrical Panel | $75 - $200 hourly to hire an electrician | $1,300 average panel replacement cost |
| Plumbing | $170 an hour to hire a plumber | $3,000 - $16,000 (depending upon home size) |
| Roofs | $150 - $1,500 | $6,700 - $11,500 |
| Dishwasher | $100 - $300 | $970 |
| Refrigerator | $200 - $400 | $800 - $12,000 |
| Oven | $125 - $425 | $2,800 |
| Stove | $125 - $425 | $2,800 |
| Washer/Dryer | $100 - $475 | $1,200 - $3,700 |
Find the top ranked home warranty company in your area
Home warranties can protect you against unexpected expenses. Click on your state today to find out more.
Home warranty companies cap their coverage amounts, known as limits. For example, a company might offer a max of $2,000 to repair or replace an air conditioner. Beyond that amount, the customer will have to pay out of pocket. Some companies offer aggregate repair amounts, paying up to a set amount for all repairs. These limits reset at the end of the year.
Some home warranty companies offer more coverage types than others. Some companies, for example, offer roof leak coverage while others steer clear of roofs altogether.
See the chart below of our top companies compared by coverage options and limits available in Alabama.
| LIBERTY HOME GUARD | AFC HOME WARRANTY | AMERICAN HOME SHIELD | CINCH HOME SERVICES | AMERICAN RESIDENTIAL WARRANTY | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AC coverage limit | $2,000 or up to book value | $3,000 | $5,000 | Total coverage capped at $10,000 | $5,000 |
| Refrigeration coverage limit | $2,000 or up to book value | $3,000 | Varies based on plan | Total coverage capped at $10,000 | $500 |
| Pool coverage available? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Limited roof protection available? | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Septic coverage available? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Home warranties aren’t necessarily regulated in Alabama, but they are overseen by the Alabama Department of Insurance. The agency has helped some homeowners who have felt they weren’t properly serviced, but its main role is explaining the importance of truly understanding a home warranty plan, what it covers and what it doesn’t.
It’s also important to recognize that home warranties are not required like home insurance. Homeowners can choose to not purchase a warranty for their homes in Alabama, as long they’re okay with paying for repairs out of pocket.
We surveyed over 1,000 homeowners in 2024 to learn more about their home warranty needs, uses and who might most benefit from a policy. The following are some of the most important factors that we found through our research about Alabama home warranty companies and customer satisfaction.
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Home warranties can protect you against unexpected expenses. Receive a custom quote today.
A home warranty is a renewable service agreement offering discounted services for repairing and replacing certain household systems and appliances. The coverage specifics can vary based on the home warranty purchased in Alabama. Not to be confused with homeowner’s insurance, a home warranty does not cover damages to personal property or the home’s structure due to emergency events like fire or theft.
Opting for a home warranty can be a strategic way to safeguard your home investment. Paired with a comprehensive homeowner’s insurance policy, it can ensure extensive coverage for your property. However, manufacturers may already cover your household systems under warranties if you own a newly built home.
Similarly, new appliances typically come with their own warranties. Therefore, before investing in a home warranty, confirming that your systems and appliances aren’t already covered is essential.
Best Home Warranty Companies By State
To determine the home warranty companies ranking, the Forbes Home editorial team analyzed 54 companies, with each company’s star rating determined by evaluating a variety of metrics and subcategories, including years of experience, signup and restrictions, plan pricing, fees and discounts, coverage features, property coverage, customer reviews and support and nationwide availability.
You can find out more about how Forbes Home rates home warranty companies on our detailed methodology page.
All figures and facts were accurate at the time of first publication.
The cost of a home warranty in Alabama varies depending on the company, coverage plan and property specifics, such as size and age. However, a home warranty can typically cost anywhere from $300 to over $600 per year. Service fees or deductibles for each repair visit can range from $50 to $100.
No, purchasing a home warranty is not mandatory in Alabama. It’s an optional service contract that homeowners can choose to purchase for peace of mind and potential cost savings on repairs and replacements of home systems and appliances.
Generally, for most homeowners, a home warranty is not tax-deductible. It’s considered a personal expense. However, if you own rental property, the cost of a home warranty may be deductible as an operating expense, but it’s best to consult with a tax advisor or CPA to understand the specifics related to your situation.
It always depends on the level of coverage the homeowner chooses. However, appliances like stoves, ovens, washers, dryers, refrigerators and dishwashers are often covered. Systems like electrical, plumbing and HVAC are also covered by certain plans. Additional items like pools, spas and electronics might be covered if the homeowner adds them to the package.
The biggest benefit of having a home warranty is the reduced out-of-pocket expenses associated with a break down or repair. If a system breaks down, the homeowner will need to pay the service fee (usually between $50 and $150), as well as the monthly payments, but the rest of the repair will be covered up to the limit amount.
Common home warranty claims include HVAC systems, dishwashers, refrigerators and ovens. Through our survey, we found that these four items were the most likely repairs that homeowners have chosen to use their home warranty coverage for.
Tom spent 20 years running his own contracting company, working as a building mechanic and operating as a carpenter. Now he creates solar, home security, moving and home warranty content content for industry professionals and average homeowners.
Geraldine has over a decade of experience writing within the home improvement sector. Additionally, she has unique first-hand renovation experience as the previous owner of a house-flipping business.
Lowe Larretta is former lead editor for Forbes Home, covering all things related to home improvement and good design. She previously worked in the decor and lifestyle spaces for digital publishers such as Hunker, First Media and Ranker and has multiple years of experience creating design and DIY content.
