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Audited & Verified: Jun 26, 2025, 10:09am
Reviewed By
| Staff EditorHome warranty providers elicit a litany of reactions, some good and some not-so-good.
In light of that, we analyzed more than 50 plans from 19 companies, looking at dozens of real price quotes, analyzed 146,478 online customer reviews and comments about home warranties using our Consumer Sentiment Index tool and performed a detailed review of company policies.
To learn more about home warranties generally, and the best home warranty companies according to us, read on.
We know that dozens of home warranty plans are available to homeowners, and sorting through all the fine print to choose the right one for your home can be frustrating. That’s why we’ve evaluated the top companies with comprehensive plans and compiled this list of the best home warranty companies to help you make an informed decision based on your home and budget needs. The Forbes Home team is committed to bringing you independent, unbiased ratings and information. We use proprietary 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 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
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 | MONTHLY COST | LEARN MORE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 4.7    | Best Overall | $27.00+ | Read Forbes' Review | |
| 4.5 | Best Service Response Times | $46.08+ | On HWA's Website | |
| 4.5 | Best Cost and Plan Options | $49.99+ | On Liberty Home Guard's Website | |
| 4.4 | Best for Unique Home Features | $29.99+ | On American Home Shield's Website | |
| 4.3 | Best Value | $39.99+ | Read Forbes' Review | |
| 4.3 | Best Add-On Coverages | $51.25+ | On The Home Service Club's Website | |
| 4.3 | Best for Older Homes | $35.99+ | On Cinch's Website | |
| 4.2  | Best Pricing Structure | $41.83+ | On AFC's Website | |
| 4.2 | Best for Contract Terms | $46.67+ | On Choice Home Warranty's Website | |
| 3.9 | Best for High Coverage Maximums | $42.00+ | On First American's Website |
Best Overall
Best Overall
2-10 Home Buyers Warranty
Whether you’re buying, selling or building on, 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty has fantastic options for both homeowners and sellers. With a Simply Kitchen plan covering kitchen appliances for as low as $27 monthly, a $50 monthly Complete Home plan that expands protection to electrical systems and plumbing, and the Pinnacle Home plan, which covers all of the previous items and things like alarm systems, filters and pipes for $65 per month, 2-10 can cover most homeowners’ needs with one of the three plans.
Learn more: 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty review
2-10 Home Buyers Warranty offers three comprehensive plans that are also some of the most price-competitive in the home warranty space. What caught our eye in particular was that 2-10 helps home sellers boost the appeal of their homes by offering protections during the listing period. Some basic plans are as low as $32 per month, and service fees can range from $65 to $100, offering more price flexibility.
Why We Like It
We like that this home warranty company works for every type of homeowner—those who’ve just moved in, those enjoying their home or those ready to sell. Not only do home sellers have their own specific options under 2-10, but builders can also easily secure structural warranties for new builds on a soon-to-be forever home.
What We Don’t Like
It’s important to look closely at 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty’s cancellation policy, which may be too rigid for some. The policy cancellation cost starts at $25 for the first 30 days of being in the plan, but it increases to 10% of the plan cost after Day 30. We can appreciate that 2-10 allows customers to use their own contractors and technicians, but there is a pre-approval process and discrepancies in covering extra costs, which can make the repair process feel more complicated than it needs to be.
Who It’s Best For
Those on a strict budget will love what 2-10 offers for a competitive rate compared to the industry average; 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty’s Simply Kitchen plan is offered for as low as $32 monthly.
We gather and analyze consumer sentiment from a range of sources to create the Consumer Sentiment Index to determine customer satisfaction levels for each feature outlined below. This data is designed to give you an idea of real consumer experience of the services and product we review. This data is currently separate from our overall rating out of 5
2-10 Home Buyers Warranty has received largely negative feedback from customers. Dissatisfied customers express a range of issues, particularly with customer service and the company’s response times. Many are unhappy with denied claims, often citing pre-existing conditions as the reason, and lack of transparency in coverage limits. Some reports claim that contractors are unprofessional and unreliable with high fees for subpar repairs. A smaller number of customers indicate positive experiences, but the overall sentiment toward the company is negative.
Consumer Sentiment Index and Customer Survey
After surveying 1,800 consumers about their experience with their home warranty service, our team found overall positive sentiments among those who have 2-10 Home Warranty. Generally, 86% of respondents said they would recommend 2-10 to a friend, and 88% said they rate the value of the service highly.
It’s important to note that while other home warranty companies offer a set monthly premium and set service fee per plan, 2-10’s pricing depends on the service fee level you choose to pay for. Service fees with 2-10 range from $65 to $100, and the monthly cost hinges on the service fee level. For example, for the Simply Kitchen plan, you may pay $32 monthly if you opt for the $100 service call fee, or if you want to pay a $65 service call fee for the same plan, you would pay closer to $41 monthly.
