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5 Best Home Warranty Companies in Texas (2024)

Author Icon By Dana Getz + 1 other Reviewer Icon Reviewed By Mike Qiu Updated 03/12/2024

Based on our research of the top home warranty companies, we choose Liberty Home Guard (LHG) and American Home Shield (AHS) as the best Texas providers. With Liberty Home Guard, you can protect up to two AC units. American Home Shield provides comprehensive protection, including HVAC coverage, with every plan.

With the state’s freezing winters and stifling summers, Texas homeowners need reliable HVAC systems all year. With the proper coverage, Texas homeowners can have peace of mind knowing they’re protected against potential AC and heating unit failures. Keep reading for our full list of picks and to learn how to choose from the Lone Star State’s best home warranties.

Did You Know?

In the last 30 days, more than 2,500 people bought home warranties from the above providers.


What Are The Best Home Warranty Companies in Texas?

Liberty Home Guard: Best Customer Ratings
American Home Shield: Best for Comprehensive Coverage
AFC Home Warranty: Best for Customization
First American Home Warranty: Best Appliance Coverage

Our top picks for Texas home warranty companies are Liberty Home Guard and American Home Shield for their extensive HVAC coverage. We used a comprehensive scorecard to evaluate 57 home warranty companies to come up with these top five home warranty companies in Texas.

Compare Texas Home Warranty Companies

We evaluated 31 factors, including pricing, response time, and service fees, while comparing Texas home warranty providers. The table below presents our top choices based on some of these key factors.

Star Rating Monthly Cost Service Fee Response Time Link
Liberty Home Guard Liberty Home Guard
$49–$59 $65–$125 Up to 48 hours VISIT SITE
American Home Shield American Home Shield
$29–$89 $100–$125 Up to 48 hours VISIT SITE
Select Home Warranty Select Home Warranty
$44–$47 $60–$75 48-84 hours VISIT SITE
AFC Home Warranty AFC Home Warranty
$38–$64 $75–$125 24-48 hours VISIT SITE
First American Home Warranty First American Home Warranty
$42–$82 $75–$125 4-48 hours VISIT SITE
Liberty Home Guard
Logo Liberty Home Guard
Star Rating
Monthly Cost $49–$59
Service Fee $65–$125
Response Time Up to 48 hours
VISIT SITE
American Home Shield
Logo American Home Shield
Star Rating
Monthly Cost $29–$89
Service Fee $100–$125
Response Time Up to 48 hours
VISIT SITE
Select Home Warranty
Logo Select Home Warranty
Star Rating
Monthly Cost $44–$47
Service Fee $60–$75
Response Time 48-84 hours
VISIT SITE
AFC Home Warranty
Logo AFC Home Warranty
Star Rating
Monthly Cost $38–$64
Service Fee $75–$125
Response Time 24-48 hours
VISIT SITE
First American Home Warranty
Logo First American Home Warranty
Star Rating
Monthly Cost $42–$82
Service Fee $75–$125
Response Time 4-48 hours
VISIT SITE
Company BBB Rating Monthly Cost Service Fee Visit Site
A $49–$59 $65–$125 VISIT SITE
B $29–$89 $100–$125 VISIT SITE
B $44–$47 $60–$75 VISIT SITE
B $38–$64 $75–$125 VISIT SITE
B $42–$82 $75–$125 VISIT SITE
No results were found.

We based the pricing information in this table and throughout the article on sample quotes obtained for a 2,345-square-foot, single-family home in Dallas, Texas. Your pricing may vary depending on your home’s location, size, type, and plan selections.


Do I Need a Home Warranty in Texas?

Texas homeowners face harsh weather conditions throughout the year. From humid summers to frigid winters, homeowners need reliable HVAC systems year-round.

About 98.4% of Texas homeowners own an air conditioning system. In addition, more Texans rely on heat pumps to warm their homes than any other state, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

Repairing or replacing these systems without home warranty protection could cost thousands of dollars. You also risk leaving your family unprotected without proper heating or cooling. 

