Introduction to First American Home Warranty Plans

First american home warranty plans offer peace of mind for homeowners. They cover unexpected breakdowns in home systems and appliances. This saves you from high repair costs. Many people choose these plans to protect their investments. In this article, we dive deep into what makes these plans stand out.

Home warranties differ from standard insurance. They focus on normal wear and tear. First american home warranty plans include options for various needs. Whether you own a new house or an older one, these plans help. They connect you with trusted contractors quickly.

What Are Home Warranties and Why Choose First American?

Home warranties protect against sudden failures. They cover items like plumbing and heating. First american home warranty plans stand out for their flexibility. The company has served customers for over 35 years. It operates in 36 states across the U.S.

First American started in 1984. It began as a title insurance firm. Over time, it expanded into home warranties. Today, it helps millions of homeowners. The plans aim to reduce stress from home repairs.

Statistics show home repairs cost Americans billions yearly. For example, fixing an air conditioner can run $2,500 to $7,500. With a warranty, you pay a small fee instead. This makes budgeting easier. First American’s plans have no age limits on homes or appliances. That appeals to many buyers.

Breaking Down the First American Home Warranty Plans

First american home warranty plans come in three main types. Each builds on the last for more coverage. Let’s look at them closely.

Starter Plan: Basic Protection for Essentials

The Starter Plan is the entry level. It covers key appliances and systems. Items include your dishwasher and refrigerator. It also handles plumbing stoppages and electrical systems.

This plan suits new homeowners on a budget. Costs start around $42 per month. You pick a service fee of $100 or $125. Lower fees mean higher monthly payments. But it keeps things affordable.

Pros include unlimited coverage for some systems. Like HVAC and plumbing. Cons? It skips air conditioning in basic form. Add-ons can fix that. For details on this plan, check the official pricing page.

Essential Plan: Comprehensive Coverage for Daily Needs

Step up to the Essential Plan. It adds more items to the Starter. Think clothes washer and dryer. Plus, your water heater and air conditioning.

This is the most popular choice. Why? It balances cost and coverage. Monthly fees range from $57 to $122. It includes the First American Advantage. This covers code upgrades up to $500.

Imagine your AC breaks in summer. Without a plan, costs soar. With Essential, a contractor fixes it fast. No big bills for you. This plan has high caps, like $3,500 per appliance.

Premium Plan: Top-Tier Safeguards for Luxury Items

The Premium Plan offers the most. It includes everything from lower plans. Plus, central vacuum and full garage door systems.

Luxury appliances get special attention here. Caps go up to $7,000 per item. Water heaters have unlimited coverage. Add-ons like roof leaks are available.

Pricing sits at $77 to $142 monthly. It’s ideal for larger homes. Or those with high-end features. For real estate pros, these plans help close deals. See more on real estate options.

Key Features of First American Home Warranty Plans

First american home warranty plans shine with unique perks. Here are some highlights:

• Unlimited Coverage Limits: For HVAC, electrical, and plumbing. No caps on major systems.
• Flexible Service Fees: Choose $100 or $125. Adjust to fit your budget.
• 24/7 Claims Service: Submit online or by phone. Get help anytime.
• Pre-Screened Contractors: Trusted pros handle repairs. No searching needed.
• 30-Day Repair Guarantee: Fixes hold for a month. Or they come back free.

Optional add-ons expand protection. Cover pools, spas, or well pumps. Even seasonal HVAC tune-ups. These extras cost $5 to $25 monthly. They tailor the plan to your home.

Customer reviews praise quick responses. One user said, “My fridge broke, and they fixed it in days.” But some note denied claims. Always read terms carefully.

Pricing Breakdown: How Much Do These Plans Cost?

Costs vary by location and plan. Starter starts at $35 monthly. But averages $42 to $107. Essential hits $57 to $122. Premium reaches $77 to $142.

Service fees apply per claim. Pick higher to lower premiums. No hidden charges. Get a free quote online.

Compare to averages. Most warranties cost $55 monthly. First American stays competitive. In cities like Dallas, plans average $69.50. Tulsa sees $104.50.

Without warranty, repairs hurt. Oven fix: $600 to $3,000. Water heater: $600 to $5,600. Plans save money long-term.

Coverage Details: What’s Included and Excluded?

