Introduction to 1st American Home Warranty
Homeowners face unexpected repair costs. 1st american home warranty offers a solution. It covers breakdowns from normal wear. This plan helps avoid high bills. Founded in 1984, the company leads in this field. It operates from Santa Rosa, California. Over nearly 40 years, it has built trust. Many choose it for peace of mind.
This warranty protects key home parts. Think plumbing and electrical systems. Appliances like dishwashers get coverage too. It uses a network of screened contractors. Repairs happen fast and right. Homeowners save time and money. The focus here is clear. 1st american home warranty stands out for its strength.
What Makes 1st American Home Warranty a Top Choice?
People pick warranties for reliability. 1st american home warranty shines here. It belongs to a larger family of services. This adds stability. Awards highlight its quality. For example, it ranks on Fortune’s Best Companies list. This is for the 10th year running. Such honors show commitment to staff and clients.
The company cares about communities too. It supports eagle conservation efforts. Campaigns raise funds for wildlife. This builds a positive image. Homeowners feel good about their choice. The warranty covers real needs. It handles failures due to age or use. No need to worry about sudden expenses.
Key Features of 1st American Home Warranty
Plans come in three main types. Each fits different needs. The Starter Plan covers basics. This includes plumbing and heating. Electrical systems get protection too. Appliances like ovens and fridges are included.
The Essential Plan adds more. Air conditioning joins the list. Clothes washers and dryers get covered. Water heaters are part of it. Garage door openers receive attention. This plan suits larger homes.
Premium Plan offers the most. It boosts limits on items. Luxury appliances gain higher coverage. Full garage systems are protected. Faucets and hot water dispensers get included. This is ideal for upscale properties.
All plans allow unlimited service calls. This is a big plus. No caps on requests mean freedom. Workmanship guarantees last 30 days. If issues return, fixes are free.
Coverage Details Under 1st American Home Warranty
What does it cover? Let’s break it down. Systems include plumbing stops. Electrical wiring gets fixed. Heating ducts are repaired. Air conditioning coils may be replaced. Limits apply, like $1,500 for HVAC per term.
Appliances vary by plan. Dishwashers and garbage disposals are standard. Refrigerators and microwaves too. In Premium, limits reach $7,000 per item. This handles high-end models. Older appliances qualify if working.
Exclusions exist for safety. Cosmetic defects skip coverage. Solar systems are out. Hazardous materials stay excluded. Commercial uses don’t apply. Always check the contract.
Optional add-ons expand protection. Pool and spa equipment costs extra. Well pumps can be added. Water softeners join the list. Reverse osmosis systems get coverage. Roof leaks have a $1,000 limit. This applies to certain roof types.
Pricing and Costs for 1st American Home Warranty
Costs stay affordable. Monthly fees range from $51 to $86. This depends on the plan. Starter is the lowest. Premium is higher but offers more. Service fees run $100 to $125 per call.
Annual payments save money. No hidden charges surprise you. Discounts may apply in some cases. Compare to averages. This warranty sits slightly above but provides value. For example, HVAC repairs cost $130 to $2,000. Coverage limits handle that.
In real estate, added perks shine. Seller’s protection reaches $50,000. This ties to E&O insurance. Structural coverage adds up to $10,000. These features attract agents and sellers.
Pros and Cons of Choosing 1st American Home Warranty
Every option has upsides. Here are the pros:
- High limits: Up to $7,000 per appliance.
- Unlimited calls: Request service anytime.
- Older items covered: Good for aged homes.
- Network of pros: Screened contractors ensure quality.
- Awards and stability: Backed by a strong company.
Cons include:
- State limits: Available in 36 states only.
- No app: Claims via phone or site.
- Higher fees: Compared to some rivals.
- Exclusions: Check for specifics.
- Wait times: Up to 48 hours for response.
Overall, pros outweigh cons for many.
How 1st American Home Warranty Works in Practice
Filing a claim is simple. Use the 24/7 phone line. Or log in online. Describe the issue. A contractor contacts you soon. Response aims for 48 hours.
Technicians arrive prepared. They fix or replace. You pay the service fee. The warranty covers the rest up to limits. If out-of-network, preapproval helps.
Examples show value. A broken AC in summer. Repair costs $1,000. Warranty pays after fee. Savings add up over time.
Customer Experiences with 1st American Home Warranty
Reviews give insights. US News rates it 4.5 stars. Ease of claims scores 4. Response time is 4. Coverage range hits 4.
BBB gives B+ grade. Some praise quick fixes. Others note denied claims. Long waits frustrate a few. Positive for high limits. Frequent users like it.
Testimonials highlight reliability. One user fixed a fridge twice. No extra costs. Another praised contractor skills. Community focus adds appeal.
Comparing 1st American Home Warranty to Competitors
How does it stack up? American Home Shield rates 4.7. Monthly costs $42 to $92. Service fees match. It offers more flexibility.
Liberty Home Guard scores 4.4. Fees are $85. Response is 48 hours. Guarantee lasts 60 days. Cheaper but less limits.
1st american home warranty excels in appliance caps. Good for luxury homes. Check state availability first.
Benefits for Real Estate Professionals
Agents love this warranty. It boosts listings. Seller’s E&O adds $50,000 protection. This reduces risks.
CRES partners offer extras. Retention reductions apply. Structural fixes up to $10,000. Available in key states like California and Texas.
Home buyers gain confidence. Warranties ease transitions. Repairs don’t derail deals.
Energy Efficiency and 1st American Home Warranty
Replacements meet standards. HVAC units hit 14 SEER. Water heaters follow NAECA rules. This saves energy.
For solar options, check add-ons. Though limited, it ties to modern homes. Explore renewable energy solutions for more efficiency.
Tips for Maximizing Your 1st American Home Warranty
Follow these steps:
- Review coverage: Know what’s included.
- Maintain items: Prevent issues with care.
- File promptly: Report breakdowns fast.
- Choose add-ons: Add pools or wells if needed.
- Compare plans: Pick based on home size.
These keep protection strong.
Common Questions About 1st American Home Warranty
What does 1st american home warranty cover?
It protects systems like plumbing. Appliances include dishwashers. Higher plans add AC and laundry.
How much does 1st american home warranty cost?
Monthly from $51 to $86. Fees $100 to $125 per service.
Is 1st american home warranty available everywhere?
No, only 36 states and DC. Check your area.
Can I add roof coverage?
Yes, as an option. Limit is $1,000 for leaks.
How do I file a claim?
Call 24/7 or use the website.
Conclusion
1st american home warranty provides solid protection. It covers key home elements. With high limits and unlimited calls, it reassures homeowners. Founded in 1984, its awards show quality. Plans fit various needs. Though not in all states, it excels where available. Consider it for peace of mind.
What home repair worries you most? Share in the comments.
References
- First American Home Warranty LinkedIn Profile – Company background and awards.
- CRES Insurance on First American – Real estate benefits and plan details.
- US News Review of First American – Ratings, pros, cons, and coverage insights.