Based on our research*, here are the home systems and appliances Texas homeowners struggle with most often:

Air conditioning

Dishwashers

Gas ranges

Heat pumps

Refrigerators

Losing your air conditioning during a Texas summer can be brutal for you and your family. You’re left to deal with high temperatures and humidity, creating uncomfortable conditions. A malfunctioning AC unit could also impact air quality and energy efficiency, leading to higher energy bills. Minor air conditioning repair costs range between $100 and $650, while a full replacement could cost $2,500–$15,000. 
Dishwashers help busy families save time and money by reducing hand washing. However, a broken dishwasher could create more issues than just inconvenience. Depending on the issue, a malfunctioning dishwasher could begin leaking water, leading to costly damage in your kitchen. Repair costs vary from $50–$500 for simple problems but could escalate to $3,000 or more for a new dishwasher. 
A malfunctioning gas range disrupts daily cooking and meal preparation. Faulty gas ranges also risk leaking hazardous fumes that degrade indoor air quality and endanger health. Without home warranty coverage, gas range repairs may cost $100-$500. Replacing the range could cost $3,000 or more if purchased outright.
Texans depend on heat pumps to maintain comfortable home temperatures during freezing winters. Malfunctioning heat pumps fail to provide adequate heating, exposing residents to subzero indoor conditions. Faulty heat pumps also drive up energy bills due to inefficient operation. Simple repairs could range between $100 and $650. However, new heat pump costs are significantly higher, requiring a $1,500–$5,000 investment. 
Without a working refrigerator, food safety becomes a major concern. Food could become contaminated, leading to major health concerns. In addition, you could lose hundreds in perishable food and create unnecessary food waste. Without a home warranty, repairs could cost around $40–$350, while a new fridge could carry up to a $5,000 price tag.

*Cost data sourced from The Home Depot


How Much Does a Home Warranty Cost in Texas?

Based on the pricing information we obtained for this article, a Texas home warranty costs an average of $57 monthly or $679 annually. The typical service call fee ranges from $75–$125 per claim. Your home warranty’s final cost may vary by chosen provider, selected coverage, and your home’s size and location. If you want to save money on your home warranty, consider the following options: 

  • Consider separate versus combined coverage: Plans with combined coverage for home systems and appliances cost more. Think about your most frequently used home appliances and systems or those most likely to break down. If you only need HVAC coverage, look for a company with a system-only plan. If appliances are your priority, consider an appliance-focused plan. Choose a plan that meets your current needs rather than a comprehensive plan with unnecessary coverage. 
  • Look for discounts and promotions: Many home warranty companies offer discounts if you purchase an annual plan. Although it’s a higher up-front cost, you can save around one month of coverage on average. Some providers also offer seasonal discounts and promotions that help reduce your monthly or annual costs. 
  • Weigh cost versus value: A cheaper home warranty plan may be ideal, but our research shows that providers charging lower monthly premiums tend to pay less for repairs and replacements. Danny Margagliano, realtor at World Impact Real Estate, advises that a cheaper home warranty plan could work if you have newer appliances. A more expensive plan could be ideal if you need more comprehensive protections. Consider a company within your budget that covers the full replacement value of your home items.

What Does a Texas Home Warranty Cover?

Texas home warranties cover repairing or replacing major home systems and appliances that experience normal breakdowns. These plans typically cover fixing key components or replacing the item entirely if repair isn’t possible. 

When shopping for a Texas home warranty and home appliance insurance, it’s important to understand what’s typically included and excluded, plus any additional coverage options. Below, we’ve listed standard coverages, exclusions, and optional add-ons to consider as you evaluate Texas home warranty plans.

Common Inclusions

Common Exclusions

Common Add-ons

A home warranty typically covers the following essential home appliances and systems under its standard coverage:
  • 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

While specific exclusions differ across home warranty providers, certain items and situations are typically not covered. Standard exclusions often include the following:

  • Cosmetic issues that don’t affect an item’s functionality or performance 
  • Preexisting conditions 
  • Improper installation or maintenance
  • Physical damage from corrosion, rust, and sediment 

In addition, many home warranty providers have a 30-day or longer waiting period before your coverage officially begins. Any issues and breakdowns occurring during this waiting period won’t qualify for coverage.