Below, we’ve broken out the monthly fee tiers based on the service fees:
| PLAN NAME | $65 SERVICE FEE | $100 SERVICE FEE |
|---|---|---|
Simply Kitchen | $41 | $32 |
Complete Home | $61 | $52 |
Pinnacle Home | $81 | $72 |
Add-On Options:
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 
Best Service Response Times
Best Service Response Times
Home Warranty of America (HWA)
With nearly 30 years of experience in the home warranty industry, Home Warranty of America (HWA) offers two comprehensive plans—Select and Select Plus—which include protections for kitchen appliances like cooktops, ranges and dishwashers, while Select Plus expands coverage for air conditioning units as well as plumbing, heating and electrical systems.
Learn more: Home Warranty of America review
HWA’s two plans, Select and Select Plus, offer broad coverage for basic household appliances and systems, but these plans go beyond the norm, covering niche home features like saltwater pools, second refrigerators and sprinkler systems, which earned it major points in our analysis.
Why We Like It
We appreciate that HWA offers homeowners two comprehensive plans for fairly competitive prices—about $46 monthly for the Select Plan and about $60 monthly for Select Plus. Homeowners won’t miss out on crucial coverage with the more basic plan. We also love that the company has a 30-day money-back guarantee policy and that its pricing structure is straightforward with no age restrictions on covered items (so both young and old homes can be easily covered by HWA).
What We Don’t Like
Though HWA’s two plans include broader coverage of major systems, some homeowners might be looking for an appliances-only plan, which they won’t find with HWA. Also, you cannot choose your own contractor for repairs or replacements through HWA.
Who It’s Best For
HWA is a great option for those who are not picky about plan type—they may just want a base plan for the whole home that covers common systems and appliances. If you don’t require a specialized plan, HWA may be for you.
We gather and analyze consumer sentiment from a range of sources to create the Consumer Sentiment Index to determine customer satisfaction levels for each feature outlined below. This data is designed to give you an idea of real consumer experience of the services and product we review. This data is currently separate from our overall rating out of 5
Home Warranty of America receives mixed reviews from customers. Satisfied customers report helpful technicians and good customer service. But there are many negative reports from dissatisfied customers, too. Issues like poor coverage, feeling deceived, unexpected out-of-pocket expenses and long service wait times are prevalent against the company.
Consumer Sentiment Index and Customer Survey
Of the 1,800 respondents in our home warranty survey, 85% of those who have Home Warranty of America’s service said they would recommend it to a friend. Another 81% of respondents said they feel they are receiving great value for the money they pay Home Warranty of America.
Home Warranty of America has two major plans: Select and Select Plus. With service fees ranging between $75 to $100 and premiums ranging between $46 and $60, you can choose between a more basic and comprehensive plan.
| PLAN NAME | MONTHLY PREMIUM | SERVICE FEE |
|---|---|---|
Select | $46.08+ | $75 - $100 |
Select Plus | $59.92+ | $75 - $100 |
Add-On Options:
Best Cost and Plan Options
Best Cost and Plan Options
Liberty Home Guard
Liberty Home Guard has built a reputation for fairly positive consumer sentiments and customized options since its inception eight years ago. It offers an Appliance Guard plan for $49.99 monthly, a Systems Guard plan for $54.99 monthly and a Total Home Guard plan for $59.99 monthly. Plus, Liberty Home Guard also offers over 25 specific add-on coverage options so customers can customize their plans.
Learn more: Liberty Home Guard review
Liberty Home Guard’s higher-than-average customer satisfaction rating, its customer support options and three comprehensive plans make up for its lack in tenure.
Why We Like It
Liberty Home Guard customers can tailor a plan to their needs with the company’s extended list of add-on coverage options. We appreciate Liberty Home Guard’s coverage of rental properties and manufactured homes as well as single-family homes. Its overall customer support and satisfaction ratings are higher than those of most competitors.
What We Don’t Like
Liberty Home Guard is a bit pricier than many competitors, and customers should expect to see a $2,000 maximum payout per covered item within all of its plans. Plus, the contract cancellation fee is $50, which is higher than that of several competitors.
Who It’s Best For
Those who have a little extra in their budgets to spend on home warranty plans will find that Liberty Home Guard could be a good option for them. Plus, the positive overall customer rating could make the extra cost worth the peace of mind.
