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5 Best Home Warranty Companies in Maryland (2024)

Liberty Home Guard is our recommended home warranty provider for Maryland residents. Read our review to learn why and compare your options.

Author Image Written by Dana Getz + 1 other Reviewed by Jacquelyn Kfoury Updated 06/24/2024

Between Maryland’s humid summers and chilly winters, an unexpected HVAC system breakdown can quickly make your home uncomfortable. A home warranty plan safeguards against these potential headaches, helping to connect you to a repair technician quickly when your home systems or appliances malfunction. These plans also save you from paying thousands of dollars for a repair, instead requiring only a predetermined service call fee.

We researched and scored 13 top home warranty companies and chose Liberty Home Guard as our recommended provider for Maryland homeowners. The company offers three specialized coverage plans plus 42 unique add-on options. American Home Shield is another solid option due to its comprehensive coverage and generous caps. Keep reading our review to find the home warranty that best suits your needs and home.

Key Takeaways

  • Based on our extensive research of 13 home warranty providers, Liberty Home Guard and American Home Shield are the best home warranty companies in Maryland.
  • A Maryland home warranty costs an average of $664 annually, or $45–$67 per month, depending on the plan and coverage.
  • Our home warranty survey revealed that 93% of policyholders were satisfied with their home warranty plan, while less than 1% were dissatisfied.

Did You Know?

  • In the last 30 days, more than 2,500 people bought home warranties from the above providers. Liberty Home Guard is our most popular provider, with 55% of buyers choosing to cover their homes with an LHG plan.

What Are Top Home Warranty Companies in Maryland?

After evaluating 13 home warranty providers using our detailed scorecard, we narrowed down the following five companies for Maryland homeowners:


Compare Home Warranty Companies in Maryland

The table below compares top Maryland providers based on key factors, including pricing, response time, and service fees.

Liberty Home Guard
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American Home Shield
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Select Home Warranty
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Elite Home Warranty
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First American Home Warranty
Visit Site

Overall Score

4.6 / 5 4.8 / 5 4 / 5 4.5 / 5 4.5 / 5

BBB Rating

NR B B A+ B

Monthly Cost

$49–$59 $49–$109 $44–$47 $44–$59 $47–$87

Service Fees

$65–$125 $100–$125 $60–$75 $70 $75–$125

Customer Support Options

Email, Phone, Online Chat, Online Portal Phone, Online Portal Email, Phone, Online Portal Email, Phone, Online Portal Phone, Online Portal

Response Time

Up to 48 hours Up to 48 hours 48-84 hours Up to 48 hours 4–48 hours

Pros

  • Extensive add-on catalog
  • 60-day workmanship guarantee
  • Accessible customer support
  • High coverage caps
  • Preexisting coverage included
  • Bonus discounts on maintenance services
  • Low-cost plan options
  • High HVAC coverage
  • Free roof leak protection
  • Higher coverage for high-end appliances
  • 90-day workmanship guarantee
  • Service call fee rolled into annual premium
  • Unlimited system coverage
  • Solid add-on catalog
  • Optional upgrade for preexisting condition coverage

Cons

  • Reviews mention low claim payouts
  • Low coverage caps for electrical and plumbing
  • Higher costs for comprehensive coverage
  • Smallest add-on catalog
  • Low coverage caps for other items
  • No service call fee flexibility
  • Higher service fee for high-end appliance repairs
  • No workmanship guarantee on repairs by out-of-network technicians
  • No AC coverage in the lowest plan
  • Excludes essential appliances from its lowest plan

Summary

We recommend Liberty Home Guard for homeowners who need coverage for multiple HVAC systems and extensive add-on customizations.

We recommend American Home Shield for homeowners who need comprehensive coverage for older homes.

We recommend Select Home Warranty for homeowners who need affordable HVAC-only coverage.

We recommend Elite Home Warranty for homeowners who want fully customizable plans and extensive add-on coverage options.

We recommend First American Home Warranty for homeowners who need robust plan options for HVAC and high-end appliances. 