Many home warranty providers also provide add-on coverage for additional appliances, services, or items outside of your home. These add-on options may include the following items:

  • Carpet cleaning 
  • Central vacuum
  • Electronics protection
  • Exterior sewer and water lines
  • HVAC maintenance
  • Pest control services
  • Pool and spa equipment
  • Professional and high-end appliances
  • Roof leaks
  • Secondary appliances
  • Septic pumping 
  • Septic tanks
  • Stand-alone freezers
  • Water softeners
  • Well pumps

Our Home Warranty Research Process

Why Trust Us? Our review and rating process for the best home warranty companies
57
Companies Considered We carefully considered 57 companies to find the best home warranty providers available.
2000
Home Owners Surveyed We surveyed 2,000 home owners to see what they care about most when in comes to home protection.
57000
Reviews Analyzed We went through 57,000 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.

To ensure we selected the best home warranty providers in Texas, we identified systems and appliances that impact Texas homeowners’ daily lives. We consulted home warranty experts to learn about the industry and common homeowner headaches. We spoke with company representatives, requested quotes, and analyzed sample contracts from each company to find the best options. 

We then scored each provider using our detailed methodology, which includes four comparison categories: coverage, value, trust and transparency, and availability and service. We ensured each company offered adequate coverage for HVAC systems and basic home appliances through base plans or add-on options. We compared premium costs to the coverage value, including comprehensive and low-cost options. We researched each company’s brand reputation and read third-party customer reviews. Finally, we reviewed claims processing times, customer support availability, and each provider’s claims process.

Our Home Warranty Experts

We spoke with over 15 experts to understand the home warranty industry and what matters to customers. The following two home warranty experts provided insights for this article:
Danny Margagliano: Margagliano works as a realtor at World Impact Real Estate.
Timothy Meenan, JD: Meenan serves as executive director and general counsel for the Service Contract Industry Council (SCIC).

Reviews of the 5 Best Texas Home Warranty Companies

We’ve provided detailed reviews of the top Texas home warranty companies below.

Liberty Home Guard

Best Customer Ratings
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 Liberty Home Guard for its reliable customer support and multiple air conditioning unit coverage. The company offers three plan options and 42 add-ons, the largest catalog in this review. 

Monthly cost: $49–$59

How We Scored Liberty Home Guard

We scored Liberty Home Guard 4.5 out of 5 stars in our review standards. Here’s how LHG rated in key categories:

  • Coverage (4.7 out of 5): The company scored high for its specialized coverage plans and 38 add-on options. 
  • Value (4.25 out of 5): LHG lost points for not offering customized service fees and providing limited service technician options. 
  • Trustworthiness and Transparency (4.8 out of 5): LHG received a near-perfect score for its excellent customer review scores. 
  • Availability and Service (4.3 out of 5): We deducted points for its claims turnaround, which can take up to 48 hours to process.

Pros and Cons

Pros Includes separate appliance and system plan options for better-customized coverage Offers over 40 add-on options, more than any other reviewed provider Provides coverage for two air conditioning units Cons Can take up to 48 hours to respond to a claim Limits electrical and plumbing caps to $500 Varies service call fee based on location, plan, and add-ons

Plans and Cost

Liberty Home Guard offers three service plan options: Appliance Guard, Systems Guard, and Total Home Guard. When reviewing the Liberty Home Guard sample contract, we discovered it covers two air conditioning units, compared to other providers only covering one unit per service contract. LHG also provides discounts to select appliance purchases. We learned that LHG’s service call fees weren’t consistent or flexible. We spoke to an LHG representative who explained that service call fees vary based on several factors, such as your plan, location, and add-on options. Unlike other home warranty providers, these restrictions limit your ability to customize your premium cost. 

  • Appliance Guard: This appliance-only plan covers major appliances, such as clothes washers, garbage disposals, and ovens. 
  • Systems Guard: The system-only plan covers air conditioning, ductwork, electrical, water heaters, and other essential built-in systems. 
  • Total Home Guard: The most comprehensive plan combines the Appliance Guard and Systems Guard plans. 

