America’s First Home Warranty: A Complete Overview
America’s first home warranty offers peace of mind for homeowners. It covers unexpected repairs on home systems and appliances. First American leads this field. They protect against breakdowns from normal wear.
Homeownership brings joy and challenges. Sudden fixes can strain budgets. A good warranty steps in here. It handles costs for plumbing, electrical, and more. This guide dives deep into First American’s offerings. You will learn key facts to decide wisely.
First American started in 1984. They focus on real estate services. Over time, they grew into a trusted name. They serve 36 states and Washington, D.C. Their plans suit many needs.
History and Background of America’s First Home Warranty
First American Home Warranty began operations in 1984. It is part of the larger First American family. This group has roots in title insurance and real estate. They bring decades of expertise to home protection.
The company aimed to ease repair worries for owners. Early on, they bundled warranties with home sales. This helped buyers and sellers. It made transactions smoother. Today, they cover millions of homes.
Their growth shows in awards. U.S. News rated them 4.5 out of 5. They excel in frequent claims handling. NerdWallet gave them 3.0 stars overall. Best Company scores them 8.4. These marks come from real user feedback.
First American stands out for innovation. They added high limits on coverage. This suits older homes or luxury items. They partner with vetted pros for repairs. This ensures quality work.
In real estate, they integrate well. Agents often recommend them. This boosts property value. For example, a seller might include a year of coverage. It attracts more buyers.
Their mission remains simple. Protect homes from surprise costs. They evolve with needs. Now, they offer online claims. This speeds up service.
Key Achievements in the Home Warranty Industry
First American has many wins. They rank top for unlimited service calls. No cap on requests per year. This helps active households.
They cover high-end appliances up to $7,000. Few competitors match this. Roof leak protection is another plus. It caps at $1,000 but aids in wet areas.
Customer satisfaction shines in stats. Over 4,300 reviews on Best Company. Average 4.4 stars from users. They praise quick fixes.
In 2025, they expanded add-ons. Now include seasonal HVAC tune-ups. This prevents issues before they start.
They hold a B+ from the Better Business Bureau. This reflects solid practices. Complaints get resolved fast.
Compared to others, they lead in flexibility. Service fees range from $75 to $125. Pick what fits your budget.
Their real estate ties set them apart. Bundles for new buyers save money. This integration earns trust.
Plans Offered by America’s First Home Warranty
First American provides three main plans. Each builds on the last. They cover both systems and appliances.
Starter or Basic Plan
This entry-level option keeps costs low. It protects key appliances. Think dishwasher and refrigerator.
It also covers plumbing basics. Stoppages and toilets included. Electrical systems get attention too.
Heating is part of it. Ductwork repairs happen. No air conditioning here though.
Ideal for budget-conscious owners. Starts around $42 monthly.
Essential Plan
This steps up coverage. Adds clothes washer and dryer. Water heater joins the list.
Air conditioning systems are now protected. Garage door openers too. All fans, like exhaust ones, covered.
It boosts limits on items. Up to $3,500 for appliances. First American Advantage adds $500 for codes or improper installs.
Suits families with more needs. Averages $69 to $84 per month.
Premium Plan
The top tier for full protection. Includes central vacuum. Garage door parts fully covered.
Plumbing fixtures like faucets added. Unlimited repairs on water heaters. Same for washer and dryer.
Appliance limits jump to $7,000. First American Advantage rises to $1,500. Covers window AC units.
Perfect for luxury homes. Costs about $104 monthly on average.
Coverage Details and What It Includes
America’s first home warranty focuses on normal wear. It fixes breakdowns from daily use.
Systems Coverage
Plumbing gets broad protection. Pipes, toilets, and garbage disposals. Stoppages cleared without hassle.
Electrical wiring and panels covered. Outlets and switches too. Heating systems include furnaces and ducts.
HVAC is key in higher plans. Air conditioning repairs up to $1,500. Unlimited in some cases.
Appliance Coverage
Kitchen items lead the way. Refrigerators and ovens protected. Built-in microwaves included.
Laundry appliances in mid-tier. Washers and dryers fixed. Trash compactors in Essential.
Premium adds luxury touches. Instant hot water dispensers. Higher caps for peace.
Add-On Options
Customize your plan. Pool and spa equipment for $25 extra monthly.
Well pumps and septic systems available. Water softeners too. Additional fridges for big families.
Roof leaks as limited coverage. Up to $1,000 for repairs. Seasonal tune-ups prevent problems.
Exclusions to Note
Not everything qualifies. Pre-existing issues out. Cosmetic damage not covered.
Natural disasters excluded. Improper maintenance voids claims. Solar systems often not included.
Hazardous materials skipped. Commercial properties no. Always check fine print.
Pricing and Costs Explained
Costs vary by location and plan. Monthly premiums range from $42 to $142.
Service fees per claim: $75 to $125. Higher fee lowers monthly bill.
For example, in California, Starter might be $47. In Texas, around $107.
Annual payment saves a bit. Cancellation within 30 days: full refund minus $50.
After that, prorated refund. But claims might block cancellation.
Add-ons add $5 to $25 monthly. Pool coverage popular in warm states.