Promotions

$200 Off + 2 Months Free + Roof Leak Protection $150 Off Any Plan Use code HOUSE25 for $150 off + 2 months free $150 off + 30-day free trial $200 Off with Code FA200

Rating Categories

Liberty Home Guard American Home Shield Select Home Warranty Elite Home Warranty First American Home Warranty

Coverage

2.8 / 5
4.5 / 5
2.3 / 5
3.7 / 5
2.8 / 5

Value

3.5 / 5
2.3 / 5
4 / 5
2.5 / 5
3.8 / 5

Trustworthiness

4.3 / 5
3.1 / 5
3.3 / 5
4.7 / 5
4.3 / 5

Plan Transparency

2.5 / 5
5 / 5
2.5 / 5
3 / 5
2.5 / 5

Customer Support

4.7 / 5
4.3 / 5
3.7 / 5
3.3 / 5
2.7 / 5

Flexibility

3.5 / 5
2.5 / 5
2.5 / 5
3 / 5
3.5 / 5
Company BBB Rating Monthly Cost in MD Service Fee Visit Site
NR $49–$59 $65–$125 VISIT SITE
B $29–$89 $100–$125 VISIT SITE
A+ $44–$58 $70 VISIT SITE
B- $44–$47 $60–$75 VISIT SITE
B $47–$87 $75–$125 VISIT SITE
No results were found.

Note: We based the pricing information in this table and throughout the article on sample quotes we obtained for a 2,390-square-foot, single-family home in Annapolis, Maryland. Your pricing may vary depending on your home’s location, size, type, and plan selections.


How Much Does a Home Warranty Cost in Maryland?

Our research showed that a Maryland home warranty costs an average of $55 monthly, or $546–$804 annually. Due to the many home warranty companies available, plan costs can vary significantly. Based on the hundreds of quotes we’ve pulled across all 50 states, companies that offer more covered items tend to have higher prices. You should also consider additional cost factors, including add-ons, that will increase your premium costs. We recommend limiting add-ons to only the coverage you need the most. 

External factors, such as the local rates of service technicians and your home’s size, will affect the cost of your home warranty. Since rates vary between providers, you should obtain quotes from multiple providers and compare pricing.


Is a Home Warranty Worth It in Maryland?

Yes, a home warranty can be a worthwhile investment for Maryland homeowners. Maryland homeowners benefit from home warranties when faced with unexpected and expensive home repairs. You may not need to utilize the coverage immediately if you have brand-new appliances and systems, but having a home warranty in place before an emergency occurs can provide significant benefits in the long run. By proactively securing a Maryland home warranty, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you’re protected against potentially expensive repairs or replacements for your home’s essential systems and appliances.

You may be able to save a significant amount of money on repairs and replacements by having a home warranty, especially if your home appliances are older. This protection could be particularly useful in Maryland, where the average age of homes ranges between 41 and 50 years old, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). Dave Bringer, owner and head technician of Bringer Appliance Repair, says, “Older homes need home warranties because their appliances and systems have most likely used their manufacturer’s warranty coverage.” Look for a home warranty plan that includes preexisting and damaged items to optimize your coverage. 

To provide a clearer understanding of how unanticipated repairs can impact your finances and daily routine, we listed the most common appliance and system repairs in Maryland below:

Air Conditioning

According to survey data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), about 91% of Maryland residents have an air conditioning system installed. Considering it is one of the most important systems in a Maryland home, it would be detrimental for your HVAC system to malfunction. Minor AC repairs typically cost from $100–$650. However, if you need to replace the entire AC unit, it can cost anywhere from $2,500–$15,000.

Electrical Issues

Faulty electrical wiring can cause major problems for your home’s lighting, appliances, and essential systems. It poses serious hazards like fire and shock that could affect your loved ones. Hiring an electrician for minor electrical repairs costs an average of $150–$600. However, extensive wiring replacements or repairs can cost $9,000–$15,000.

Gas Furnaces

A gas furnace that isn’t working properly can be a health hazard for your family. It can release harmful gas, lowering the air quality in your home. Basic repairs can cost between $30 and $150, while gas furnace replacement costs may range from $5,000–$13,000.

Plumbing Leaks

Small plumbing leaks can result in significant damage and expenses. Leaking pipes can cause water wastage, increased bills, mold growth, and structural damage. Repairing a small leak could cost $150–$450, while new plumbing costs could add up to a $200–$5,000 bill. 

Roof Leaks

Even minor roof leaks can become a major issue over time. Leaks can lead to bacterial growth that destroys the roof’s integrity. Damage could spread to ceilings and walls, causing more significant damage. For a typical roof repair, you might spend anywhere from $150–$2,000, depending on the extent of the damage. If you need a partial or full roof replacement, your costs could skyrocket to $10,000 or more.