The company offers monthly and annual premium options. We received two free months of service with our annual plan sample quote. LHG offers midrange pricing for its monthly plans. Its comprehensive coverage plan costs less than other providers but offers lower coverage caps.

We’ve outlined LHG monthly costs below:

Plan

Monthly Cost

Service Fee

Coverage Cap

Appliance Guard

$49.99

$65–$125

$2,000

Systems Guard

$54.99

$65–$125

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

Total Home Guard

$59.99

$65–$125

Coverage caps remain the same

Liberty Home Guard offers the most add-ons of our reviewed providers, with 42 available options. The company offers unique coverage options, including professional appliances and second refrigerator protection. Cost varies by item, ranging from $3.99–$35.99 monthly.  When we pulled a sample contract online, the company listed the following options as the most popular options for Texas homeowners:

  • Lawn sprinkler system 
  • Limited roof leak 
  • Pool and spa 
  • Septic system pumping

Our Experience With Liberty Home Guard

LHG provides multiple convenient ways for customers to contact their support team. During our experience, we could reach a live representative in under a minute when we called LHG. Unlike many other providers, the company offers a live chat feature on its website. When we initially connected with the chat, a chatbot greeted us. We had to make two requests to speak with a live agent before we were connected. The live representative was very responsive and provided thorough answers to our questions.

American Home Shield

Best for Comprehensive Coverage
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 American Home Shield for Texas homeowners thanks to its comprehensive heating and cooling system coverage on every plan level. We also tested the AHS claims process and received repairs within 24 hours of submitting a claim. 

Monthly cost: $19–$89

How We Scored American Home Shield

We scored American Home Shield 4.4 out of 5 stars in our review standards. Here’s how we rated it in key categories.

  • Coverage (4.7 out of 5): American Home Shield scored high for its three comprehensive plan options, which include heating and cooling protections. 
  • Value (4 out of 5): AHS lost points for its bundled plan pricing and service fee amounts, which are higher than those of other providers we reviewed.  
  • Trustworthiness and Transparency (4.25 out of 5): We deducted points for its lower customer review scores on third-party sites.
  • Availability and Service (4.7 out of 5): AHS received high scores for availability, providing a 24/7 claims line and 24-hour response time.

Pros and Cons

Pros Covers items impacted by physical damage and improper modifications Includes heating, cooling, and ductwork protection in every plan Offers customers a discount for annual HVAC tune-up and air filters Cons Charges slightly more for bundled coverage compared to other reviewed companies Doesn’t offer annual premiums or free service months, unlike other providers Offers the smallest add-on selection in this review

Plans and Cost

American Home Shield provides three plans: ShieldSilver, ShieldGold, and ShieldPlatinum. After reviewing the American Home Shield sample contract, we found that coverage for air conditioning and heating systems is included with all plan levels. Even when choosing the lowest plan, ShieldSilver, you’ll receive solid system protection. To protect your home appliances, opt for the ShieldGold or ShieldPlatinum plans. We also discovered American Home Shield’s rust, sediment, or corrosion damage protection, a rarity for home warranty companies. 

Here’s an overview of American Home Shield’s coverage plans:

  • ShieldSilver: The system-only plan includes major systems, such as air conditioning, electrical, and ductwork.
  • ShieldGold: This plan covers systems and appliances, such as ranges, refrigerators, and water heaters.  
  • ShieldPlatinum: The highest tier includes ShieldGold coverage and added protection, such as roof-leak repairs and HVAC tune-ups. 

American Home Shield offers a $100 or $125 service fee, making it easier to customize your price. Our sample quote showed higher premium costs with the lower service call fee. Compared to other providers, American Home Shield charges more for its bundled packages. The company only offers monthly plans, whereas other providers offer annual or monthly options.  

Our table below details AHS monthly costs and service fee options:

Plan

Monthly Cost

Service Fee

Coverage Cap

ShieldSilver

$19.99–$29.99

$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 only offers six add-on coverage options, less than other reviewed providers. Home warranty companies offer around 10 add-ons on average, but availability varies between providers. Add-ons can cost as low as $4.99 per month for septic pump protection to $21.99 for guest unit coverage. 

