Almost every contract excludes problems that existed before coverage began. That's one reason most new plans have a 30-day waiting period. If a technician concludes a failure started before your plan, the claim can be denied.
Pre-existing conditions
Lack of maintenance or improper installation
Contracts typically exclude failures caused by missing routine maintenance - for example, an AC unit that was never serviced or a water heater never flushed - and by improper installation. Keep receipts for HVAC service and other maintenance so you can show the item was cared for.
Top-Rated Providers
1
Our Top Pick
Choice Home Warranty
Read ReviewTwo simple plans covering home systems and appliances, with a $3,000 per-item cap and coverage in 49 states
- Basic & Total plans
- $3,000 per covered item
- Online claims, 24/7
- Available in 49 states
9.6
Exceptional
9.6
Exceptional
Two simple plans covering home systems and appliances, with a $3,000 per-item cap and coverage in 49 states
- Basic & Total plans
- $3,000 per covered item
- Online claims, 24/7
- Available in 49 states
Free Online Quote
2
American Home Shield
Read ReviewThe industry's oldest home warranty company - three plan tiers, a choice of service fee and some of the highest coverage caps
- ShieldSilver, Gold & Platinum
- Up to $5,000 HVAC coverage
- Choose a $100 or $125 fee
- In business since 1971
9.4
Excellent
9.4
Excellent
The industry's oldest home warranty company - three plan tiers, a choice of service fee and some of the highest coverage caps
- ShieldSilver, Gold & Platinum
- Up to $5,000 HVAC coverage
- Choose a $100 or $125 fee
- In business since 1971
3
Select Home Warranty
Read ReviewOne of the lowest-cost plans available, with frequent free-month and free roof coverage promotions
- Bronze, Gold & Platinum Care
- Low starting price
- Free roof leak coverage promo
- Multi-year plan options
9.1
Excellent
9.1
Excellent
One of the lowest-cost plans available, with frequent free-month and free roof coverage promotions
- Bronze, Gold & Platinum Care
- Low starting price
- Free roof leak coverage promo
- Multi-year plan options
Coverage caps
A claim can be approved and still leave you with a large bill if the repair exceeds the plan's cap. Caps vary enormously: some plans cap many items around $500, while others allow $2,000-$5,000 or more. Check the limits table before you buy - it's the single biggest difference between companies.
Code upgrades, permits and haul-away
When an old system is replaced, local codes may require upgrades (for example, new refrigerant standards or electrical changes). Many plans don't cover these costs unless you buy a tier that includes them - American Home Shield's ShieldPlatinum, for example, includes permits and code-violation coverage.
How to protect yourself
- Read the sample contract's exclusions and limits before buying.
- Keep maintenance records and photos of major systems.
- File claims promptly when something stops working.
- Never pay for repairs before approval unless the company authorizes it.
- If denied, ask for the reason in writing and escalate if you disagree.
See how to file a claim and compare caps across companies on our rankings page.
This article is general information, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Coverage, prices and terms vary by company, plan and state - always read the full sample contract before you buy.