We gather and analyze consumer sentiment from a range of sources to create the Consumer Sentiment Index to determine customer satisfaction levels for each feature outlined below. This data is designed to give you an idea of real consumer experience of the services and product we review. This data is currently separate from our overall rating out of 5
Liberty Home Guard receives a mix of reviews from satisfied and dissatisfied customers. Many appreciate a pleasant customer service experience with polite personnel, timely assistance and clear communication. But there are also notable concerns from some customers regarding claim denials, delayed service and limited coverage. Some customers report the company’s policies are not as transparent as they should be.
Consumer Sentiment Index and Customer Survey
In our recent home warranty survey, we asked 1,800 people about how they felt about their providers. Those that have Liberty Home Guard had quite positive sentiments overall. A whopping 89% of respondents said they would recommend Liberty to a friend or family member, while another 87% of respondents said they are pleased with the value of the service they’re receiving for what they’re paying.
Liberty Home Guard offers three tiers of coverage, starting with a simpler Appliance Guard plan for $49.99. You can also choose the Systems Guard plan for around $55 monthly if you’re looking for systems coverage, or you can combine both in Liberty’s Total Home Guard plan for $59.99. Below are the premiums and service fees broken down by plan:
| PLAN NAME | MONTHLY PREMIUM | SERVICE FEE |
|---|---|---|
Appliance Guard | $49.99 | $65 - $125 |
Systems Guard | $54.99 | $65 - $125 |
Total Home Guard | $59.99 | $65 - $125 |
Add-On Options:
Best for Unique Home Features
Best for Unique Home Features
American Home Shield
As a company with one of the longest tenures in the home warranty industry, American Home Shield offers three plans on a monthly and annual contract basis. The company’s ShieldSiver plan starts as low as $29.99 per month and covers major systems, while ShieldGold, which starts at $49.99 monthly, covers the above and major appliances. For $79.99 monthly, customers who opt for the ShieldPlatinum plan can get the coverage of Silver and Gold and see their appliance cap rise to $4,000 per item, and much more.
Learn more: American Home Shield review
American Home Shield offers three value-packed plans, starting with the ShieldSilver plan, which is lower than many competitors’ base plans. Once customers reach ShieldPlatinum status, the raised appliance cap, an additional $1,000 in roof leak coverage, $250 to address code compliance problems, free HVAC tune-ups and unlimited AC refrigerant coverage could make a $79.99 monthly fee and up to $125 service fee worth it long-term.
Why We Like It
The lowest plan American Home Shield offers is a more affordable option than many competitors. We appreciate that some of the elements its base plan offers, like coverage for pre-existing conditions and code violations, are not often included in competitors’ plans, which helps American Home Shield stand out. We also liked that American Home Shield had plan coverage for those who live in condos, manufactured or mobile homes or who own rental properties.
What We Don’t Like
American Home Shield isn’t available everywhere—it doesn’t currently cover Alaska or Washington, D.C. Also, while it’s technically allowed for customers to choose their own technicians, those technicians must go through a company approval process, which can be an irksome detail for some.
Who It’s Best For
Those who have condos, rental properties or manufactured/mobile homes and want total coverage may find it from American Home Shield.
We gather and analyze consumer sentiment from a range of sources to create the Consumer Sentiment Index to determine customer satisfaction levels for each feature outlined below. This data is designed to give you an idea of real consumer experience of the services and product we review. This data is currently separate from our overall rating out of 5
Some American Home Shield (AHS) customers report positive experiences, impressed by quick and professional service and efficient high-quality repairs. Despite some satisfied customers, many report high pricing, poor claim resolution, unqualified contractors and vague contract terms.
Consumer Sentiment Index and Customer Survey
After analyzing results of our home warranty survey with 1,800 participants, 83% of those that chose American Home Shield as their home warranty company said they would happily recommend the company to a friend or family member. Another 78% of respondents also said they were satisfied with the value they received for the service with American Home Shield.
American Home Shield’s three plans are all fairly comprehensive. Shield Silver pricing starts at $29.99 monthly while Shield Gold can cost closer to $50. Shield Platinum, which includes all the comprehensive coverage as well as higher caps on appliances, will set you back $79.99. With a $100 to $125 service fee, monthly costs for American Home Shield’s lowest-tiered plan are under other competitors’ base plans.
| PLAN NAME | MONTHLY PREMIUM | SERVICE FEE |
|---|---|---|
Shield Silver | $29.99+ | $100 - $125 |
Shield Gold | $49.99+ | $100 - $125 |
Shield Platinum | $79.99+ | $100 - $125 |
Add-On Options:
Best Value
Best Value
ARW Home
With three tiered plans to choose from and all 50 states covered, ARW Home offers a variety of options with different price points for all homeowners to consider. ARW Home’s Kitchen Plus plan starts around $40 monthly and includes coverage specifically for appliances like refrigerators, microwaves, dishwashers and kitchen exhaust fans, as well as water heaters and interior electrical systems.