What Does a Maryland Home Warranty Cover?

Home warranties in Maryland cover repairing or replacing essential home appliances and systems when they break down due to normal wear and tear. Typically, these warranty plans cover the costs of repairing crucial components or replacing the covered item if necessary. 

However, the home warranty must be in place before the item breaks down. We recommend investing in home warranty coverage while your systems and appliances are in top condition. That way, coverage will be available when faced with an unexpected breakdown later on.

To help you find the right home warranty plan in Maryland, we have provided the below guide detailing the typical coverage, exclusions, and additional options available for home warranty plans.

Common Inclusion

The following appliances and systems are typically covered by home warranty companies: 

  • Air conditioning
  • Built-in microwaves
  • Clothes dryers
  • Clothes washers
  • Cooktops
  • Dishwashers
  • Ductwork
  • Electrical systems
  • Garbage disposals
  • Heating systems
  • Ovens
  • Plumbing systems 
  • Ranges
  • Refrigerators
  • Stoves
  • Water heaters

Common Exclusion

Although exclusions can vary between providers, we’ve found the conditions are often excluded from most home warranty plans: 

  • Cosmetic flaws and issues that don’t impact item performance
  • Preexisting conditions
  • Damage from improper installation or maintenance
  • Physical damage, including rust or corrosion
  • Damage due to natural disasters, accidents, or vandalism 

In addition, most home warranties have a 30-day or longer waiting period before coverage begins. Issues that occur during that waiting period will not be covered.

Common Add-ons

Many Maryland home warranty providers offer supplemental coverage with their plans. Many add-on options offer protection for secondary appliances, outdoor installations, and home maintenance services. Additional add-on options include coverage updates that extend coverage limits or protections. 

  • Electronics protection
  • HVAC maintenance
  • Pest control services 
  • Pools
  • Professional and high-end appliances
  • Roof leaks
  • Secondary appliances
  • Septic tank and pumping
  • Spas
  • Sump pumps
  • Well pumps

Our Home Warranty Research Process

Why Trust Us? Our review and rating process for the best home warranty companies
13
Companies Considered We carefully considered 13 companies to find the best home warranty providers available.
2000
Homeowners Surveyed We surveyed 2,000 home owners to see what they care about most for home protection.
5700
Reviews Analyzed We went through 5,700 customer reviews of home warranty companies to see what people had to say about each provider.
31
Coverages Compared We compared 31 policies to find the best home warranty offerings on the market.

We reviewed common homeowner pain points and repairs to select Maryland’s top home warranty companies. We spoke with home warranty experts to learn more about the industry and gain more insight into the shopping experience. We contacted company representatives to discuss their plan options and coverage. We reviewed sample quotes and read through the contract terms. We also conducted secret shopping to understand the homeowner experience and tested several claim processes to gain firsthand experience. 
We then scored each Maryland provider against our detailed review standards in four categories: coverage, value, trust and transparency, and availability and service. We checked for solid HVAC, plumbing, and roof leak protection through standard plans or supplemental coverage. We weighted the premium costs against the coverage provided to find affordable options. We researched each brand’s reputation and analyzed third-party customer reviews to determine trust and transparency. Finally, we reviewed the claims filing process, typical processing times, and customer support availability.

Our Home Warranty Experts

We consulted over 15 industry professionals during our research to provide authoritative insights on home warranties. Two experts were consulted for this article:

  • Dave Bringer: Bringer serves as the owner and head technician of Bringer Appliance Repair
  • David Tully: Tully is the founder and owner of LPT Realty based in Reno, Nevada.

Maryland Home Warranty Company Reviews

Below are detailed reviews of our top home warranty companies in Maryland. 

Liberty Home Guard

Best Overall
4.4 We grade all home warranty companies on the most important factors to homeowners such as coverage, value, trust, transparency, availability, and service. We account for 15 specific data points such as coverage caps, systems and appliances covered, monthly costs, service fees, sample contract availability, response time, claims process, and workmanship guarantee length to then calculate a score, created fully by our Editorial team.

We recommend Liberty Home Guard (LHG) for Maryland homeowners looking for specialized home warranty protections. The company offers 42 add-ons, the largest add-on catalog in this review. 

