California Home Warranties
Virginia Home Warranties
First American Home Warranty Review for 2024
Are unexpected home repair costs adding stress to your life? You’re not alone. Welcome to our updated 2024 review of First American Home Warranty. Whether you’re a current homeowner seeking peace of mind or a prospective buyer protecting your investment, this guide is here to help.
Industry expert Scott Dylan Westerlund—renowned for his insights on Angi.com, HomeAdvisor, and Today’s Homeowner—breaks down everything you need to know about First American Home Warranty.
In this review, we’ll cover:
- Key features of their home warranty plans
- Coverage options, costs, and service fees
- Customer reviews and common complaints
- A comparison with top competitor Choice Home Warranty
Let’s dive in and help you decide if First American Home Warranty is the right fit for your needs.
KEY TAKEAWAYS–
- BBB Rating: “B” Rated and Accredited Since 5/30/2000
- Time in Business: 39 years
- BBB Complaints: First American Home Warranty has 4,747 complaints in the last 3 years
- Customer Reviews at TrustPilot: 11,648 reviews with an average rating of 3.8/5 stars
- Cost: First American home warranty plans cost between $47 to $72 per month
Pros
Offers solid coverage for major systems and appliances. With First American Home Warranty coverage transferability, you can even carry your plan with you to a new home.
24/7 claims availability that includes holidays and weekends.
Lots of add-on coverage is available to help customers customize their contracts.
Cancellation is free within the first 30 days. After 30 days, you need to call to speak with a representative about the First American Home Warranty cancellation process.
Allows you to control your premiums by selecting your service call fee.
Cons
Coverage is only available in 35 states. You cannot purchase a First American policy in Alaska, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Vermont, or Wisconsin.
First American Home Warranty waiting periods last 30 days before claims can be made.
Lack of coverage for air conditioners in the Starter plan will force most people to upgrade to the Essential plan.
Add-on options for roof leaks and electronics are skimpy compared to competitors.
No systems-only plan.
What Is First American Home Warranty?
First American Home Warranty (FAHW) has been a trusted name in the industry since its founding in 1984, building on the broader legacy of First American, a company established in 1899. Beyond home warranties, First American offers services such as title and insurance, trust and closing services, and lending solutions, making it a multifaceted leader in real estate and homeownership needs.
FAHW provides homeowners protection against expensive repairs and replacements for essential systems and appliances. Using a network of prescreened contractors, the company ensures quality service to help minimize the stress of unexpected breakdowns. If you’re comparing top-rated home warranty companies, First American Home Warranty and American Home Shield are two key contenders worth exploring.
Overview of First American Home Warranty Coverage
First American Home Warranty offers coverage for vital home systems and appliances, with the flexibility to add protections for pools, spas, well pumps, and more. Additionally, exclusive upgrades address concerns such as appliance hauling, code violations, and correction of installation failures.
Key features include:
- Coverage Limits: Up to $3,500 for appliances under Starter and Essential plans, and up to $7,000 under the Premium plan.
- Unlimited HVAC Coverage: No cap on heating, air conditioning, or ductwork repairs.
- Optional Add-Ons: Extend protection to less common items like septic systems or additional refrigerators.
First American Home Warranty Plans and Pricing
While some home warranty companies offer a high-end tier and low-end tier, First American offers three plans to help you customize your coverage based on your needs.
1. Starter Plan
- Monthly Cost: $47
- Coverage: Includes major appliances (e.g., refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers) and systems like plumbing, heating, and electrical.
2. Essential Plan
- Monthly Cost: $57
- Coverage: Adds air conditioning, water heaters, washer/dryer units, and garage door openers to Starter coverage.
3. Premium Plan
- Monthly Cost: $72
- Coverage: Expands to include garbage disposals, trash compactors, mini-split systems, faucets, and premium coverage upgrades like code violations and improper installations.
Keep in mind that a home warranty plan is not a substitute or replacement for home insurance. If you’re also shopping around for home insurance, take a look at these important questions to ask when buying a home insurance policy.