The next-higher-tiered Platinum Plan covers Kitchen Plus and more systems like central ACs and heating and washers and dryers for around $65 per month, while the Platinum Premier Plan adds even more coverage for items like plumbing for around $75 monthly.
Learn more: ARW Home review
While many competitors offer two strong plans, ARW Home offers three, including one focused on kitchen appliances. This offering gives homeowners more pricing flexibility and doesn’t lock you into a more comprehensive plan than you need. We also appreciate that the pool, sewer line and water line are optional add-ons.
Why We Like It
On top of ideal pricing structure and plan options, homeowners can look forward to choosing their own technician. Plus, those who live in older homes won’t be susceptible to age-of-system denial—as long as your system or appliance is in good shape, it can likely be serviced.
What We Don’t Like
ARW Home’s cancellation policy is more rigid and costs more ($45) than many competitors. If you don’t have the budget flexibility to risk paying a cancellation fee or you’re looking for a more straightforward cancellation process, this may not be the company for you.
Who It’s Best For
ARW Home is best for those needing a specific kitchen appliances plan or those who want to choose their own technician for repairs.
We gather and analyze consumer sentiment from a range of sources to create the Consumer Sentiment Index to determine customer satisfaction levels for each feature outlined below. This data is designed to give you an idea of real consumer experience of the services and product we review. This data is currently separate from our overall rating out of 5
ARW Home feedback from customers is mixed. Some customers report enjoying positive interactions and quick claim resolutions. In contrast, other customers report poor customer service, misleading claims coverage, difficult claim processing and difficulty canceling policies.
Consumer Sentiment Index and Customer Survey
Of the 1,800 people who responded to our most recent home warranty customer satisfaction survey, those that have ARW Home were enthusiastically satisfied with its offerings and service. About 93% of respondents said they would recommend ARW’s home warranty service to friends or family, and 92% said they felt happy with the value of the service they’re getting.
ARW Home’s three plans are neatly organized based on need. For those who only want coverage for kitchen appliances, the home warranty provider’s Kitchen Plus plan, starting at $39.99 monthly, could be a good option. If you’d prefer more broad coverage of appliances and systems, you may find what you need in the Platinum Plan (starting at $64.99 monthly), or the Platinum Premier Plan, which offers even more coverage for existing systems and appliances as well as more niche items for $74.99 monthly. ARW keeps a flat $55 service fee across the three plans.
| PLAN NAME | MONTHLY PREMIUM | SERVICE FEE |
|---|---|---|
Kitchen Plus | $39.99+ | $55 |
Platinum | $64.99+ | $55 |
Platinum Premier Plan | $74.99+ | $55 |
Add-On Options:
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 Best Add-On Coverages
Best Add-On Coverages
The Home Service Club
Serving all 50 states, The Home Service Club offers two main plan options—Standard and Comprehensive—which range from around $51 per month for Standard to $62 for Comprehensive. Both plans offer standard, broad coverage for household appliances and systems, while the Comprehensive Plan offers extended coverage as well as new coverage for pest control, sump pumps and more. With a long a la carte list of additional services, The Home Service Club offers versatility and customization that may entice those living in older homes or who need more specific plans.
Learn more: Home Service Club review
We appreciate that The Home Service Club offers homeowners two solid and comprehensive plans as well as an a la carte list of add-ons.
Why We Like It
We like The Home Service Club’s two plan options, which cover household appliance and system basics and more with the Comprehensive Plan and additional services list. You can also choose your own technician if you go with The Home Service Club, which may appeal to those who have great existing relationships with their contractors.
What We Don’t Like
With service fees up to $125, The Home Service Club isn’t the least expensive option. Also, those who want any less coverage than the standard plan may not find The Home Service Club to be a good choice for them.
Who It’s Best For
Homeowners who have fairly new appliances or live in newer properties or condos may find The Home Service Club to be a good fit. Though the service fees are higher than those of many other competitors, living in a newer residence could help reduce the number of issues.
We gather and analyze consumer sentiment from a range of sources to create the Consumer Sentiment Index to determine customer satisfaction levels for each feature outlined below. This data is designed to give you an idea of real consumer experience of the services and product we review. This data is currently separate from our overall rating out of 5
Although some customers report positive experiences with The Home Service Club due to efficient service and helpful customer service representatives, other customer opinions are largely poor. Dissatisfied customers report negative customer service experiences, communication difficulties and issues receiving funds. Overall, the general sentiment is mixed.