Monthly cost: $49–$59

Pros and Cons

Pros Extended a 60-day workmanship guarantee, double the industry standard Offers an extensive add-on catalog, including roof-leak coverage Provides two specialized plans and one comprehensive option Cons Assigns its service call fees, limiting pricing customization Excludes its service call fee from the online quote process Limits plumbing and electrical coverage to $500

Plans and Cost

Liberty Home Guard provides three service plans: Appliance Guard, Systems Guard, and Total Home Guard. We read through the Liberty Home Guard sample contract and learned that more items receive a $2,000 cap. It includes essential systems such as HVAC. However, its electrical and plumbing coverage falls short, offering only $500 limits. These caps are well below the $2,000 average industry standard. The company doesn’t include roof-leak coverage with any plans but does offer it as an add-on.  A 60-day workmanship guarantee backs repairs, double the industry standard.

Here’s an overview of the available LHG plans:

  • Appliance Guard: This appliance-only plan protects essential appliances, including clothes washers, dishwashers, and refrigerators.
  • Systems Guard: This system-only plan covers critical built-in systems, such as cooling, heating, and plumbing. 
  • Total Home Guard: The highest plan combines the Appliance Guard and Systems Guard plans to offer comprehensive coverage. 

Liberty Home Guard provides monthly and annual premium options. Our sample included two free coverage months when we selected the annual option. Unlike other companies that provide two or more service fee options, LHG assigns its fees instead. After speaking to an LHG representative, we learned that fees vary based on your location, selected plan, and add-on options.

Here’s a breakdown of LHG pricing and coverage caps:

Plan

Monthly Cost

Service Fee

Coverage Cap

Appliance Guard

$49.99

$65–$125

$2,000

Systems Guard

$54.99

$65–$125

$2,000 (Plumbing and electrical: $500)

Total Home Guard

$59.99

$65–$125

Coverage caps remain the same

Liberty Home Guard offers the most extensive add-on catalog, with 42 options. The company provides midrange pricing add-ons, ranging from $3.00–$35.99 per month. Its unique options include home maintenance services, secondary appliances, and outdoor installations. Adding roof-leak coverage will add $10 to your monthly charges. When we used the online tool, LHG recommended add-ons based on popular choices made by other Maryland residents. 

Here are some of the most popular add-ons for Maryland homeowners:

  • Septic system pumping
  • Stand-alone freezer
  • Sump pump
  • Well pump

Our Experience With Liberty Home Guard

After secret shopping, we discovered that LHG offers multiple options for its claims submissions. You can call the dedicated phone line, use the online portal, or the mobile app. It’s also one of the few companies with an online chat feature. We tested it out and got connected in under 30 seconds. However, our initial communication was with an automated bot. It took two requests to speak with a representative before we reached a live agent. 

American Home Shield

Best for Comprehensive Coverage
4.8 We grade all home warranty companies on the most important factors to homeowners such as coverage, value, trust, transparency, availability, and service. We account for 15 specific data points such as coverage caps, systems and appliances covered, monthly costs, service fees, sample contract availability, response time, claims process, and workmanship guarantee length to then calculate a score, created fully by our Editorial team.

We recommend American Home Shield (AHS) for Maryland homeowners who need protection for older homes and items. It’s one of the few providers that includes preexisting conditions and physical damage and offers generous coverage caps. 

Monthly cost: $29–$89

Pros and Cons

Pros Includes roof-leak protection with its highest plan Offers coverage limits as high as $5,000 for covered items Provides flexible service call fees Cons Lacks an appliance-only coverage plan option Offers only five add-on options Charges higher for its comprehensive plans than other reviewed providers

Plans and Pricing

American Home Shield offers three plan options: ShieldSilver, ShieldGold, and ShieldPlatinum. We reviewed the American Home Shield sample contract and discovered that Maryland homeowners can receive HVAC, electrical, and heating coverage with every plan.

The company offers two options for roof-leak coverage. First, you can add it to the ShieldSilver or ShieldGold plans as supplemental coverage. You can also receive it with the company’s most comprehensive plan, ShieldPlatinum. You receive $5,000 to unlimited for systems and $2,000 for appliances. ShieldPlatinum doubles appliance coverage to $4,000. 

We’ll detail American Home Shield’s coverage plans below:

  • ShieldSilver: This system-only plan includes key systems such as cooling, heating, cooling, and plumbing. 
  • ShieldGold: This comprehensive plan covers appliances and systems, including kitchen and laundry appliances. 
  • ShieldPlatinum: Its highest plan includes ShieldGold protections, plus additional benefits, including roof-leak repairs and free HVAC tune-ups. 