Additional add-on protection includes the following options:

  • Electronics protection plan
  • Pool & built-in spa equipment
  • Roof-leak repair
  • Well pump

Our Experience With American Home Shield

Our team member, a current American Home Shield customer, had a leaking pipe in the bathroom. He initiated a claim online and received both email and text confirmations right away. The claims process impressed us with the quick turnaround time to issue a technician. The service technician contacted him and scheduled an appointment for the very next day. The technician was able to fix the leaky pipe and only charged the service fee.

Select Home Warranty

Best Value
4.3 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 for Texas homeowners looking for HVAC protection at an affordable rate. Although its coverage caps are lower than other providers, these plans will offer financial assistance when unexpected breakdowns occur. 

Monthly cost: $44–$47

How We Scored Select Home Warranty

We scored Select Home Warranty 4.3 out of 5 stars in our review standards. Here’s how we rated it in key categories.

  • Coverage (3.7 out of 5): We deducted points for its lower coverage caps, which fall below the industry standard. 
  • Value (5.5 out of 5): We awarded Select a perfect score for its premiums priced under $50 and cost-friendly service call fees. 
  • Trustworthiness and Transparency (4.5 out of 5): We deducted a few points for its baseline 30-day workmanship guarantee and slightly lower review scores. 
  • Availability and Service (4.3 out of 5): The company lost points for its claims process, which can take up to 48 hours.

Pros and Cons

Pros Includes system-only and combined coverage options Offers a $3,000 cap for HVAC systems, one of the highest limits in this review Provides free roof-leak coverage with every plan Cons Doesn’t let you choose your service fee, limiting cost customization Excludes coverage for unknown preexisting conditions Includes $500 coverage caps or lower, which is lower than most providers

Plans and Cost

Select Home Warranty offers three plan options: Bronze Care, Gold Care, and Platinum Care. The Select Home Warranty sample contract details the limited coverage caps for most items. You only receive $500 for covered items, which is considerably lower than other providers. Select does provide $3,000 for HVAC coverage, and you can get system-only coverage with the Gold Care plan. This option is good for Texas homeowners needing low-cost heating and cooling system coverage. We don’t recommend it if you need higher limits for other systems or appliances. 

Here are more details about Select Home Warranty plans:

  • Bronze Care: This appliance-only plan includes essential appliances, such as cooktops, garbage disposals, refrigerators, and stoves. 
  • Gold Care: Its system-only plan covers major home systems, such as cooling, heating, and plumbing. 
  • Platinum Care: This plan combines the Bronze and Gold Care plan coverage and adds covered items, such as luxury appliances. 

Select Home Warranty provides monthly and annual options with added perks. With annual premiums, you receive $150 off and two free months of service. Although you benefit from lower service fees, you cannot choose your preferred rate. The company charges a $60–$75 service call fee per claim, which is lower than other providers. However, it assigns your service call fee, limiting your pricing customization. 

Here’s an overview of Select’s plan pricing below:

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 add-on options with its plans. This is typical for most home warranty companies. There are no options for second appliances or HVAC systems. However, these add-ons are very affordable, with the highest rate at $8.33 for pool coverage. With every plan option, you can add roof-leak coverage free of charge—most companies charge extra for this protection. 

Below is a sample of the available add-ons: 

  • Central vacuum
  • Lawn sprinkler system
  • Stand-alone freezer 
  • Well pump

Our Experience With Select Home Warranty

While secret shopping, we learned that speaking to customer support for a quote could yield better deals. For example, we discovered Select offers its lowest service call fee through an exclusive over-the-phone deal. We recommend working with a Select representative via phone to secure a lower fee. 

AFC Home Warranty

Best for Customization
4.6 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 America’s First Choice Home Warranty  (AFC Home Warranty) for its extensive customization options, which include four plans, three service fees, and several add-ons. The company has an unlimited air conditioning and heating system coverage cap, offering year-round protection for your Texas home.

