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7 best home warranty companies in Decatur, Georgia
Jesus Sanchez GarciaHome improvement writer
Jesus Sanchez Garcia is a senior writer for USA TODAY Homefront. His expertise focuses on home ...
Updated Jun 22, 2024
Get a quote from our top provider, Liberty Home Guard
We've ranked the top 7 home warranty companies that operate within 50 miles of Decatur. We base our ranking off average customer ratings weighted against the number of reviews. For more information, check out our full methodology.
Home warranties give you a financial buffer to fix or replace appliances that suddenly fail. For a monthly fee, these policies insure items like AC units and refrigerators when they stop working from regular wear and tear.
Many crucial home components start having issues before hitting the 10 to 15-year mark, according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors. HVAC systems typically last just seven to 25 years. Water heaters normally last six to 12 years, and most appliances today go kaput after about 20 years.
If your Decatur home has a furnace, dishwasher or any other everyday appliance within that age range, you will likely experience an untimely breakdown. The top home warranty companies listed below provide generous coverage at affordable rates.
Decatur's wet, cool weather strains roofs and HVAC systems, so we recommend a home warranty to protect yourself from sudden breakdown repair costs. The providers we suggest offer strong coverage options and even a few added perks.
- Extends 60-day workmanship guarantee
- Holds high customer ratings
- Offers customization with 38 add-ons
- Covers rust and corrosion damage
- Offers comprehensive coverage limits
- Provides flexible service fees
- Charges low premiums
- Includes roof-leak coverage
- Offers solid HVAC coverage
Find the best home warranty for you in Decatur
Here's our list of the best home warranty companies in Decatur:
Average monthly costs: $22.00 - $80.00
2-10 offers flexible service fees and perks like an appliance color-match program. Through its "Even If" guarantee, it also refunds service fees if repairing or replacing a covered item isn't possible.
What we like
- Offers a $25,000 annual coverage cap
- Pairs plans with a plan-length workmanship guarantee
- Offers unique perks such as color matching appliance replacements
What we don't like
- Charges a monthly processing fee if you choose monthly premiums
- Excludes washer and dryer coverage from most plans
Plan Name
Simply HVAC
Service Fee
$65 - $100
Monthly Cost
$50 - $39
Items covered
Air conditioning, Heat pump, Heating system, Thermostat.
Add-on items
Luxury package (increases coverage limits), Washer and dryer, Roof leak, HVAC surplus, Garage door opener, Additional refrigerator, Additional wine cooler, Additional freestanding freezer, Additional wet bar refrigerator, Pool, Septic system, Well pump, Water softener, Extended pipe leak, Preseason HVAC tune-up.
Plan Name
Simply Kitchen
Service Fee
$65 - $100
Monthly Cost
$31 - $22
Items covered
Built-in microwave, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Oven, Range, Refrigerator with ice maker/crusher.
Add-on items
Luxury package (increases coverage limits), Washer and dryer, Roof leak, HVAC surplus, Garage door opener, Additional refrigerator, Additional wine cooler, Additional freestanding freezer, Additional wet bar refrigerator, Pool, Septic system, Well pump, Water softener, Extended pipe leak, Preseason HVAC tune-up.
Plan Name
Essential Home
Service Fee
$65 - $100
Monthly Cost
$61 - $51
Items covered
Air conditioning, Heat pump, Heating system, Thermostat, Built-in microwave, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Oven, Range, Refrigerator with ice maker/crusher.
Add-on items
Luxury package (increases coverage limits), Washer and dryer, Roof leak, HVAC surplus, Garage door opener, Additional refrigerator, Additional wine cooler, Additional freestanding freezer, Additional wet bar refrigerator, Pool, Septic system, Well pump, Water softener, Extended pipe leak, Preseason HVAC tune-up.
Plan Name
Complete Home
Service Fee
$65 - $100
Monthly Cost
$60 - $51
Items covered
Air conditioning, Heat pump, Heating system, Thermostat, Drain line stoppages, Plumbing system, Plumbing valves, Sump pump, Toilets, Water heater, Doorbells, Electrical systems, Built-in microwave, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Oven, Range, Refrigerator with ice maker/crusher.
Add-on items
Luxury package (increases coverage limits), Washer and dryer, Roof leak, HVAC surplus, Garage door opener, Additional refrigerator, Additional wine cooler, Additional freestanding freezer, Additional wet bar refrigerator, Pool, Septic system, Well pump, Water softener, Extended pipe leak, Preseason HVAC tune-up.