AHS differs from other providers in its pricing structure, as it only offers monthly premium options. The company charges slightly higher for its bundled plans compared to other providers. You can select a $100 or $125 service fee to customize your costs. We chose the higher service fee, and our monthly costs decreased. 

American Home Shield’s pricing and fees are detailed below:

Plan

Monthly Cost

Service Fee

Coverage Cap

ShieldSilver

$29.99–$39.99

$100–$125

$5,000

ShieldGold

$49.99–$59.99

$100–$125

Systems: $5,000

Appliances: $2,000

ShieldPlatinum

$79.99–$89.99

$100–$125

Systems: $5,000

Appliances: $4,000

American Home Shield (AHS) offers only six add-on options for its plans, the smallest selection among the companies reviewed. On average, other companies provide around 10 or more add-ons. For an additional $10 per month, you can add roof-leak coverage. Add-on options pricing ranges from $5–$24. 

Other add-on options include the following items:

  • Electronics protection plan
  • Septic pump
  • Well pump

Our Experience With American Home Shield

One of our team members tested the AHS claims process using his own plan. After filing an online claim for a leaky bathroom pipe, he received immediate text and email confirmation of his submission. Five minutes later, the service technician contacted him to set a next-day appointment. Repairs took less than two hours, and his only out-of-pocket cost was the service call fee. 

Select Home Warranty

Best Value
4 We grade all home warranty companies on the most important factors to homeowners such as coverage, value, trust, transparency, availability, and service. We account for 15 specific data points such as coverage caps, systems and appliances covered, monthly costs, service fees, sample contract availability, response time, claims process, and workmanship guarantee length to then calculate a score, created fully by our Editorial team.

We recommend Select Home Warranty Maryland residents that want cheap home warranty coverage with baseline coverage. The company offers premium rates under $50 per, plus free rook-leak protection with every plan. 

Monthly cost: $44–$47

Pros and Cons

Pros Offers coverage for less than $50 per month Includes free roof-leak coverage with every plan Protects HVAC systems with a $3,000 limit Cons Doesn’t include coverage for unknown preexisting conditions Doesn’t offer flexible service call fees Offers lower coverage caps than other reviewed providers

Plans and Cost

Select Home Warranty provides three plan options: Bronze Care, Gold Care, and Platinum Care. We read through the Select Home Warranty sample contract and learned that HVAC systems received the highest coverage, maxing out at $3,000. However, all other items receive only $500. These caps are well below the industry standard of many other reviewed companies. For low-cost coverage of HVAC systems, Select offers lower rates than other providers but less protection for other home items.

Here’s a breakdown of Select’s plans:

  • Bronze Care: This appliance-only plan includes garbage disposals, ovens, and refrigerators. 
  • Gold Care: This system-only plan covers major home systems, such as cooling, electrical, and plumbing. 
  • Platinum Care: The highest combines Bronze and Gold Care coverage and adds ceiling fans, plumbing stoppage, and garage door openers. 

Select provides customers with annual or monthly premium payment options for its plans. Our sample quote for an annual plan included two complimentary months of coverage and a $150 discount. Rather than offering a flexible service fee, the company assigns a fixed service call fee ranging from $60–$75. While secret shopping, we discovered that Select offers its lower service call fee as an exclusive phone deal.

Here are Select’s monthly prices and coverage limits:

Plan

Monthly Cost

Service Fee

Coverage Cap

Bronze Care

$44.42

$60–$75

$500

Gold Care

$44.42

$60–$75

$500 (HVAC: $3,000)

Platinum Care

$47.75

$60–$75

Coverage caps remain the same

Select offers nine low-cost add-ons, with pricing ranging from $3.33–$8.33. Although priced lower than other review providers, Select limits coverage to $400.  

Some examples of additional add-ons are listed below: 

  • Central vacuums
  • Septic pumps
  • Well pumps

Our Experience With Select Home Warranty

Through our conversations with Select’s customer support representatives, we learned Select prefers phone communication for plan-related issues and claims processing. Select uses its own in-network technicians for its repair calls. The company lets you choose your own service provider in areas with no in-network technicians. However, Select must approve them before starting the repairs. 

Elite Home Warranty

Best for Flexible Coverage
4.5 We grade all home warranty companies on the most important factors to homeowners such as coverage, value, trust, transparency, availability, and service. We account for 15 specific data points such as coverage caps, systems and appliances covered, monthly costs, service fees, sample contract availability, response time, claims process, and workmanship guarantee length to then calculate a score, created fully by our Editorial team.