Monthly cost: $34–$92

How We Scored AFC Home Warranty

We scored AFC Home Warranty 4.6 out of 5 stars in our review standards. Here’s how we rated it in key categories.

  • Coverage (4.3 out of 5): AFC Home Warranty for its depreciation policy for items five years or older. 
  • Value (4.5 out of 5): The company scored high for its service plan and service fee flexibility. 
  • Trustworthiness and transparency (4.8 out of 5): AFC Home Warranty earned points for its solid third-party review scores, 24/7 customer service line, and online claims process. 
  • Availability and service (5 out of 5): We rated the company a perfect score for its 24-hour claims process and flexible service technician policy.

Pros and Cons

Pros Includes HVAC protection in three of its four plans Lets customers choose their own licensed contractor Offers unlimited coverage for heating and cooling systems Cons Doesn’t include coverage for unknown preexisting conditions Includes a depreciation value clause that can reduce reimbursements Requires immediate reporting for any item issues

Plans and Cost

AFC Home Warranty offers four plan options: the Silver Plan, the Gold Plan, the Platinum Plan, and the Diamond Plan. We read the AFC Home Warranty sample contract to verify its HVAC coverage. You receive an unlimited coverage cap for HVAC systems with a $80 cap for thermostats. Although plans include up to $3,000 coverage caps per item, an item’s age could affect your final payout. We learned that AFC Home Warranty depreciates an item’s value if it’s five years or older. Appliance coverage comes with every plan, but HVAC protections are only available in three. 

We’ve detailed AFC Home Warranty’s plan below: 

  • Silver Plan: This appliance-only plan protects nine appliances, such as cooktops, dishwashers, and refrigerators. 
  • Gold Plan: The next plan provides comprehensive system and appliance protection for 15 items, such as air conditioning, heating, and plumbing. 
  • Platinum Plan: This plan extends coverage to 20 systems and appliances, such as built-in microwaves and ice makers. 
  • Diamond Plan: The highest plan includes Platinum coverage plus coverage for electronics and external sewer and water lines. 

AFC Home Warranty lets you choose a $75, $100, or $125 service call fee. When we chose the higher service call fee for our sample quote, our monthly premium increased. The company offers special discounts for its annual premiums. With a one-year plan, you’ll receive a $100 discount. Three-year plans come with $250 off.

Below is an overview of AFC Home Warranty’s available plans:

Plan

Monthly Cost

Service Fee

Coverage Cap

Silver Plan

$34.33–$39.08

$75–$125

$3,000

Systems Plan

$41.42–$46.17

$75–$125

Appliances: $3,000

Systems: Unlimited

Gold Plan

$48.50–$53.17

$75–$125

Coverage caps remain the same

Platinum Plan

$53.17–$57.92

$75–$125

Coverage caps remain the same

AFC Home Warranty offers 13 add-on options but doesn’t include secondary appliances or air conditioning. Add-on pricing aligns with other providers, with the lowest option at $25 per year. Its highest add-on option costs $150 annually for in-ground pool and spa protection. 

Additional coverage options include the following items: 

  • Double oven
  • Hot water dispenser
  • Roof leak
  • Sump pump

Our Experience With AFC Home Warranty

When generating a sample quote, we learned about added perks for holding an AFC membership. Membership benefits include discounts on HVAC filters, free credit monitoring, and various discounts for home, pet, auto, and dental insurance.  We also discovered that AFC Home Warranty allows you to choose your own contractor—a rare benefit. Most providers have their own preapproved network of contractors.

First American Home Warranty

Best Appliance Coverage
4.6 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 to Texas homeowners seeking high-end appliance protection. The company has high appliance caps but excludes air conditioning coverage in its base plan.

Monthly cost: $47–$87

How We Scored First American Home Warranty

We scored First American Home Warranty 4.6 out of 5 stars in our review standards. Here’s how we rated it in key categories.

  • Coverage (4.7 out of 5): First American scored high for its three combination coverage plans and generous coverage caps. 
  • Value (4 out of 5): First American lost points for its service call fees, which are slightly higher than other providers.
  • Trustworthiness and Transparency (4.8 out of 5): First American scored well for its industry experience, available sample contract, and excellent customer review ratings. 
  • Availability and Service (4.3 out of 5): We deducted points for its average response time and limited technician options.

