Congratulations on your new home! Becoming a homeowner is one of life’s biggest milestones, and choosing First American Home Warranty means you’ve already taken a smart step toward protecting your investment. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about your First American Home Warranty, from understanding coverage to filing claims, maintaining your home, and making the most of your plan. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or moving into a new property, this article is your go-to resource.
What Is First American Home Warranty?
First American Home Warranty is one of the leading home warranty providers in the United States, serving homeowners for over 40 years. A home warranty is not insurance—it’s a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of major home systems and appliances when they break down due to normal wear and tear. With First American Home, you gain peace of mind knowing that unexpected repair costs won’t derail your budget.
Unlike homeowners insurance (which covers damage from events like fire or theft), First American Home Warranty focuses on the mechanical failures that happen over time—think air conditioning breakdowns in summer or a failing water heater in winter.
A happy couple sitting on the floor of their new living room, smiling at a laptop while reviewing their First American Home Warranty welcome packet. Caption: “Starting your homeownership journey with confidence thanks to First American Home.”
Why New Homeowners Need a Home Warranty
Buying a home is expensive. After closing costs, moving, and furnishing, the last thing you want is a $4,000 air conditioner replacement in your first year. Here’s why First American Home is especially valuable for new homeowners:
- Budget protection: Most plans cost $350–$800 per year, with service call fees of $75–$125.
- Prevents surprise expenses: Covers items often excluded from insurance.
- Easy claims process: 24/7 online or phone filing.
- Nationwide network: Access to over 15,000 pre-screened contractors.
- Transferable: Increases resale value if you sell within the warranty period.
Understanding Your First American Home Warranty Plans
First American Home offers three main plans to fit different needs:
- The basic plan covers 9 essential systems and appliances (e.g., plumbing, electrical, water heater, dishwasher).
- The Premier Plan (Most Popular) includes everything in Basic plus a refrigerator, washer/dryer, garage door opener, and more.
- The Premier Plus Plan adds premium upgrades like HVAC tune-ups, re-key service, and unlimited A/C refrigerant.
Optional add-ons include pool/spa equipment, a well pump, a second refrigerator, and a central vacuum.
Pro Tip: Review your home inspection report. If the inspector flagged an older roof or HVAC system, consider upgrading to a plan that covers those items.
How to File a Claim with First American Home
Filing a claim is simple and fast:
- Go online to firstam.com/homewarranty or call 1.800.327.9000 (24/7).
- Provide your contract number and describe the issue.
- Pay the service fee ($75–$125, depending on your plan).
- A qualified contractor is dispatched—usually within 24–48 hours.
- Repair or replacement is completed. You pay nothing beyond the service fee (unless you choose non-covered upgrades).
Real customer example: Sarah in Texas filed a claim for her broken oven at 8 PM. A technician arrived the next morning and replaced the heating element—all for her $85 service fee.
Step-by-step infographic showing the claim process: 1. Log in. 2. Describe the issue. 3. Pay fee, 4. The technician arrives at 5. Fixed! Caption: “Get back to enjoying your home in no time with First American Home.”
Tips for Maintaining Your Covered Items
Preventive care can reduce claims and extend appliance life:
- HVAC: Change air filters every 1–3 months; schedule annual tune-ups.
- Water heater: Flush annually to remove sediment.
- Dishwasher: Clean filter monthly; run vinegar cycle quarterly.
- Washer/Dryer: Clean the lint trap after every load; leave the door open to prevent mold.
- Plumbing: Avoid chemical drain cleaners; use mesh strainers.
First American Home even offers free seasonal maintenance reminders via email if you opt in.
Common Myths About Home Warranties—Debunked
Myth 1: “My new appliances are still under manufacturer warranty.” Fact: Manufacturer warranties are usually only 1 year and don’t cover labor.
Myth 2: “They’ll just deny my claim.” Fact: First American has an A+ rating with the BBB and approves over 90% of claims.
Myth 3: “It’s not worth the money.” Fact: The average homeowner saves $1,200+ per year on repairs.
How First American Home Helps When Selling Your Home
Listing your house? Offer to pay for a First American Home Warranty for the buyer (often just $400–$600). Sellers who include a warranty sell homes 11 days faster and for $2,300 more on average, according to a 2023 study.
Renewing Your First American Home Warranty
Your plan auto-renews unless canceled. Renewal reminders are sent 60 and 30 days before expiration. Many homeowners save by paying annually instead of monthly. You can upgrade or downgrade coverage at renewal.
A modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances and a small “Protected by First American Home Warranty” sticker on the fridge. Caption: “Everyday peace of mind in your First American Home.”
Final Thoughts
Owning a home is exciting—and a little overwhelming. With First American Home Warranty, you’re never alone when something breaks. From your first day in the house to the day you hand over the keys to the next owner, this coverage protects your wallet and your sanity. Take a moment today to log into your account, explore your coverage, and rest easy knowing you’re prepared for whatever comes next.
Welcome home—and welcome to the First American Home family!
FAQ: First American Home Warranty
Q: How quickly does First American send a technician? A: Typically within 24–48 hours. Emergency services (like no heat in winter) are prioritized.
Q: Can I choose my own contractor? A: Yes! With the “Contractor of Choice” option, you can select your trusted technician, and First American will reimburse approved costs.
Q: What happens if a covered item can’t be repaired? A: First American will replace it with a similar model or provide a cash payment (minus your service fee).
Q: Is there a waiting period before I can file a claim? A: 30 days for new contracts. If the warranty was purchased at closing by the seller, coverage starts immediately.
Q: Does the warranty cover pre-existing conditions? A: No, only breakdowns due to normal wear and tear after the contract starts. Unknown pre-existing issues are generally covered if they weren’t detectable.
Helpful Links
- Official Website & Claims Portal: https://homewarranty.firstam.com
- Wikipedia – Home Warranty: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Home_warranty
- Medium – “Is a Home Warranty Worth It? A First-Time Buyer’s Guide” (2024 article): https://medium.com/@homeownerhub/is-a-home-warranty-worth-it-a-first-time-buyers-guide-8f2a1b3c9d1e
Have questions about your specific plan? Call First American at 1.800.327.9000 or chat online—they’re friendly and ready to help!