Plan Name
Pinnacle Home
Service Fee
$65 - $100
Monthly Cost
$80 - $71
Items covered
Air conditioning, Heat pump, Heating system, Thermostat, Drain line stoppages, Hose bibs, Plumbing system, Plumbing valves, Polybutylene and PEX plumbing systems, Sump pump, Toilets, Water heater, Attic and bathroom exhaust fans, Burglar and fire alarms, Doorbells, Electrical systems, Built-in microwave, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Oven, Range, Refrigerator with ice maker/crusher.
Add-on items
Luxury package (increases coverage limits), Washer and dryer, Roof leak, HVAC surplus, Garage door opener, Additional refrigerator, Additional wine cooler, Additional freestanding freezer, Additional wet bar refrigerator, Pool, Septic system, Well pump, Water softener, Extended pipe leak, Preseason HVAC tune-up.
Average monthly costs: $49.99 - $59.99
Liberty Home Guard offers the largest number of optional add-ons compared to any provider in this article — 38 in total. It also has plans featuring a 60-day workmanship guarantee on completed repairs.
What we like
- Holds high ratings among customer service reviews
- Covers repairs with a 60-day workmanship guarantee
- Offers an extensive list of 40+ add-on coverages
- Provides an easy claims process
What we don't like
- Lacks transparency on service call fee pricing
- Excludes coverage for known or unknown pre-existing conditions
Plan Name
Appliance Guard
Service Fee
$65 - $125
Monthly Cost
$49
Items covered
Built-in microwave ovens, Ceiling and exhaust fans, Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Dishwashers, Garbage disposals, Garage door openers, Ranges/ovens/cooktops, Refrigerator with ice maker and display.
Add-on items
Additional spa, Carpet cleaning, Casita guest unit, Central vacuum, Ejector pump, Electronics protection, Freestanding ice maker, Generator, Grinder pump, Gutter cleaning, In-fridge ice maker, Instant hot water dispenser, Lawn sprinkler system, Lighting fixtures, Limited roof leak, Pest control, Plumbing fixtures, Pool and spa, Power washing (exterior floor0, Pro-series clothes dryer, Pro-series dishwasher coverage, Pro-series microwave, Pro-series range/oven/cooktop coverage, Pro-series refrigerator coverage, Pro-series standalone freezer, Pro-series washing machines, Re-key services, Reverse osmosis water filter system, Saltwater pool, Second refrigerator, Septic system pumping, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Swamp cooler, Trash compactor, TV mounting (up to 65 in), TV mounting (up to 85 in), Water dispenser water line, Water softener, Well pump, Window washing/cleaning, Wine cooler/fridge.
Plan Name
Systems Guard
Service Fee
$65 - $125
Monthly Cost
$54
Items covered
Air conditioning, Ductwork, Heating, Electrical, Plumbing, Water heaters.
Add-on items
Additional spa, Carpet cleaning, Casita guest unit, Central vacuum, Ejector pump, Electronics protection, Freestanding ice maker, Generator, Grinder pump, Gutter cleaning, In-fridge ice maker, Instant hot water dispenser, Lawn sprinkler system, Lighting fixtures, Limited roof leak, Pest control, Plumbing fixtures, Pool and spa, Power washing (exterior floor0, Pro-series clothes dryer, Pro-series dishwasher coverage, Pro-series microwave, Pro-series range/oven/cooktop coverage, Pro-series refrigerator coverage, Pro-series standalone freezer, Pro-series washing machines, Re-key services, Reverse osmosis water filter system, Saltwater pool, Second refrigerator, Septic system pumping, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Swamp cooler, Trash compactor, TV mounting (up to 65 in), TV mounting (up to 85 in), Water dispenser water line, Water softener, Well pump, Window washing/cleaning, Wine cooler/fridge.
Plan Name
Total Home Guard
Service Fee
$65 - $125
Monthly Cost
$59
Items covered
Air conditioning, Ductwork, Heating, Electrical, Plumbing, Water heaters, Built-in microwave ovens, Ceiling and exhaust fans, Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Dishwashers, Garbage disposals, Garage door openers, Ranges/ovens/cooktops, Refrigerator with ice maker and display.
