Get up to 10 free comprehensive home warranty quotes
Compare premiums from local and national insurance companies
Check coverages and pick the perfect plan for your home and budget
How to get a home warranty
Get Quotes and Compare Plans
Compare coverage options, monthly costs, service fees, and customer reviews to find a plan that fits your home’s needs and budget.
Review Coverage Details
Read each plan’s sample contract to understand what’s covered, what’s excluded, and any payout limits or waiting periods. Pay close attention to optional add-ons if you need them.
Choose Your Provider and Plan Tier
Select the company and plan that provides the right level of protection. Confirm whether you want to add optional coverages or adjust your service call fee amount.
Finalize and Sign the Policy
Complete your application online or through an agent, verify your start date, and review your payment terms. Once you sign the contract and pay your first premium, your home warranty coverage begins.
What do home warranty plans cover and how much do they cost?
To avoid overpaying for your home warranty and ensure full protection, your contract must include coverage for only the systems and appliances that are in your home. Finding a plan that exactly fits your property is vital to get maximum value for your warranty payments.
Category
|
Basic Plan
|
Systems-Only Plan
|
Appliances-Only Plan
|
Comprehensive / Premium Plan
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
 Heating / HVAC |
Sometimes included (heating only) | Full HVAC system, ductwork, thermostat | Not covered | Full HVAC coverage (heating, A/C, ductwork, thermostat) |
 Air Conditioning |
Often excluded | Central A/C, compressor, condenser, coils | Not covered | Included |
| Plumbing System | Full plumbing system, water heater, sump pump | Not covered | Included | Included |
 Electrical System |
Limited wiring or breakers | Full coverage (panels, switches, circuits) | Not covered | Included |
 Water Heater
|
Often included | Included | Not covered | Included |
 Refrigerator
|
Covered | Not covered | Included | Included |
 Oven / Range / Stove |
Included | Not covered | Included | Included |
 Dishwasher
|
Included | Not covered | Included | Included |
 Washer / Dryer
|
Optional | Not covered | Often included | Included |
 Built-in Microwave
|
Sometimes | Not covered | Included | Included |
 Garbage Disposal
|
Included | Not covered | Included | Included |
 Garage Door Opener
|
Sometimes | Not covered | Included | Included |
| Ceiling Fans / Exhaust Fans | Sometimes | Not covered | Sometimes | Included |
| Add-Ons (optional) | Rare | Optional(well pump, septic, etc.) | Optional | Often included or available (pool, roof, spa, etc.) |
| Coverage Type | Limited mix of systems/appliances | Systems only | Appliances only | Systems and appliances |
| Avg. Total Cost Range | $25–$45 / month | $35–$55 / month | $35–$55 / month | $55–$75 / month |
| Avg. Total Annual Cost | $300–$540 / year | $420–$660 / year | $420–$660 / year | $660–$900+ / year |
| National Average (Overall) | ≈ $42 / month | ≈ $47 / month | ≈ $48 / month | ≈ $63 / month |
What determines the cost of a home warranty
The total price of a home warranty depends on a range of factors, primarily the amount of coverage you choose. Homeowners seeking full protection and peace of mind may prefer a comprehensive plan that covers nearly all major systems and appliances. Those looking to keep costs down can opt for a basic package that protects only select items. Below are the main factors that shape the overall estimate and monthly premium of a home warranty.
1. Level of Coverage
Each company offers different plan tiers, ranging from appliance-only and system-only coverage to complete combination plans. Basic policies come with lower annual fees but limited protection. In contrast, comprehensive or “total home” warranties cost more but include a wider variety of covered components. Optional upgrades or add-ons can further increase your total premium but expand your protection.
2. Add-On Options
No home warranty automatically covers every system or appliance. Many homeowners choose to enhance their plan with add-on coverage for specific items such as central air units, spas, septic systems, or well pumps. The price of these add-ons depends on the equipment’s complexity and the extent of protection offered, but they can add valuable flexibility to your policy.
3. Property Location
Home warranty prices differ across regions because local conditions impact costs. Labor rates, climate, and even regional regulations can affect both service fees and premium amounts. It’s best to choose a provider that operates in your state or area to ensure access to qualified technicians and accurate pricing tailored to your location.
4. Home Size and Layout
The square footage of your property plays a major role in determining the warranty cost. Larger homes (especially those exceeding 5,000 square feet) tend to have higher premiums due to the number of systems and appliances they contain. The home’s design, number of floors, and additional spaces like garages, extensions, or guesthouses can also increase your total price, particularly if those areas require separate add-on coverage.
5. Service Fee Amount
The service fee (or trade call fee) is the amount you pay each time a technician is dispatched. Selecting a higher service fee generally reduces your monthly premium, while choosing a lower service fee increases it. Lower monthly costs might result in paying more out of pocket when you file a claim.
Are home warranties worth the money?
A home warranty covering systems and appliances, while a relatively minor expense, can be an incredibly economical and convenient solution for home maintenance emergencies. While it does save money on out-of-pocket expenses, the convenience is often the most underrated part of a home warranty. Your warranty provider will handle everything from assessing the damage to hiring remodelers, turning a week-long affair of researching local contractors, getting quotes, and scheduling appointments into one phone call.
Before committing to a home warranty, check which systems and appliances are covered by manufacturer warranties. This can make a difference when choosing between a basic and premium plan, saving you hundreds of dollars annually. Read the fine print on your contract, check for additional fees, make sure to include the appropriate add-ons for your property, and your home warranty will be a net positive for your budget and peace of mind.
This site is a free service that helps homeowners connect with home warranty companies in their area. We do not represent the interests of home warranty providers and do not take any responsibility for their actions or inactions.