Consumer Sentiment Index and Customer Survey
In our recent home warranty survey with 1,800 respondents, those who have The Home Service Club were overall happy with the company’s service and offerings. In fact, 90% of respondents who have The Home Service Club said they would recommend it to a friend, while the same percentage of people said they felt the value of what they were receiving was worth the price.
You can choose from two major plans with The Home Service Club: Standard Coverage for around $51 monthly or Comprehensive Coverage for $62 monthly.
| PLAN NAME | MONTHLY PREMIUM | SERVICE FEE |
|---|---|---|
Standard Coverage | $51.25 | $65 - $125 |
Comprehensive Coverage | $62.50 | $65 - $125 |
Add-On Options:
Best for Older Homes
Best for Older Homes
Cinch Home Services
Cinch Home Services (once known as Cross Country Services) has been in the home warranty business for over 45 years. Cinch created three separate plans—one for appliances, one for systems and one combining both plans—for around $35, $35 and $45 per month, respectively. The Appliances Plan covers all basic home appliances like refrigerators, microwaves and dishwashers, while the Built-in Systems Plan focuses its coverage on HVAC, ductwork, plumbing and electrical systems but covers more. The Complete Home Plan covers all of the above.
Learn more: Cinch Home Services review
We love a three-plan tiered approach, which Cinch does well. Homeowners who only need appliances or systems covered have those options, while those who want comprehensive coverage can get it for a relatively low price—$45 per month on average. We also appreciate that Cinch has 24/7 customer support phone service, which should help give homeowners peace of mind, should something happen on a Sunday evening.
Why We Like It
Cinch offers interesting perks like a 180-day workmanship guarantee and a $500 reimbursement toward homeowners’ insurance deductibles, which sweeten the deal of an already cost-effective plan structure.
What We Don’t Like
Cinch’s $150 service fee per visit is one of the highest among major competitors, making it a pricier option for budget-conscious homeowners.
Who It’s Best For
Homeowners who prefer to have more than two options, those who are looking to cover just appliances or just systems or those who are looking for a good plan on a budget may find that Cinch is a great option for them.
We gather and analyze consumer sentiment from a range of sources to create the Consumer Sentiment Index to determine customer satisfaction levels for each feature outlined below. This data is designed to give you an idea of real consumer experience of the services and product we review. This data is currently separate from our overall rating out of 5
Most customers report a negative experience with Cinch Home Services. Complaints like poor customer service, communication difficulties, long wait times and unresolved service requests are prevalent. Many users have also expressed dissatisfaction with the claims process and are unhappy with the frequent delays, issues with reimbursement, and technicians who fail to resolve problems effectively.
Consumer Sentiment Index and Customer Survey
Of the 1,800 total respondents in our recent home warranty survey, those that chose Cinch reported neutral to slightly positive feedback. In particular, over 80% of respondents would recommend the service in general to a friend while 72% feel the value of the service matches or exceeds what they’re paying.
Cinch’s three plans include an appliance option for $36 monthly, a systems plan for the same price or a combined Complete Home plan for just over $45 monthly. Depending on the level of coverage you’re looking for, you may find a more comprehensive plan like Cinch’s Complete Home is ideal, or if you prefer an appliances-only or systems-only plan, you can choose between the two below.
| PLAN NAME | MONTHLY PREMIUM | SERVICE FEE |
|---|---|---|
Appliances | $35.99+ | $100 - $150 |
Built-In Systems | $35.99+ | $100 - $150 |
Complete Home | $45.99+ | $100 - $150 |
Add-On Options:
Best Pricing Structure
Best Pricing Structure
AFC Home Warranty
Of all the companies on this list, AFC Home Warranty is the only company to offer four comprehensive home warranty plans. Starting at $41 monthly, AFC’s Silver Plan covers nine systems, including the refrigerator, oven, range and laundry machines, while the Gold Plan (starting at around $55 monthly) combines 15 appliances and systems, like plumbing and electrical systems.
AFC Home Warranty’s Platinum Plan (which starts at around $64 monthly) expands coverage to built-in microwaves, plumbing stoppages and more, while the Diamond Plan (costing around $152 monthly) goes as far as covering electronics (like smartphones) and exterior sewer and water lines.
Learn more: AFC Home Warranty review
Though AFC Home Warranty doesn’t serve all 50 states, it makes up for its lack of coverage in Washington, Hawaii and California by offering the most in the other 47. The company offers four comprehensive plans starting around $41 monthly that address every level of coverage in most homes.
Why We Like It
We appreciate the total coverage of the four home warranty plans offered to homeowners, plus the option to use your own technician versus one the company assigns. We also like that customers can opt for a month-to-month contract instead of an annual plan.