Add-on items
Additional spa, Carpet cleaning, Casita guest unit, Central vacuum, Ejector pump, Electronics protection, Freestanding ice maker, Generator, Grinder pump, Gutter cleaning, In-fridge ice maker, Instant hot water dispenser, Lawn sprinkler system, Lighting fixtures, Limited roof leak, Pest control, Plumbing fixtures, Pool and spa, Power washing (exterior floor0, Pro-series clothes dryer, Pro-series dishwasher coverage, Pro-series microwave, Pro-series range/oven/cooktop coverage, Pro-series refrigerator coverage, Pro-series standalone freezer, Pro-series washing machines, Re-key services, Reverse osmosis water filter system, Saltwater pool, Second refrigerator, Septic system pumping, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Swamp cooler, Trash compactor, TV mounting (up to 65 in), TV mounting (up to 85 in), Water dispenser water line, Water softener, Well pump, Window washing/cleaning, Wine cooler/fridge.
Average monthly costs: $48.98 - $59.99
Elite Home Warranty offers fully customizable plans with 90-day workmanship guarantees. Customers can build a unique coverage solution that meets their needs.
What we like
- Allows you to choose your technician
- Extends a 90-day workmanship guarantee
- Offers more than 25 add-ons
What we don't like
- Charges higher service fees for high-end appliances
- Doesn't provide an online quote
- Limits repair and replacement coverage caps for older items
Plan Name
Elite Appliances
Service Fee
$70
Monthly Cost
$48
Items covered
Built-in microwave, Ceiling fans, Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Garbage disposal, Oven, Range, Refrigerator, ice maker, and water dispenser.
Add-on items
annual maintenance, attic exhaust fan, central vacuum, effluent pump, ejector pump, freestanding freezer, freestanding icemaker, freestanding spa equipment, generator, geothermal heating and cooling system, grinder pump, guest house, jetted hot tub, lawn sprinkler system, lift pump, limited roof-leak repair, pool and spa equipment, pool equipment, premium appliances, premium benefits, premium systems, premium systems plus, service line, septic system, sump pump, swamp cooler, water filtration system, water softener, well pump, wine cooler.
Plan Name
Elite Systems
Service Fee
$70
Monthly Cost
$54
Items covered
Electrical system, Garage door opener, Air conditioning system, Heating system, Plumbing fixtures, Plumbing stoppages, Plumbing system, Water heater.
Add-on items
annual maintenance, attic exhaust fan, central vacuum, effluent pump, ejector pump, freestanding freezer, freestanding icemaker, freestanding spa equipment, generator, geothermal heating and cooling system, grinder pump, guest house, jetted hot tub, lawn sprinkler system, lift pump, limited roof-leak repair, pool and spa equipment, pool equipment, premium appliances, premium benefits, premium systems, premium systems plus, service line, septic system, sump pump, swamp cooler, water filtration system, water softener, well pump, wine cooler.
Plan Name
Elite Complete
Service Fee
$70
Monthly Cost
$59
Items covered
Built-in microwave, Ceiling fans, Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Garbage disposal, Oven, Range, Refrigerator, ice maker, and water dispenser, Electrical system, Garage door opener, Air conditioning system, Heating system, Plumbing fixtures, Plumbing stoppages, Plumbing system, Water heater.
Add-on items
annual maintenance, attic exhaust fan, central vacuum, effluent pump, ejector pump, freestanding freezer, freestanding icemaker, freestanding spa equipment, generator, geothermal heating and cooling system, grinder pump, guest house, jetted hot tub, lawn sprinkler system, lift pump, limited roof-leak repair, pool and spa equipment, pool equipment, premium appliances, premium benefits, premium systems, premium systems plus, service line, septic system, sump pump, swamp cooler, water filtration system, water softener, well pump, wine cooler.
Plan Name
Customize Your Own
Service Fee
$70
Monthly Cost
Varies
Add-on items
annual maintenance, attic exhaust fan, central vacuum, effluent pump, ejector pump, freestanding freezer, freestanding icemaker, freestanding spa equipment, generator, geothermal heating and cooling system, grinder pump, guest house, jetted hot tub, lawn sprinkler system, lift pump, limited roof-leak repair, pool and spa equipment, pool equipment, premium appliances, premium benefits, premium systems, premium systems plus, service line, septic system, sump pump, swamp cooler, water filtration system, water softener, well pump, wine cooler.
Average monthly costs: $29.99 - $89.99
Founded in 1971, American Home Shield was one of the country's first home warranty companies. Today, it offers three coverage plans and six supplementary add-ons.
