Advertiser Disclosure
Our editorial team is committed to creating independent and objective content focused on helping our readers make informed decisions. To help support these efforts we receive compensation from companies that advertise with us.
The compensation we receive from these companies may impact how and where products appear on this site. This compensation does not influence the recommendations or advice our editorial team provides within our content. We do not include all companies, products or offers that may be available.
7 best home warranty companies in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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 Philadelphia. We base our ranking off average customer ratings weighted against the number of reviews. For more information, check out our full methodology.
Consider a home warranty to financially protect your home's essential items. These policies cover the replacement or repair of common household systems and appliances, such as air conditioners and refrigerators, for a monthly fee.
Many key home systems break down before hitting the 10 to 15-year mark. HVAC systems typically last just seven to 25 years. The normal lifespan for water heaters is only six to 12 years, and most major appliances today go kaput in under 20 years, according to the experts at the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors.
If your Philadelphia house contains any aging furnaces, dishwashers or other appliances, you'll likely face a surprise breakdown. These top home warranty providers offer robust coverage at reasonable prices.
Philadelphia's relentless rainfall can put stress on your home's roof and heating systems. We advise getting a home warranty to limit the cost of a sudden home heating breakdown or roof leak. The companies below provide solid appliance and major system coverage and 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 Philadelphia
Here's our list of the best home warranty companies in Philadelphia:
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 plans with a 60-day workmanship guarantee on completed repairs. Compared to other providers in this piece, it also provides the largest number of coverage add-ons – 38 in total.
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 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 Philadelphia
You'll usually pay $41-$70 per month for a home warranty in Philadelphia, on par with the national average. Opting for annual payments means spending 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
Home warranties protect a variety of major systems and home appliances. We'll present a general overview of the two main coverage categories.
What are the typical items covered under a home warranty?
- Dishwashers
- Cooktops
- Built-in microwaves
- Washing machines
- Clothes dryers
- Refrigerators
The first category of items a home warranty covers is kitchen items and outdoor appliances. This consists of the following: When you purchase a home warranty, you're also getting coverage for major home systems. While different plans have different coverage scopes for this category, the following systems can be included:
- Electrical
- Water heater
- Central vacuum
- Plumbing
- HVAC
What items are typically not covered under a home warranty?
Home warranties, like most 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 malfunctioning due to a dirty air filter, since replacing the filter is a part of routine maintenance. Additionally, home warranties won't cover cosmetic damage, improper system or appliance installation, rust or corrosion damage, hazardous waste, preexisting conditions and acts of nature.
Questions to ask home warranty providers in Philadelphia
Before purchasing a home warranty coverage plan, we recommend asking providers the following questions.
What items are covered by my policy?
Assess your coverage requirements before requesting a quote from a home warranty company. Once youknow what items require coverage, confirm that the provider includes them in its packages. Some companies separate appliance and systems coverage into different plans, so ensure you choose the accurate one. Many companies also sell optional add-ons, covering things like additional refrigeration and sump pumps. Consider whether any add-ons fit your situation.
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 include a 30-day waiting period to stop customers from filing claims for preexisting conditions. You can get coverage beyond 12 months with a multiyear plan.
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 your local or county government database.
How does your claims approval process work?
Knowing more about the home warranty company's claims process can improve your chances of getting an approval. Most companies accept claims through the web or via a 24/7 phone line. Once you file, the company will aim to reply within 24 to 48 hours. Filing outside normal business hours may lead to a slower process. After you file your claim, a staff member will examine your claim and connect you with a networked repair service. The contractor's team will schedule a meeting with you to examine the appliance and diagnose the problem. Once the company grants final approval, the contractor can proceed with 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 easily transferred to buyers.
Home warranty contract fine print
To finalize your research, we recommend reading the home warranty provider’s fine print and sample contract before purchasing a plan. Knowing the company’s terms and conditions can help you decide if it’s the right one for your needs. It'll also help you be a better advocate for yourself if you need to file a claim. Below are several terms you should search for while reviewing the contract:
- Service call fee: Whenever you file a claim, the warranty company or repair provider will assess a service call fee ranging from $75 to $125.
- Workmanship guarantee: Home warranties typically offer workmanship guarantees of at least 30 days. If an in-network technician recently serviced your appliance or system, and you keep experiencing issues with it, the company will not charge an additional service call fee for new repairs.
- Cancellation: Companies typically outline how they process cancellations in their fine print. Many providers will refund the entire plan premium if you cancel within the first 30 days of sign-up.
- Coverage limit: Each home warranty has a coverage limit that limits the total dollar amount that the company will pay per claim. There might also be an annual coverage limit or other stipulations.
- Exclusions: Pay extra attention to the exclusions a warranty company lists in its fine print. For example, most home warranty sample contracts specify component exclusions for each covered item.
Facts about Philadelphia
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
Our editors may use AI as an input tool to tailor information in local markets. All content goes through a rigorous research and review process led by our team of writers and editors.
More on this topic...
We ranked the best home warranties based on coverage options, cost, reputation and additional features. 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty scored the highest.
foundationMay 22
Become familiar with your manufacturer's warranty and builder's warranty to determine whether you need a home warranty for new construction.
home warrantyApr. 25
We surveyed 1,000 homeowners to calculate a national average home warranty cost of $94 per month or $1,033 per year.
home warrantyMay 20
A home warranty pays for fixing or swapping out your home’s systems and appliances when they fail. Learn more about how a home warranty works in our guide.
home warrantyApr. 22
This guide on how to buy a home warranty focuses on key factors such as coverage, price and provider reputation.
home warrantyApr. 30