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7 best home warranty companies in Oakton, Virginia
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 Oakton. We base our ranking off average customer ratings weighted against the number of reviews. For more information, check out our full methodology.
You might be considering a home warranty to safeguard essential home systems and appliances. For a monthly fee, these policies cover repair and replacement costs when items such as refrigerators and AC units break down from normal wear and tear.
Did you know that the typical life span of an HVAC system is seven to 25 years? Other major systems, such as water heaters, only last an average of six to 12 years. Most appliances last just 20 years or fewer, according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors.
If your Oakton home contains aging dishwashers, furnaces or the like, you'll likely encounter an unexpected breakdown. These leading home warranty firms offer robust coverage at a fair price.
A standard homeowners insurance policy doesn't cover normal appliance wear and tear. With supplementary coverage from one of these home warranty firms, you'll have additional peace of mind in case of a surprise malfunction.
- 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 Oakton
Here's our list of the best home warranty companies in Oakton:
Average monthly costs: $22.00 - $80.00
2-10 Home Buyers Warranty pairs its three coverage plans with flexible service call fees. It also offers coverage perks, including an appliance color-match program and an "Even If" service fee guarantee. With this guarantee, 2-10 will refund your service call fee if your covered item can’t be fixed or replaced.
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 38 different coverage add-ons – the most of any home warranty company we researched. Each covered repair also comes with a 60-day workmanship guarantee.
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 has a fully customizable coverage plan you can design based on your coverage needs. It also includes a lengthy 90-day workmanship guarantee.
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
An industry veteran, American Home Shield has been in business since 1971. It provides three coverage plans and six optional 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 provides generous appliance coverage maximums in every plan. If you add the First American Advantage upgrade, miscellaneous items like appliance knobs and dials could also get protection.
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 is known for offering unique perks such as homeowners insurance deductible reumbursement and adjustable service fees and premiums.
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
Select Home Warranty plans have low premiums, and each one includes coverage for roof leaks.
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 Oakton
You'll typically pay $41-$70 per month for a home warranty in Oakton, on par with the national average. Opting for annual payments means paying anywhere between $563.62-$927.48 for the year. To find the average home warranty plan cost, we requested hundreds of quotes using 2,000-square-foot, single-family homes across each state the providers service.
Home warranty coverage
With a home warranty, you'll have additional coverage for major systems and home appliances. However, it's not a substitute for homeowners insurance, and there are some exclusions to coverage. Below, we'll summarize what's generally covered and what's not.
What are the typical items covered under a home warranty?
- Dishwashers
- Built-in microwaves
- Refrigerators
- Clothes dryers
- Cooktops
- Washing machines
The first category of items a home warranty covers is major appliances. This consists of the following: Major systems form the second category of covered items. The specific definition of what a "major system" is will vary between different plans. However, most include the following:
- Plumbing
- Water heater
- Central vacuum
- HVAC
- Electrical
What items are typically not covered under a home warranty?
Like other service contracts, home warranties won't cover certain components or appliances. These are called exclusions. A common exclusion is breakdowns caused by damage outside normal wear and tear. For example, home warranties will probably not cover an air conditioner breakdown caused by a dirty air filter. This is because replacing the filter is a routine maintenance task.
- Additionally, home warranties won't cover the following:
- Preexisting conditions
- Acts of nature
- Rust or corrosion damage
- Hazardous waste
- Cosmetic damage
- Improper system or appliance installation
Questions to ask home warranty providers in Oakton
We recommend asking each home warranty provider you're considering the following questions about their plans, terms and policies.
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 lawn sprinkler systems and sump pumps. 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?
A typical home warranty plan is good for one year from the coverage effective date, which is 30 days after the initial sign-up date. The 30-day waiting period acts as a way to prevent 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 Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation database.
How does your claims approval process work?
Understanding how a company’s claims process works often makes the difference between an approved claim and a denied one. Home warranty providers typically accept claims via an online portal or a 24/7 claims hotline. Typical response times are within 24 to 48 hours of filing, though there may be processing delays if you file outside normal business hours. Once the provider receives your claim, someone will examine the details and connect you with a partner service contractor. The contractor will book an appointment with you, 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?
If you're selling your home, you may be able to transfer your policy to the new homeowner. Some companies manage the transfer for free, while others levy a transfer fee. Home warranty coverage can be reassuring to new homebuyers. Some companies offer sellers special coverage plans that are readily transferable to buyers.
Home warranty contract fine print
Before finalizing a home warranty, we strongly recommend reviewing a sample contract. Learning more about the company's terms and conditions will help you determine the best fit. It'll also help you advocate for yourself if you need to file a claim. Search for these key terms and clauses in your research:
- Exclusions: Be sure to familiarize yourself with component-specific exclusions in the home warranty company's sample contracts. Some parts of equipment may be excluded even if the appliance itself is usually covered under the policy.
- Cancellation: A home warranty contract should include information on cancellation and refunds. If you cancel within the first 30 days of signup, many companies will fully refund your annual premium.
- Workmanship guarantee: Home warranties generally have workmanship guarantees that are at least 30 days long. If an in-network technician recently serviced your appliance or system, and you continue to experience issues with it, the company won't charge an additional service call fee for new repairs.
- Service call fee: Whenever you file a claim, the warranty company or repair provider will levy a service call fee between $75 and $125.
- 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.
Facts about Oakton
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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