We recommend Elite Home Warranty for Maryland homeowners who need more customizable plans. The company offers three coverage plans, a fully customizable plan, and 27 add-on options.

Monthly cost: $44–$58

Pros and Cons

Pros Includes a 90-day workmanship guarantee Offers 27 add-on options for better coverage customization Provides up to a $4,000 limit for HVAC systems Cons Charges a higher service call fee for high-end appliances and after-hour service calls Excludes out-of-network contractors from its workmanship guarantee Lacks an online quote tool

Plans and Cost

Elite Home Warranty provides three standard plans: Elite Appliances, Elite Systems, and Elite Complete. It also provides a Customize Your Own plan, allowing you to choose the exact coverage you need. After reading through the Elite Home Warranty sample contract, we learned that HVAC systems receive a $4,000 coverage limit. If your heating or cooling system is not part of an HVAC system, you will receive $3,000 per system. The company has an annual limit of $15,000 for all plans. This divides into $7,000 for appliances and $8,000 for systems. Elite also varies its coverage limits between covered items. We recommend reviewing the sample contract to verify each coverage limit. 

Here’s an overview of each Elite coverage plan:

  • Elite Appliances: This appliance-only plan includes eight appliances, such as cooktops, clothes washers, and refrigerators. 
  • Elite Systems: The system-only plan includes eight systems, such as cooling, heating, and electrical systems. 
  • Elite Complete: The highest plan combines the Elite Appliances and Elite Systems plans to cover 16 appliances and systems. 

Based on the quotes we gathered, Elite Home Warranty offers monthly premiums ranging from $44–$58. The company applies a standard service call fee of $70. Most home warranty providers offer two or more options for their plans. In addition, Elite charges a $150 service call fee for high-end appliance repairs and service calls that occur after hours or on the weekend.

Below is a summary of Elite’s pricing and coverage limits:

Plan

Monthly Cost

Service Fee

Coverage Cap

Elite Appliances

$44.49

$70

$500–$3,000

Elite Systems

$49.99

$70

$750–$4,000

Elite Complete

$58.99

$70

Coverage caps remain the same

*Coverage caps vary by item

Elite has the second-largest add-on catalog in this review and offers 27 options. The limits for each item vary, just like its standard coverage. You can add $1,000 for roof-leak coverage to any plan. However, Elite has a term limit for add-on coverage. You can receive up to $5,000 per term for add-on claims.

Here are some of Elite’s add-on options below: 

  • Annual maintenance
  • Drainage, sewer, and water service lines
  • Septic system

Our Experience with Elite Home Warranty

One of our team members submitted a claim for a high-end dishwasher with Elite Home Warranty. Within 30 minutes, he received a call from an Elite claims specialist, who scheduled a next-day appointment. Although the technician needed to order parts, he returned the following Monday and completed the repairs within an hour. 

Elite dispatches in-network technicians for repairs and backs its coverage with a 90-day workmanship guarantee. If you use your own technician, you will not receive any workmanship coverage.

First American Home Warranty

Best Appliance Coverage
4.5 We grade all home warranty companies on the most important factors to homeowners such as coverage, value, trust, transparency, availability, and service. We account for 15 specific data points such as coverage caps, systems and appliances covered, monthly costs, service fees, sample contract availability, response time, claims process, and workmanship guarantee length to then calculate a score, created fully by our Editorial team.

We recommend First American Home Warranty for Maryland homeowners with high-end appliances that need extended system coverage. Its highest plan offers up to $7,000 of appliance coverage plus unlimited system caps for HVAC and plumbing.

Monthly cost: $47–$87

Pros and Cons

Pros Includes up to a $7,000 appliance cap with its highest plan Offers a free plan upgrade for extended protection, including damaged items Provides unlimited coverage caps for built-in systems Cons Charges higher monthly premiums than other home warranty providers Excludes some essential appliances from its lowest plan Only offers air conditioning coverage as an add-on for its lowest plan

Plans and Cost

First American Home Warranty offers three plans: the Starter Plan, the Essential Plan, and the Premium Plan. After reading through the First American’s sample contract, we learned that most systems receive united coverage except water heaters, which max out at $1,000. Its highest plan, the Premium Plan, includes roof-leak protections. The Starter Plan and Essential Plan require a roof-leak add-on. The company excludes air conditioners, clothes washers, and dryers from the Starter Plan. You can add A/C coverage with an add-on but must move to a higher plan for laundry appliance coverage. You can also add the First American Upgrade to the Essential and Premium plans for added protection for preexisting conditions.