What we like
- Offers generous coverage caps
- Allows customers to build their own plans
- Provides the option to choose the service fee you want to pay
What we don't like
- Doesn’t let customers choose their own technician
- Offers limited add-on options
Plan Name
ShieldSilver
Service Fee
$125 - $100
Monthly Cost
$29 - $39
Items covered
Air conditioners, Built-in exhaust/vent/attic fans, Ceiling fans, Doorbells and chimes, Ductwork, Faucets and valves, Garage-door openers, Heating units, Interior electrical lines, Interior plumbing lines, Main breaker and fuse panel box, Toilets, Water heaters, Whirlpool tub motor and components.
Add-on items
Electronics Protection Plan (not available in CA. Provided by Allstate Protection Plans), Pool, Spa, Guest Unit, Septic Pump, Well Pump.
Plan Name
ShieldGold
Service Fee
$125 - $100
Monthly Cost
$49 - $59
Items covered
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, Ovens, Toilets, Water heaters, Whirlpool tub motor and components.
Add-on items
Electronics Protection Plan (not available in CA. Provided by Allstate Protection Plans), Pool, Spa, Guest Unit, Septic Pump, Well Pump.
Plan Name
ShieldPlatinum
Service Fee
$125 - $100
Monthly Cost
$79 - $89
Items covered
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.
Add-on items
Electronics Protection Plan (not available in CA. Provided by Allstate Protection Plans), Pool, Spa, Guest Unit, Septic Pump, Well Pump.
Average monthly costs: $47.00 - $87.00
First American is known for its comprehensive appliance coverage caps. With an Essential or Premium plan that has the First American Advantage upgrade, you could also get coverage for miscellaneous components, including appliance knobs and dials.
What we like
- Allows you to choose your service call fee
- Doesn’t have a coverage cap on heating, cooling, or ductwork
- Accepts 24/7 service calls
- Offers replacement of some covered items that are too damaged to repair
What we don't like
- Doesn’t let customers choose their own contractor
- Charges higher for coverage compared to other providers
Plan Name
Starter Plan
Service Fee
$125 - $75
Monthly Cost
$47 - $67
Items covered
Ductwork, Heating system, Refrigerant, Electrical systems, Plumbing systems, Plumbing stoppages, Toilet tank/bowl/mechanisms, Built-in microwave, Dishwasher, Kitchen range hood, Oven/range/cooktop, Refrigerator.
Add-on items
Additional refrigeration, Central air conditioning, HVAC tune-up, Limited roof-leak, Pool/spa equipment, Septic tank pumping/system, Water softener, Well pump.
Plan Name
Essential Plan
Service Fee
$125 - $75
Monthly Cost
$52 - $72
Items covered
Air conditioning, Ductwork, Heating system, Mini-split ductless systems, Refrigerant, Ceiling/attic/exhaust fans, Electrical systems, Garage door opener, Plumbing systems, Plumbing stoppages, Toilet tank/bowl/mechanisms, Water heaters, Built-in microwave, Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Dishwasher, Kitchen range hood, Oven/range/cooktop, Refrigerator, Trash compactor.
Add-on items
Additional refrigeration, Central air conditioning, HVAC tune-up, Limited roof-leak, Pool/spa equipment, Septic tank pumping/system, Water softener, Well pump.
Plan Name
Premium Plan
Service Fee
$125 - $75
Monthly Cost
$67 - $87
Items covered
Air conditioning, Central vacuum system, Ductwork, Heating system, Mini-split ductless systems, Refrigerant, Registers, grills and filters, Window AC unit, Ceiling/attic/exhaust fans, Electrical systems, Garage door opener, Garage door springs, hinges and transmitters, Faucets, Hose bibs, Install ground-level cleanout, Plumbing systems, Plumbing stoppages, Shower head/shower arm, Toilet tank/bowl/mechanisms, Water heaters, Built-in microwave, Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Dishwasher, Garbage disposal, Instant hot water dispenser, Kitchen range hood, Luxury appliance, Oven/range/cooktop, Refrigerator, Trash compactor.
Add-on items
Additional refrigeration, Central air conditioning, HVAC tune-up, Limited roof-leak, Pool/spa equipment, Septic tank pumping/system, Water softener, Well pump.
Average monthly costs: $38.99 - $66.99
Cinch Home Services provides coverage perks other companies don’t, such as a homeowners insurance deductible reimbursement. Like most home warranty companies, Cinch offers flexible service fees that raise or lower your plan premium.