Plans cover normal wear. Not misuse or disasters. Starter includes:

• Plumbing system
• Electrical system
• Heating and ductwork
• Dishwasher
• Refrigerator
• Garbage disposal
• Oven and cooktop
• Built-in microwave

Essential adds:

• Clothes washer and dryer
• Water heater
• Air conditioning
• Garage door opener

Premium expands to:

• Central vacuum
• Faucets and fixtures
• Instant hot water dispenser
• Luxury appliance upgrades

Exclusions: Cosmetic damage. Pre-existing issues. Natural wear on roofs without add-on. Check policy for full list.

Caps vary. Appliances: $3,500 to $7,000. Systems often unlimited. Water heaters: $1,000 to unlimited.

How to File a Claim with First American

Filing is simple. Follow these steps:

1. Spot the Issue: Notice a breakdown? Act fast.
2. Submit Claim: Use online portal or call 24/7 line.
3. Pay Service Fee: $100 or $125 upfront.
4. Technician Arrives: Pre-screened pro diagnoses.
5. Repair or Replace: Company covers approved costs.

If denied, appeal with details. Cash in lieu option exists. But it may be less than repair cost.

Benefits for Homeowners and Real Estate Professionals

Homeowners gain reassurance. No surprise bills. Budget for maintenance easily.

For real estate agents, plans sweeten deals. Buyers feel secure. Sellers cover during listing. This boosts sales. Learn more in this NerdWallet review.

Statistics: 70% of home buyers want warranties. They reduce post-sale disputes. First American partners with agents for custom plans.

Comparing First American to Competitors

First American vs. American Home Shield: AHS offers more plan types. But higher fees. First American has better caps.

Vs. Choice Home Warranty: Similar prices. But fewer options. First American excels in unlimited systems.

Pros: High coverage, flexible fees. Cons: No basic-only plans. Shorter guarantee.

Ratings: NerdWallet gives 3.0 overall. Price at 4.0. Coverage limits 5.0.

Tips for Choosing the Right Plan

Pick based on home needs. Consider these:

• Assess Your Home: Older houses need more coverage.
• Budget Wisely: Balance monthly costs and fees.
• Read Reviews: Check customer experiences.
• Add Extras: For pools or luxury items.
• Get Quotes: Compare states.

Enhance your home with related services. For decor ideas, visit DecoBry.

Common Myths About Home Warranties Debunked

Myth: They cover everything. Fact: Only wear and tear.

Myth: Too expensive. Fact: Saves on big repairs.

Myth: Hard to claim. Fact: Online process is easy.

Myth: Only for new homes. Fact: No age limits.

Customer Experiences and Satisfaction

Many praise fast service. “Contractor arrived same day,” one said.

But some complain about denials. Overall satisfaction: 3.0 rating.

BBB accredits the company. A- rating. Complaints resolved quickly.

State Availability and Customization

Available in 36 states. Not all. Check your area.

Plans adjust by state. California may differ from Texas.

Real estate plans for transactions. Cover during escrow.

Future of Home Warranties with First American

Industry grows 5% yearly. More smart homes need coverage.

First American innovates. Adds tech for claims.

Stay protected as homes evolve.

FAQs About First American Home Warranty Plans

What do first american home warranty plans cover? Appliances and systems from wear.

How much is the service fee? $100 or $125 per claim.

Can I cancel anytime? Yes, but fees after claims.

Do plans cover old appliances? Yes, no age restrictions.

What’s the repair guarantee? 30 days on fixes.

Conclusion: Secure Your Home Today

First american home warranty plans provide reliable protection. They cover key systems and appliances affordably. With flexible options, they fit most homes. Choose Starter for basics or Premium for full coverage. Save on repairs and gain peace.

Ready to protect your home? What plan suits your needs best?

References

1. First American Home Warranty. (n.d.). Real Estate Plans. Retrieved from https://homewarranty.firstam.com/real-estate-plans – Details on plans for agents and buyers.
2. First American Home Warranty. (n.d.). Pricing and Plans. Retrieved from https://homewarranty.firstam.com/homeowner/pricing-and-plans – Comprehensive pricing info for homeowners.
3. NerdWallet. (2026). First American Home Warranty Review. Retrieved from https://www.nerdwallet.com/home-ownership/home-warranty/reviews/first-american-home-warranty – Independent review with ratings and comparisons.