Here’s a breakdown of First American’s coverage options:

  • Starter Plan: This plan includes system and appliance coverage, including built-in microwaves, electrical, and plumbing. 
  • Essential Plan: The Essential Plan includes Starter Plan coverage plus additional items, such as air conditioning, clothes washers, and dryers. 
  • Premium Plan: This highest plan includes the Essential Plan items and adds luxury appliances, roof leaks, and window air conditioning units. 

First American provides annual and monthly premium options to give customers better pricing choices. However, we received no free monthly coverage or discounts for selecting an annual premium. It offers three service call fee options: $75, $100, or $125. Our premium pricing decreased when we chose the highest service fee for our sample quote.

We’ve detailed First American’s pricing and limits below:

Plan

Monthly Cost

Service Fee

Coverage Cap

Starter Plan

$52–$62

$75–$125

Systems: Unlimited

Appliances: $3,500

Essential Plan

$57–$72

$75–$125

Systems: Unlimited (Water heaters: $1,000)

Appliances: $3,500

Premium Plan

$72–$92

$75–$125

Systems: Remain the same Appliances: $7,000

First American provides 12 plan add-ons, about the same as other home warranty providers. You can add roof-leak protection for $8.33 per month to the Starter Plan and Essential Plan. The First American upgrade is a free add-on for the Essential Plan and Premium Plan at no charge. You’ll pay $8.33 monthly to add central air conditioning to the Starter Plan. 

Additional add-on options include the following items:

  • Septic tank pumping/system 
  • Up to three additional refrigerators
  • Well pump

Our Experience With First American Home Warranty

One of our team members used his First American’s plan to repair a broken garage door opener. After submitting an online claim on a Friday, he received a text containing the assigned technician’s information within 30 minutes. The technician contacted him 30 minutes later to schedule a repair appointment for Monday. The repairs were completed in under 30 minutes. He only paid the service call fee for the visit.


Which Home Warranty Companies Didn’t Make the List?

In our search for the top Maryland home warranty providers, we eliminated some reputable companies that didn’t meet certain coverage criteria or caps. While the providers listed below did not secure a spot on our list, they are still solid alternatives if their coverage options align with your home needs. 

AFC Home Warranty

AFC Home Warranty provides unlimited coverage caps for HVAC systems, plus a rare plan-length workmanship guarantee. Unfortunately, AFC Home Warranty has a depreciation policy that decreases coverage caps for items five years or older. Maryland residents with older homes wouldn’t benefit from these plans. Instead, we recommend AFC Home Warranty for homeowners with new homes and items.

Cinch Home Services

Cinch includes HVAC coverage within two of its plan offerings, though this coverage is capped at a maximum of $1,500. The company imposes a $10,000 aggregate coverage limit per term.  Cinch also doesn’t offer roof-leak coverage in its base plan or as an add-on, coverage that’s crucial for Maryland residents. If you need baseline HVAC coverage and no roof-leak protections, Cinch could be an affordable alternative. 

Read more: Analysis of Cinch Home Services


Homeowners Insurance vs. Home Warranty

Maryland homeowners can benefit from having both homeowners insurance and a home warranty, as these two types of coverage serve different purposes and provide complementary protection against various unexpected events.

Homeowners insurance is designed to safeguard your home and personal possessions against external factors such as natural disasters, fires, and burglaries. It covers the structural integrity of your home and the belongings inside. On the other hand, home warranties offer protection specifically for your home’s appliances and systems when they break down due to age or regular wear and tear. 

Maryland homeowners should combine homeowners insurance with a home warranty for the best protection of their homes. This combination ensures coverage against external threats to their property and possessions, as well as wear and tear on their appliances and systems over time.


Is a Home Warranty Required in Maryland?

No, a home warranty is not legally required for homeowners in Maryland. However, builders may offer a home warranty plan alongside new home purchases.