What we like
- Offers home insurance deductible of $500
- Extends a long 180-day workmanship guarantee
- Provides generous $10,000 aggregate coverage limit
What we don't like
- Charges high service fees of $100-$150
- Doesn’t allow customers to choose their own technician
- Isn’t available in Hawaii or Alaska
Plan Name
Appliances Plan
Service Fee
$150 - $100
Monthly Cost
$38 - $48
Items covered
Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Freestanding ice maker, Microwave (built-in), Range, Range exhaust hood, Refrigerators, Trash compactor (built-in), Wall oven, Air conditioner or refrigerator filter credit, Food center (built-in).
Add-on items
Pool (Heater Included), Spa (Heater Included), Pool with Spa (Heater Included), Septic Tank/Pumping, Well Pump, Premier Upgrade Package.
Plan Name
Built-in Systems Plan
Service Fee
$150 - $100
Monthly Cost
$43 - $55
Items covered
Air conditioning, including ductwork, Central vacuum, Doorbell, Heating system, including ductwork, Attic fans, Ceiling fans, Electrical system, Garage door openers, Smoke detectors, Plumbing system, Sump pump, Toilets, Water heater, Whirlpool/jetted tub (built-in), Air conditioner or refrigerator filter credit, Garbage disposal, Instant hot/cold water dispenser.
Add-on items
Pool (Heater Included), Spa (Heater Included), Pool with Spa (Heater Included), Septic Tank/Pumping, Well Pump, Premier Upgrade Package.
Plan Name
Complete Home Plan
Service Fee
$150 - $100
Monthly Cost
$54 - $66
Items covered
Air conditioning, including ductwork, Central vacuum, Doorbell, Heating system, including ductwork, Attic fans, Ceiling fans, Electrical system, Garage door openers, Smoke detectors, Plumbing system, Sump pump, Toilets, Water heater, Whirlpool/jetted tub (built-in), Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Freestanding ice maker, Microwave (built-in), Range, Range exhaust hood, Refrigerators, Trash compactor (built-in), Wall oven, Air conditioner or refrigerator filter credit, Food center (built-in), Homeowners insurance deductible reimbursement, Garbage disposal, Instant hot/cold water dispenser.
Add-on items
Pool (Heater Included), Spa (Heater Included), Pool with Spa (Heater Included), Septic Tank/Pumping, Well Pump, Premier Upgrade Package.
Average monthly costs: $44.42 - $47.75
Roof leak repair coverage is a rare perk that Select offers to its customers. It's also a good company to keep on your shortlist if affordable premiums are your top priority.
What we like
- Provides low service fees compared to other home warranty providers
- Includes two extra months of coverage in annual signup
- Has an appliance-only, systems-only, and combo plan option
What we don't like
- Has a $75 cancellation fee
- Low coverage caps
Plan Name
Bronze Care Plan
Service Fee
$75
Monthly Cost
$44
Items covered
Built-in microwave, Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Garbage disposal, Refrigerator, Stove/oven.
Add-on items
Central vacuum, Lawn sprinkler system, Pool, Roof leak, Septic system, Spa, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Well pump.
Plan Name
Gold Care Plan
Service Fee
$75
Monthly Cost
$44
Items covered
AC/cooling, Ductwork, Heating system, Plumbing system, Water heater, Electrical system.
Add-on items
Central vacuum, Lawn sprinkler system, Pool, Roof leak, Septic system, Spa, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Well pump.
Plan Name
Platinum Care Plan
Service Fee
$75
Monthly Cost
$47
Items covered
AC/cooling, Ductwork, Heating system, Plumbing stoppages, Plumbing system, Water heater, Ceiling fan, Electrical system, Garage-door openers, Built-in microwave, Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Garbage disposal, Refrigerator, Stove/oven.
Add-on items
Central vacuum, Lawn sprinkler system, Pool, Roof leak, Septic system, Spa, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Well pump.
Cost of a home warranty in Decatur
The average cost of a home warranty in Decatur is on par with the national average, running from $40.91 to $77.05 per month. If you prefer to pay an annual premium, expect to pay between $563.62 and $927.43 per year. To calculate national averages, we requested hundreds of quotes using 2,000-square-foot, single-family homes across each state the providers service.
Home warranty coverage
Home warranties protect a variety of major systems and home appliances. We'll give you a general overview of the two main coverage categories.
What are the typical items covered under a home warranty?
- Clothes dryers
- Washing machines
- Built-in microwaves
- Dishwashers
- Cooktops
- Refrigerators
The first category of items a home warranty protects is kitchen appliances and household items. This includes the following: The second coverage category is major systems, which frequently consist of the following:
- Electrical
- Plumbing
- Water heater
- HVAC
- Central vacuum
What items are typically not covered under a home warranty?