What We Don’t Like
If you are looking for a cost-effective option, AFC Home Warranty may not be for you. Not only are the service fees up to $125 per visit, but cancellation fees are as pricey as they come—$75. If you live in an older home, it’s also important to know that the company doesn’t cover any known or unknown pre-existing conditions.
Who It’s Best For
Homeowners who want the ultimate coverage (as well as additional protection plans) will have a lot to choose from with AFC Home Warranty.
We gather and analyze consumer sentiment from a range of sources to create the Consumer Sentiment Index to determine customer satisfaction levels for each feature outlined below. This data is designed to give you an idea of real consumer experience of the services and product we review. This data is currently separate from our overall rating out of 5
AFC Home Warranty receives mixed reviews. Some users report an easy sign-up process and are impressed with the depth of knowledge of the company’s representatives. However, many users express dissatisfaction with AFCs customer service and claims processing. Complaints about claim denials and inadequate reimbursement amounts for repairs or replacements are common.
Consumer Sentiment Index and Customer Survey
We surveyed 1,800 respondents about their home warranty services. Those who chose AFC Home Warranty as their home warranty provider have fairly positive sentiments overall. About 87% of respondents said they would recommend AFC Home Warranty to a friend or family member, and nearly the same percentage (86%) said they felt the value of their service matched or exceeded what they were paying.
AFC Home Warranty’s four plan options exceed the majority of the competition’s three-plan offering. It’s important to note that every level except for the Silver Plan offers coverage for appliances and systems but that coverage grows as you level up your plan. The Gold Plan, starting at $55 monthly, offers coverage for fifteen appliances and systems, while the Platinum Plan, starting at $64 monthly, offers extras like plumbing coverage.
The Diamond Plan, which starts at about $95 monthly, goes above and beyond by covering tech like smartphones and sewer lines.
| PLAN NAME | MONTHLY PREMIUM | SERVICE FEE |
|---|---|---|
Silver Plan | $41+ | $75 - $125 |
Gold Plan | $55+ | $75 - $125 |
Platinum Plan | $64+ | $75 - $125 |
Diamond Plan | $95+ | $75 - $125 |
Add-On Options:
Best for Contract Terms
Best for Contract Terms
Choice Home Warranty
Serving all 50 states, Choice Home Warranty offers two straightforward plans—the Basic Plan and the Total Plan. The Basic plan covers common home appliances like ovens, ranges, stoves and dishwashers, as well as heating, electrical and plumbing systems. Choice’s Total plan expands coverage widely to AC systems as well as other appliances like dryers.
Learn more: Choice Home Warranty review
We like that despite only being given two choices, homeowners have two comprehensive coverage options between the Basic Plan (averaging $46 per month) and the $55-monthly Total Plan. Customers may also be interested in Choice’s 24/7 phone service and round-the-clock customer support.
Why We Like It
Choice Home Warranty’s two plans cover 14+ systems and appliances, which rivals some competitors. The higher-coverage plan costs around $55 monthly and service fees cap at $100.
What We Don’t Like
Though the price may be right, positive customer reviews are lacking on a variety of platforms. We also don’t like that homeowners can’t choose their own contractors, though this feature is not uncommon in the home warranty industry.
Who It’s Best For
Homeowners who want to find a comprehensive home warranty plan for the same price as most other companies’ mid-tier plans may be interested in what Choice has to offer.
We gather and analyze consumer sentiment from a range of sources to create the Consumer Sentiment Index to determine customer satisfaction levels for each feature outlined below. This data is designed to give you an idea of real consumer experience of the services and product we review. This data is currently separate from our overall rating out of 5
Choice Home Warranty customers report some positive experiences with quick service and courteous staff, but many others are negative. Dissatisfied customers report unfair denials, unexpected out-of-pocket costs and technicians not resolving issues effectively.
Consumer Sentiment Index and Customer Survey
Of the 1,800 respondents to our home warranty survey, 76% of those that have Choice Home Warranty said they would recommend the service to a friend or family member. Also, 79% of respondents said they felt the value was worth the money they were spending on the service.
Choice Home Warranty offers two plans: The Basic Plan starting at $47 monthly and the Total Plan starting at $55 monthly. Both plans are comprehensive and cover both appliances and systems, but the Total Plan throws in extra coverage for items like AC systems and dryers.
| PLAN NAME | MONTHLY PREMIUM | SERVICE FEE |
|---|---|---|
Basic Plan | $46.67+ | $100 |
Total Plan | $55.00+ | $100 |
Add-On Options:
Best for High Coverage Maximums
Best for High Coverage Maximums
First American Home Warranty
With 40 years of experience in the industry, First American Home Warranty offers low premiums and a variety of comprehensive plans, including a Starter Plan, an Essentials Plan and a Premier Plan. For $42 per month, the Basic Plan covers all appliances and even some plumbing and electrical work, and the Essentials Plan adds on coverage for HVAC and expanded appliance coverage for $57 monthly.
