13 Questions to Ask When Comparing Home Warranty Companies

June 7, 2023

man in suit pointing to a home with papers on desk

*Updated July 8th, 2025

Buying a house? A home warranty can give you peace of mind, but only if you ask the right questions. Whether you’re buying a home warranty for the first time or renewing your current warranty plan, knowing how to evaluate home warranty companies makes all the difference in ensuring your home systems and appliances stay covered.

Home Warranties – Are They Worth It?

Understanding home warranty worth starts with diving into coverage options—what’s included in a home warranty cover, what warranty cost looks like, and how claims are handled. Before signing on the dotted line, ask yourself: **What are the top questions to ask the provider, and what even counts as a covered item?

Questions to Ask a Home Warranty Provider

Before you commit to a home warranty provider, here are key questions to ask during the decision process:

  1. What does the warranty cover?
    – Make sure major appliances and systems like plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical systems are included.

  2. What’s the service fee?
    – This per-visit charge goes to the technician, so comparing warranty cost matters when you file a claim.

  3. What are the coverage limits?
    – Check if there’s a cap on repairs or replacements for each appliance or system.

  4. Is there a waiting or exclusion period?
    – Many home warranty companies impose a 30-day waiting period, or carve out issues due to normal wear and tear.

  5. How does the claims process work?
    – Ask about warranty claims, technician dispatching, and response times.

Buying a Home Warranty – Choosing the Best One

When buying a home warranty, it’s smart to compare home warranty plans from multiple home warranty companies. Here’s what to consider:

  • Home warranty coverage
    – Some providers bundle all major appliances and systems, while others charge extra for add-ons like a plumb system or air conditioning.

  • Service fees and premium vs. deductible
    – A cheaper monthly price can still cost you more if the service fee or repair cap is high.

  • Reputation of home warranty companies
    – Look at reviews; industry players like American Home Shield are common picks—but it pays to compare best home warranty companies for your needs.

Questions About Home Warranties You Shouldn’t Skip

To make sure your warranty plan delivers value:

  • Don’t be afraid to ask whether certain appliances are excluded, or if the home’s structure and manufacturers warranty affect coverage.

  • Ask about home eligibility criteria—some warranties won’t cover older homes or systems with pre-existing issues.

  • Ask home warranty companies offer coverage for systems like your heating and air conditioning, so nothing sneaks up on you later.

Home Warranty Cost – What Influences Pricing?

Factors that affect home warranty cost include:

  • Scope of warranty coverage—systems only, appliances only, or both.

  • Limits on repair or replacement.

  • The service fee you pay per repair or claim.

  • Add-ons like pool equipment or well pumps.

Balancing repair or replacement coverage against budget helps you find the best home warranty for your lifestyle.

Claims Process – What to Expect

Filing a claim with your warranty provider should be straightforward:

  1. Report the issue: call the company or file online.

  2. Pay your service fee.

  3. A technician gets dispatched.

  4. They’ll repair or replace the covered item, within coverage terms.

Make sure to read the terms and conditions carefully—understanding what’s covered, when there’s a 30-day waiting period, and what coverage limits apply means fewer surprises down the road.

Is a Home Warranty Worth It? Final Take

A home warranty plan isn’t a guarantee against every breakdown, but it can be a budget-friendly safety net. By asking the 10 questions above and comparing different home warranty companies, you can choose a warranty provider that fits your needs and budget—whether you’re focused on appliances, essential systems, or full-home protection.

5 Questions to Ask (Quick Reference)

  • What does this warranty cover?

  • How much is the service fee?

  • Are there coverage limits per item?

  • Is there a waiting period or exclusion?

  • How do I file a claim?

Additional Home Warranty Resources