In the state of Maryland, builders are required to provide a minimum level of coverage as outlined by the Maryland Attorney General. This mandatory coverage includes the following items:

  • Coverage for defects in the electrical, plumbing, heating, cooling, and ventilating systems for two years (not exceeding the manufacturer’s warranty period)
  • Protection against any defects in materials or workmanship for one year
  • Protection against defects in any load-bearing structural elements for five years

Homeowners can also consider additional home warranty plans to extend coverage for their home’s systems and appliances, providing comprehensive protection.


How To Choose a Home Warranty in Maryland

When shopping for a home warranty in Maryland, remember these steps to find the right coverage.

Check Your Coverage Needs

We recommend accounting for the home appliances and systems you use most frequently. Then, consider the company that offers those items in a coverage plan that fits your budget. In our survey of 1,000 home warranty plan holders, we learned that 45% of respondents considered coverage the most important feature when choosing a plan. It’s essential to thoroughly assess covered items to ensure they meet your specific needs before choosing a home warranty plan.

Request Multiple Quotes

Request quotes from at least three companies and compare coverage plans, pricing, caps, and add-ons. Check for any promotional deals for new customers, including discounted rates and free months of service.

Read the Fine Print

Knowing what a home warranty company excludes from coverage can prevent a denied claim. Take your time reading through the company’s sample contract. Then, call the company and ask a representative to clarify any sections you don’t understand.

Understand The Claims Process

As you review sample contracts, you should take the time to understand how to use your policy. Tully says, “You need to understand how to file a claim to your provider and how quickly you can expect a response from them. Also, get to know the turnaround time they would take for the repairs and replacements.” We also recommend checking each company’s technician.

Research Service Providers

To ensure you choose a reputable home warranty, ask for the license numbers of the technicians your home warranty company uses to fulfill service requests. Montgomery County’s Office of Consumer Protection recommends you verify the license number you obtain from your home warranty provider with the technician before they begin the repair.


How Are Home Warranties Regulated in Maryland?

In Maryland, home warranty companies receive partial regulation via the Maryland’s Service Contracts and Consumer Products Guaranty Act of 1987. The Act establishes requirements service contract companies must follow, such as specifying the duration of the contracts they sell to consumers. However, Maryland doesn’t identify a clear governmental body that steps in and enforces the Act. The state recommends filing a complaint with Maryland’s Attorney General if you have an issue with your home warranty company.
There are organizations within the home warranty industry that enforce self-regulation. For instance, the Service Contract Industry Council (SCIC) creates regulatory laws that ensure consumer protections are at the forefront.


Home Warranty Cost Calculator

We created a calculator to break down the estimated annual cost of owning a home warranty. 

To calculate your projected annual cost, use the following steps:

  1. Enter your monthly premium
  2. Enter your service call fee
  3. Enter your estimated number of claims 

It’s best to request a quote directly from one of our recommended providers, as annual costs and service fees vary between them.

Use the table below to compare your calculated cost to repair and replacement costs for common appliances.

ApplianceAverage Repair CostAverage Replacement Cost
Dehumidifier$50–$200$1,300–$2,800
Microwave$50–$400$60–$2,000
Dishwasher$50–$500$400–$3,000
Exhaust Fans$16–$300$250–$950
Electric Range$100–$500$230–$3,000
Gas Range$100–$500$230–$3,000
Dryer$100–$400$450–$2,300
Oven$100–$430$400–$3,000
Washer$50–$450$400–$2,300
Freezer$90–$500$160–$2,900
Refrigerator$40–$350$200–$5,000

Life span and repair cost data sourced from InterNACHI and Home Depot


Other Resources for Residents in Maryland


FAQ About Home Warranties in Maryland

When should I buy a home warranty in Maryland?

We recommend buying a home warranty when you buy a house (some real estate agents will include one during the closing process), but you can sign up for a home warranty at any time during homeownership.

What factors should I consider when selecting a Maryland home warranty?

When selecting a Maryland home warranty provider, consider key factors, including covered items, monthly costs, add-on options, and exclusions. Your selected home warranty should provide ample coverage for key systems and appliances and help reduce unexpected repair or replacement costs. 

What is typically included in a Maryland home warranty?

A Maryland home warranty typically includes major appliances and systems, such as air conditioning, heating systems, kitchen appliances, plumbing systems, and water heaters. It offers coverage for normal wear and tear and provides repair or replacement services.

What’s the difference between a Maryland home warranty and homeowners insurance?

A Maryland home warranty covers major systems and appliances that break down due to normal wear and tear. Homeowners insurance protects your home in case of a fire, natural disaster, or theft.


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