Home warranties, similar to other service contracts, have coverage exclusions. One common exclusion is breakdowns caused by damage outside of normal wear and tear. For example, the warranty would probably not cover an air conditioner that stopped working because of a dirty air filter, since replacing the filter is a part of routine maintenance.
- Additionally, home warranties won't cover the following:
- Preexisting conditions
- Rust or corrosion damage
- Acts of nature
- Improper system or appliance installation
- Hazardous waste
- Cosmetic damage
Questions to ask home warranty providers in Decatur
Before you purchase a home warranty plan, discuss these crucial questions with each provider you're considering.
What items are covered by my policy?
First, figure out what items need coverage before requesting a home warranty quote. Some providers separate appliance and system coverage, so verify that the company has plans to meet your particular needs. Most home warranty companies also sell optional add-ons for things like roof leaks and additional refrigeration. Evaluate what add-ons you might need and how much they'll add to the home warranty cost.
How long is my home warranty good for?
Generally, a home warranty plan is valid for 12 months from the coverage effective date, which is 30 days after the initial sign-up date. Home warranty companies require a 30-day waiting period to deter customers from filing claims for preexisting conditions. Purchasing a multiyear plan extends protection beyond the standard 12-month term.
What contractors do you work with?
Ask potential home warranty companies about their network of local service contractors. A contractor must have the proper local and state licensing to access the company's network. If there are no in-network contractors near you, the warranty company may let you choose your own. You can verify a contractor's license by searching the Georgia Secretary of State database.
How does your claims approval process work?
Each company's claims process will differ from the others. If a covered issue strikes, you could file a claim online or over the phone. Most companies try to address claims within one to two days, though there might be processing delays if you filed outside normal working hours. Once the provider receives your claim, someone will review it and connect you with a partner service contractor. The contractor will schedule a visit, diagnose the problem, and then request final approval from the home warranty provider before starting repairs.
Can I transfer my policy to the next owner of my home?
Most home warranty companies allow you to transfer your policy to a new homeowner if you need to move. Sometimes, transfers are free, and other times, the company will charge a transfer fee for the service. Home warranty companies might also sell separate, special coverage plans that you can easily transfer to prospective homebuyers. Sellers can purchase these plans to raise their home's appeal in a competitive market.
Home warranty contract fine print
Before committing to a home warranty, we strongly recommend reading a sample contract. Learning more about the company's terms and conditions will help you determine the best fit. It'll also help you stand up for your rights if you need to file a claim. Look for these key terms and clauses in your research:
- Exclusions: Even if a device is covered under your home warranty, it might still have exclusions for certain components. A sample contract should specifically list these exclusions.
- Coverage limit: Each home warranty has a coverage limit that stipulates how much a company will cover per individual claim. Warranty contracts could also have annual coverage limits.
- Workmanship guarantee: Workmanship guarantees temporarily shield you from additional service call fees if an in-network technician doesn't adequately address a covered issue. Most guarantees are 30 days long, but some companies offer longer periods.
- Cancellation: Each home warranty company has a cancellation policy in its terms and conditions. Many companies will refund your annual premium in full if you cancel within the first 30 days of enrollment.
- Service call fee: The service call fee is how much you'll pay the home warranty company or service provider each time you file a claim. Fees typically range from $75–$125 per claim.
Facts about Decatur
Average High in July
Average Low in January
Average Daily Sunlight
- Extends 60-day workmanship guarantee
- Holds high customer ratings
- Offers customization with 38 add-ons
- Covers rust and corrosion damage
- Offers comprehensive coverage limits
- Provides flexible service fees
- Charges low premiums
- Includes roof-leak coverage
- Offers solid HVAC coverage
Our methodology for selecting home warranty providers
We review national home warranty providers against our full home warranty methodology. We score warranty providers based on coverage options and limits, price, brand reputation, customer service, extra features and availability.
Editorial note: The name “Homefront” refers to the alliance between USA TODAY and Home Solutions that publishes review, comparison, and informational articles designed to help USA TODAY readers make smarter purchasing and investment decisions about their home. Under the alliance, Homefront provides and publishes research and articles about home service and home improvement topics. Homefront has an affiliate disclosure policy. The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Homefront editorial staff alone (see About Homefront). Homefront adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information. Go back to top
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