Pros and Cons

Pros Doesn’t exclude older systems and appliances No coverage cap for HVAC and ductwork Reimburses a minimum of $3,500 per appliance Cons Charges slightly higher monthly premiums compared to other providers Doesn’t allow you to choose your technician Offers air conditioning as an add-on for its Basic Plan

Plans and Cost

First American Home Warranty offers three plans: the Starter Plan, the Essential Plan, and the Premium Plan. When reading through First American’s sample contract, we noticed that its Basic Plan doesn’t include air conditioning as a covered system. To receive coverage, you must choose an add-on option or one of its higher plans. Alternatively, heating systems are included with every plan. Its Starter and Essential Plans include a $3,500 appliance coverage cap, while the Platinum Plan offers reimbursements up to $7,000. You can add the First American Advantage upgrade, which covers improper installations, modifications, and maintenance.

Here’s an overview of First American’s coverage plans:

  • Starter Plan: This plan offers mostly appliance-only coverage and some system protection, such as heating and electrical. 
  • Essential Plan: This plan includes the Starter Plan coverage and adds major appliances, such as air conditioning and water heaters. 
  • Premium Plan: Its highest plan includes the Essential Plan coverage, plus additional protections for luxury appliances and window air conditioning units. 

First American offers annual and monthly premium options. Unfortunately, it doesn’t include discounts or free months of service with annual plans. First American does cost slightly more than other providers. However, you can customize your premium with a $75, $100, or $125 service call fee.

First American plan pricing is detailed below:

Plan

Monthly Cost

Service Fee

Coverage Cap

Starter Plan

$47–$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–$87

$75–$125

Systems: Remain the same Appliances: $7,000

First American offers 12 add-on options, such as additional refrigerators and HVAC tune-ups. You’ll pay $8.33 for central air conditioning add-on coverage with the Starter Plan. Other add-on options include the following items:

  • Limited roof-leak protection
  • Pool/spa equipment
  • Septic tank pumping/system 
  • Water softener

Our Experience With First American Home Warranty

Our team member tested the claims process for his garage door opener repair. Within just 30 minutes of submitting his online claim on a Friday, he was promptly provided with his technician’s information via text. The technician reached out and scheduled a service appointment for the following Monday. His repairs took less than 30 minutes to complete and he only paid a service call fee. 


Which Home Warranty Companies Didn’t Make the List?

While these companies did not make it to our list of top home warranty providers in Texas, they are still worth considering if their coverage aligns with your needs.

American Residential Warranty (ARW Home)

ARW Home provides three coverage plans, two of which include HVAC coverage. The company collaborates with several well-known underwriters, such as Home Depot and Asurion, to offer coverage. However, the coverage limits may differ by location, resulting in inconsistent coverage. If you’re a homeowner in Texas looking for cost-effective HVAC coverage supported by a national brand, ARW Home could be an excellent choice.

Cinch Home Services

Although Cinch Home Services provides rust and corrosion damage protection, its $1,500 HVAC coverage falls below that of other reviewed providers. Moreover, the company has an annual cap of $10,000 per contract term, which limits the total claims you can make in a year. However, the company offers three specialized plans: appliance, systems, or combined coverage, and charges less than $60 for its plans. Cinch might be suitable for your Texas home if you need low-cost, specialty coverage covering physical damage.


How To Choose a Home Warranty in Texas

When buying a home warranty in Texas, we recommend the following steps to help find the best coverage for your home. 

