Best 7 Home Warranty Companies in Birmingham, AL

Are Home Warranties Worth It for Birmingham Residents?

Home warranties are worth it for Birmingham residents. Summers in Birmingham are very hot, which makes it extremely important that your air conditioner is working well. However, over time this system can malfunction from heavy use.

Birmingham winters are fairly mild, but there will still be days when you rely on your heating. HVAC system replacement can cost anywhere between $2,500 and $8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, run about $644–$737 per year, based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies across the nation.

Birmingham's heavy rain can cause damage to your roof. Some home warranty policies include limited roof-leak coverage, which can mitigate the cost of roof repair. Finally, home warranties connect you with reliable technicians.

When work and other priorities keep you busy, you want to know a trustworthy service provider is handling your repairs. Reputable home warranty companies vet all their service providers.

What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company

Think about these important factors when picking the best home warranty plan for you.

Cost

We pulled 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and determined that home warranties cost an average of $53–$62 per month. There are also service call fees that apply each time you file a claim. These fees range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans are typically more affordable than comprehensive ones. A home systems coverage plan will usually cost more than an appliance plan. Many plans have add-on coverage options, but this will increase your monthly cost, so make sure you know what you need before choosing a plan.

Coverage

Most home warranties can be somewhat customized to your needs. Think about which systems and appliances you use often and need covered. If you only want coverage for select appliances or systems (such as your air conditioning), you can often find plans to fit. The following is a list of common systems coverage:

• Air conditioner
• Central vacuum
• Ductwork
• Electrical
• Heating
• Plumbing
• Water heater

• Built-in microwaves
• Clothes washers and dryers
• Dishwashers
• Garbage disposals
• Ovens
• Refrigerators
• Stovetops

Exclusions

Generally, home warranties don't cover preexisting conditions or improper installation. Most policies will only cover normal wear and tear. Most also exclude appliance components or cosmetic issues, theft, defects, or routine maintenance. Providers outline their limitations and exclusions in their service contracts. Read your contract thoroughly to ensure you understand the terms and conditions of your plan.

Provider Reputation

Consider a company's reputation when making a decision. You can also read real customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot, Best Company, and Google Reviews. Customer reviews can show you how providers handle claims and customer service. Check with the Alabama Attorney General to verify that a provider holds a valid state license.

Contractor Network

Consider a home warranty company's service provider network. Any provider you choose should use licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests; make sure to ask your company how and where it sources technicians. Select a provider that mentions service contractors you're familiar with. Residents of rural areas should consider choosing a home warranty that lets them select their technician. There may be no in-network service providers available in these areas, and customers may need to source their own.