The Premier Plan builds on even more HVAC coverage and can help with garage door repair and replacement under an average monthly fee of $77.
Learn more: First American Home Warranty review
First American Home Warranty’s three-tiered pricing system is overall more affordable than many competitors, which helps it stand out among the competition. Despite the fact that the company offers coverage for homes in only 37 states, it makes up for its lack of nationwide availability with a budget-friendly premium plan and high coverage maximums.
Why We Like It
Besides its affordability, we appreciate First American Home Warranty’s flexibility when it comes to customizing plans. If you have a special house that requires add-ons, First American offers a handful of coverage options like:
What We Don’t Like
If you don’t live in one of the 37 states First American covers, you are out of luck and won’t have the option to sign on. We don’t love that First American doesn’t allow you to choose your own technician. Also, it’s important to note that while First American is well-known for its high coverage maximums, it has holes in its coverage.
The company doesn’t typically cover system components that aren’t considered “essential” for the equipment to function, including space heaters, heating system filters, kitchen appliance knobs and doorbells.
Who It’s Best For
First American Home Warranty is best for those who are shopping for a comprehensive home warranty plan on a budget, who don’t have a preference on a specific technician and live in one of the covered states.
We gather and analyze consumer sentiment from a range of sources to create the Consumer Sentiment Index to determine customer satisfaction levels for each feature outlined below. This data is designed to give you an idea of real consumer experience of the services and product we review. This data is currently separate from our overall rating out of 5
Overall, customer experiences with First American Home Warranty appear to be mixed, with some customers reporting positive interactions. However, most report overall dissatisfaction with claim denials, service delays and poor communication. Customers also report unqualified contractors, unresolved problems and unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.
Consumer Sentiment Index and Customer Survey
After conducting a home warranty survey and receiving 1,800 responses, those that have First American Home Warranty responded positively overall about the company. About 88% of respondents said they would recommend First American to a friend or family member, while 71% believe the value of the service matches or exceeds what they’re paying.
First American Home Warranty offers three plans ranging from $42 to $77 monthly. The Basic Plan, which starts at $42, covers all appliances, while the Essentials Plan, starting at $57, adds on HVAC coverage. The Premier Plan, which starts at $77, includes even more HVAC coverage as well as coverage for garage door repair and replacement.
| PLAN NAME | MONTHLY PREMIUM | SERVICE FEE |
|---|---|---|
Basic Plan | $42.00+ | $75 - $125 |
Essentials Plan | $57.00+ | $75 - $125 |
Premier Plan | $77.00+ | $75 - $125 |
Add-On Options:
You should expect home warranty costs to be about $325 to $1,200 per year on average or about $57 monthly. Average monthly costs for the lowest-tiered plan with the least amount of coverage hovers around $27 while the highest cost reflects the average plan with the most comprehensive coverage. Service fees can range between $50 and $150. Premiums are the cost you’ll pay each month whether you use your home warranty or not, while service fees are what you’ll pay each time a pro visits your home for a service call. You may be able to pay a lower service call fee if you pay a higher premium or vice versa, so keep that in mind when shopping around.
These numbers were fairly consistent with the responses from our home warranty survey, with a majority of respondents (81%) citing their home warranty costs at around $801 to $900 per month.
While it can be tempting to choose the absolute cheapest home warranty company or plan, we recommend considering other factors beside cost, including coverage, reviews and service guarantees.
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For a monthly cost and service fee, a home warranty can help reduce the overall cost of major repairs. Without one, you can expect to pay up to $2,000 out of pocket for common system and appliance issues. See a breakdown of typical repairs and their associated costs below:
| COMMON REPAIRS | COST |
|---|---|
| Leaky faucet | $150 - $350 |
| Roof repairs | $950 |
| Water heater repairs | $600 |
| HVAC issues | $215 - $1,200+ |
| Electrical issues | $250 - $1,000+ |
| Septic issues | $1,775 |
| Dishwasher repairs | $250 |
A home warranty should be tailored to your home. Before you lock down a company, it’s crucial to do the following:
On average, home warranty plans cost between $300 and $600 annually, and you should expect service fees ranging from $50 to $150, depending on the company and your chosen plan. It’s important to feel confident in your financial commitment on a monthly and yearly basis.
What do you need coverage for in your home? Some people may only need coverage for appliances, like washers and dryers, or systems like HVAC and electrical, while others may want both. Get a clear picture of the items covered in each home warranty plan you review.
Search each home warranty company on sites like the Better Business Bureau, Yelp and Google to get a sense for how current and past customers feel about the business. Search specifically for local reviews and those that mention the specific issues you want to cover.