  1. Determine your primary needs: When shopping for a home warranty plan, you should determine which systems and appliances need coverage. Assess your items and prioritize which items need sufficient coverage. In Texas, your home warranty should prioritize and cover the built-in systems you use frequently, such as your air conditioner or heat pump. Consider supplementary coverage, such as roof leak or septic system protections, that may require add-on options. 
  2. Research each company: We recommend checking online reviews for each potential company. You’ll gain insight into its customer support, claims process, and overall reputation. Check the Better Business Bureau for company ratings and alerts for deceptive practices or other concerning behaviors.  
  3. Gather multiple sample quotes: Once you’ve chosen your top companies, we recommend getting sample quotes from at least three providers. Speak with a company representative or check its website for an online quote tool. Some companies offer special promotions and discounts that help reduce costs for the first year. Compare each quote for premium costs, service call fees, and covered items. 
  4. Review sample contacts: Most home warranty providers offer sample contracts that clearly outline their coverage plans, exclusions, and policies. Meenan advises against signing up with any home warranty company that doesn’t provide a sample of terms and conditions. Take the time to read through each construct and understand your exact coverage options. 
  5. Know your coverage limits: Most home warranty providers limit coverage amounts for HVAC, kitchen appliances, and additional features. You’ll need ample coverage to run your HVAC system in Texas year-round. Choosing a company that gives full replacement costs for your vital systems is wise.
  6. Understand the claims process: Before finalizing your home warranty, understand how a company manages claims. Some only allow you to access technicians from their network, while others might postpone requests made after business hours. Ensure the chosen home warranty provider has a transparent claims procedure.

How Are Home Warranties Regulated in Texas?

The Texas Department of Licensing and Registration (TDLR) regulates home warranty companies in the state. The TDLR requires providers to routinely send in reports demonstrating financial soundness. Providers must also keep a record of all consumer claims that the TDLR audits annually.

In addition to government regulation, industry associations, such as the Service Contract Industry Council, regulate home warranties

To avoid signing up with an unreputable provider, Timothy Meenan, the managing shareholder at Meenan Regulatory and Legislative Attorneys Law Firm, recommends a quick company search to see if your provider is licensed. The TDLR provides a business license database on its website. 
If you believe your provider is neglecting its contractual obligations, you may file a complaint with the TDLR.


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.

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

Item/System

Average Cost to Repair

Average Cost to Replace

Exhaust fans

$16–$300

$250–$950

Refrigerator

$40–$350

$200–$5,000

Dehumidifier

$50–$200

$1,300–$2,800

Microwave

$50–$400

$60–$2,000

Washer

$50–$450

$400–$2,300

Dishwasher

$50–$500

$400–$3,000

Freezer

$90–$500

$160–$2,900

Dryer

$100–$400

$450–$2,300

Oven

$100–$430

$400–$3,000

Electric range

$100–$500

$230–$3,000

Gas range

$100–$500

$230–$3,000

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


How to Find Home Warranty Companies in Your City

Other Resources for Residents in Texas


FAQs About Home Warranties in Texas

Do home warranties cover air conditioning systems in Texas?

Most reputable home warranty companies include air conditioning system coverage in their base plans. Some providers only include air conditioning coverage in more expensive plans or as an add-on. Before signing up with a provider, read through its sample contract to fully understand your coverage options and exclusions.

What types of homes do home warranties cover?

Most Texas home warranty providers cover single-family homes, mobile homes, condos, and townhomes. Multifamily homes and apartment complexes are usually not covered. Providers may cover rental properties if they aren’t multifamily units or apartment complexes.

Do I need to have maintenance records for my systems and appliances before I get coverage in Texas?

Yes, you will need maintenance records, but it depends on the Texas home warranty company. Some providers require itemized maintenance records of your home’s systems and appliances to cover a breakdown fully. Other providers, such as American Home Shield, provide coverage for appliance and home system breakdowns without previous maintenance records.

Can I transfer my home warranty if I sell my Texas home?

Yes, most home warranty companies allow for the warranty transfer to a new homeowner. However, there may be specific requirements and fees associated with the transfer. Check with your home warranty provider for their policy on transferring coverage.

Can I choose my own service technician?

No, you can’t choose your own technicians with most Texas home warranties. Most providers send service technicians within their network to your home whenever you request service. However, if an in-network technician isn’t available near you, providers allow you to choose your own. You must first request authorization from your provider.


How Do I Find the Best Home Warranty Company in My Area?

Find in-depth reviews on the best home warranty companies for cities throughout the state. 

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.