Compare quotes online. Factors like home size matter.
Pros and Cons of Choosing This Warranty
Weigh benefits against drawbacks. This helps decide.
Advantages
Unlimited service requests. File as many as needed.
High coverage limits. Up to $7,000 on appliances.
Flexible fees. Choose $100 or $125.
Roof protection available. Rare in industry.
Vetted contractors. Licensed pros handle work.
Easy claims. Online or phone 24/7.
Integrates with home buys. Boosts real estate deals.
Disadvantages
No systems-only plans. Must get combo.
Base plan skips AC. Need upgrade.
Shorter guarantee: 30 days on repairs.
Claim denials happen. Read policy well.
Limited states: 36 only.
Service fees above average.
Cancellation tricky after claims.
How to File a Claim
Filing is simple. Follow these steps.
- Spot the Issue. Note the problem.
- Contact Them. Call or go online 24/7.
- Describe Details. Give home info and issue.
- Wait for Tech. Assigned within hours.
- Pay Fee. At visit time.
- Approve Work. They cover approved costs.
- Follow Up. If needed, call back.
Tips: Keep records. Photos help. Act fast to avoid worse damage.
Customer Reviews and Experiences
Reviews are mixed but informative. U.S. News: 4.5/5 for claims ease.
NerdWallet: 3.0/5, praises limits, notes service gripes.
Best Company: 8.4/10 with 4,300+ reviews. Users like affordability.
Positive: Quick techs, pro service. “Saved me $2,000 on AC fix,” one said.
Negative: Denied claims, delays. “Waited weeks for approval,” another shared.
Overall, 70% recommend. Check recent feedback.
Comparing to Other Providers
First American vs. American Home Shield. Both cover basics. First has higher appliance caps.
Vs. Choice Home Warranty. Choice cheaper, but lower limits.
Vs. Liberty Home Guard. Liberty offers tech add-ons. First better for roofs.
Look at needs. Frequent claims? Go First.
Stats show First leads in unlimited calls. Others cap at 3-5 yearly.
For older homes, their no-age limit wins.
Tips for Selecting a Home Warranty
Choose wisely. Here are pointers.
- Assess Needs. List key systems.
- Compare Plans. Check caps and exclusions.
- Read Reviews. Real stories matter.
- Get Quotes. Location affects price.
- Ask About Add-Ons. Tailor to home.
- Understand Terms. Know cancellations.
- Bundle if Buying. Save on real estate deals.
Visit sites like U.S. News Real Estate for more.
For decor ideas post-repair, check DecoBry.
Common Myths Debunked
Myth: Warrants cover everything. Fact: Only wear and tear.
Myth: Same as insurance. Fact: Insurance for disasters, warranty for breakdowns.
Myth: Too expensive. Fact: Averages $500 yearly, saves thousands.
Myth: Can’t choose techs. Fact: Must use network for coverage.
Myth: New homes don’t need. Fact: Appliances fail anytime.
Benefits for Different Homeowners
New buyers love bundles. Covers from day one.
Seniors appreciate unlimited calls. Less worry.
Families with kids: Appliance heavy use covered.
Renters? Sometimes, if owner provides.
Large homes: Higher plans fit.
In hot areas: AC add-ons essential.
Real-Life Examples
Take Sarah in Texas. Her AC broke in summer. First American fixed it for $100 fee. Saved $1,200.
John in California: Washer failed. Replaced under Premium. No out-of-pocket beyond fee.
But Mike faced denial. Pre-existing rust issue. Lesson: Maintain well.
These show real value.
Integration with Real Estate
First American shines here. Sellers offer to buyers. Builds trust.
Agents use in listings. “Includes warranty” attracts offers.
For flips: Protects during sale. Covers surprises.
Stats: Homes with warranties sell 11% faster per industry data.
Future Trends in Home Warranties
Industry shifts to smart homes. Expect IoT coverage soon.
More eco-friendly options. Solar add-ons growing.
Online everything: Apps for claims.
First American leads with updates.
FAQs About America’s First Home Warranty
What does america’s first home warranty cover?
It protects systems like plumbing and appliances from wear.
How much is the service fee?
Ranges from $75 to $125 per claim.
Can I cancel anytime?
Within 30 days, yes. After, prorated, but claims affect.
Does it cover roofs?
Limited add-on up to $1,000.
Is AC included in base plan?
No, needs Essential or higher.
How to get a quote?
Online or call. Quick process.
Vs. homeowners insurance?
Warranty for breakdowns, insurance for damage.
Conclusion: Why Choose America’s First Home Warranty
America’s first home warranty provides solid protection. It covers key home parts affordably. With high limits and unlimited calls, it reassures owners. Plans fit various budgets. Add-ons customize further.
It saves money on repairs. Integrates with home buys well. Though not in all states, it excels where available.
Ready to safeguard your home? What repair worries you most?
References
- U.S. News & World Report: First American Home Warranty Review – Detailed plans and ratings.
- NerdWallet: First American Home Warranty Review – Pricing and customer insights.
- Best Company: First American Home Warranty Reviews – User feedback and scores.