Home Warranty Reviews
Once you narrow down your choices to a few home warranty companies, you’ll want to reach out for quotes from a few different companies. This will help you compare costs as well as what is included in each plan.
Obtain a sample contract for each provider and read the fine print to ensure you understand everything. Each home warranty provider outlines its coverage restrictions in the fine print. For example, a home warranty company may offer up to $3,000 for HVAC repairs throughout your contract period.
There may also be other restrictions or policies to note in these sample contracts too, such as coverage for pre-existing conditions, whether you choose your own technician, typical response times, any workmanship guarantees and if you’re subject to any cancellation fees.
A home warranty company becomes important when an issue arises. Inevitably, you’ll have to make a claim, so it’s pivotal to research a company’s claim process before signing on. Some companies offer mobile apps that simplify making a claim, while others allow online submissions. Separately, you should ask each company you speak with about their average response times from putting in the claim to solving the issue.
Coverage varies provider by provider, but most home warranty companies cover major household appliances like dishwashers, refrigerators, ovens, washers and dryers, as well as major systems like HVAC, plumbing and electrical. Many companies offer combination plans that are more comprehensive in nature, blanketing coverage over your whole home. Some companies dig deeper and offer more specialized coverage for things like pools, septic systems and sump pumps.
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Many home warranty companies won’t cover structural issues (like windows, floors or doors), cosmetic damage to appliances or systems, natural disaster and weather-related damage and most areas outside the main house, like outdoor plumbing or sewer lines. Coverage for appliances or systems with pre-existing conditions is often limited. There are also restrictions based on how large your house is, and don’t forget about coverage caps.
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Home warranties can be worth it for many homeowners, but it’s a unique decision. For instance, a home warranty might be a better investment for someone with an older home where repairs needs might often arise than for those living in a new home with appliances still covered under manufacturers’ warranties.
We recommend considering the cost of your home warranty and service fees and comparing it to your expected average home repair costs. “Always ask for clarification on exclusions to ensure you understand what is and what isn’t covered,” says Marcus Hill, a member of Forbes Home Advisory Board with two decades of experience as a home appraiser and real estate investor. “Watch out for excessive service call fees or unclear fee structures. Some companies charge high fees every time you request service, even if the repair is denied. Ensure the fee structure is reasonable and transparent.”
You should also weigh how much you value peace of mind and check to see if your home qualifies for specific plans due to age and location. Finally, get several quotes from different companies to get the full picture of cost.
Earlier in 2025 we asked 1,800 homeowners how they felt about their home warranty policies, what they paid and how much they used them. Here are some of the most eye-opening findings:
To determine the best home warranty companies, we analyzed 19 companies and 58 plans across several different attributes, including our in-house consumer sentiment analysis which included over 146,000 first-person insights. We also gathered and compared more than 100 price quotes to determine the best value.
You can find out more about how Forbes Home rates home warranty companies on our detailed methodology page.
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Home warranties are an optional policy homeowners can purchase to protect their systems and appliances. For example, when your dishwasher breaks and leaves you with a costly bill, a home warranty can step in and help to cover those costs. Home warranties typically cover repairs or replacements of appliances and last for a set period of time. This type of warranty is not included with the purchase of a home and comes at an added cost to the homeowner, paid either via contract or annual or monthly fees.
The best home warranty company will provide a timely claims process and have a fee structure that meets your budget. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) suggests asking yourself the following questions before making a commitment:
Some of the complaints we’ve seen about home warranties include caps on claims, the inability to choose your own contractor and delays in connecting with a company to get a contractor to come out to your home. However, some complaints can stem from points in the contract that may not have been explained or addressed in detail. To avoid purchasing a home warranty that won’t provide what you need, ensure you review the contract thoroughly before committing.
Homeowners insurance typically covers disasters and other covered incidents that can affect your home’s structure. These are typically mandatory in order to obtain a mortgage loan. Home warranties are optional and cover routine home repairs and replacements on covered systems and appliances.
With a home warranty, you’ll select a plan and pay a premium, usually monthly. Once you have a repair that should be covered under your plan, you’ll typically request service through the company and pay a service fee for a technician to come to your home. From there, if the repair is covered under your plan, they’ll perform the service or follow-up with any additional info.
Sami Allen is the managing editor at Forbes Home, with over seven years of experience in the home space and 10 years of editing experience.
Kristin is a lead editor at Forbes Home and has nearly a decade of professional experience as a writer and editor. She's previously worked at sites like Talking Points Memo, Insider, Delish, Angi and HomeAdvisor. She has a passion for lifestyle topics and has extensive experience researching and reporting on topics that will help make your house a home.