How First American Home Warranty Compares to Other Companies
Select Home Warranty vs. First American
Select Home Warranty offers plans starting at $41, making it the budget-friendly choice. However, First American delivers more comprehensive coverage per tier. Select allows you to choose between appliance-only or system-only plans, whereas First American combines both in all tiers for convenience.
Choice Home Warranty vs. First American
Choice Home Warranty operates in 49 states compared to First American’s 35.
While Choice offers two plans starting at $46, First American’s Premium plan offers higher coverage limits, making it ideal for homeowners seeking robust protection for high-value items.
For more details on warranty providers, check out our guides to the top home warranty companies.
- Best California Home Warranties
- Best Virginia Home Warranties
- Liberty Home Guard Warranty Reviews
- Choice Home Warranty Reviews
Is First American Home Warranty Worth It?
While First American’s premiums may seem higher, its robust coverage, generous limits, and optional add-ons provide excellent value for homeowners seeking comprehensive protection.
Coverage for appliances up to $7,000 and unlimited HVAC coverage are standout features. Additionally, add-ons like septic tank protection start at just $7 per month, making customization affordable.
First American Home Warranty Customer Reviews
Better Business Bureau (BBB):
- Rating: “B”
- Customer Reviews: 2.07 out of 5 stars based on 2,122 reviews.
- Trustpilot: Rating: 3.8 out of 5 stars (“Great”) from over 11,000 reviews.
- Key Praise: Fast service, helpful customer support, and easy claim processing.
First American Warranty Customer Complaints:
Some customers report issues with contractor availability and delays in service due to communication gaps. Others highlight frustration with preexisting condition exclusions. Despite these, many testimonials praise significant savings and hassle-free repairs.
Claim Process and Customer Support
- 24/7 Claims: File online or via phone anytime.
- Service Call Fees: $75–$125, depending on your plan.
- Turnaround Time: Typically within 48 hours, though contractor availability can vary by region.
First American also allows customers to choose their own contractor with prior approval, offering flexibility not all competitors provide.
Limitations and Exclusions
While First American provides extensive coverage, exclusions include:
- Damage from acts of nature or toxic materials.
- Routine maintenance and preexisting conditions.
- Specific appliance parts (e.g., knobs, glass doors).
For complete coverage details, it’s crucial to review your contract.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is First American Home Warranty a ripoff?
Is First American Home Warranty worth it?
Is First American Home Warranty worth it, according to customer comments on Reddit?
First American Home Warranty vs. Landmark Home Warranty – Which plan is best?
How do I buy a home warranty from First American?
How do I file a claim with First American Home Warranty?
How long does it take after a claim is made for a technician to come?
Does First American Home Warranty cover roof leaks?
Does First American Home Warranty cover mold?
Does First American Home Warranty cover water damage?
Does First American Home Warranty cover termites and insects?
Does First American Home Warranty cover theft?
Does First American Home Warranty cover damage from trees?
What additional home warranty coverages are offered by First American Home Warranty?
Does First American Home Warranty have customer complaints?
Conclusion
Final Thoughts: A Top Contender in 2024
First American Home Warranty continues to be a strong option for homeowners seeking comprehensive coverage with high limits. While the higher premiums may deter price-conscious shoppers, the extensive benefits and add-on flexibility make it worth considering.
For those balancing their home protection needs with other financial priorities, exploring questions to ask before choosing a home insurance policy or the best personal loans for unexpected expenses can complement a home warranty investment.
If you’re exploring other types of coverage, check out our guides on pet insurance and top car warranty companies.
First American Home Warranty Rating Breakdown:
| Criteria | Description | Points |
| BBB Rating and Licensing | BBB A+ and Accredited = 10, A = 9, A- = 8, B+ = 7, B = 6, B- = 5, C = 4, D = 3, E = 2, F = 1, No industry license = 0 | 6 |
| Customer Reviews | Average weighted rating across multiple sources including BBB, Best Company, U.S. News 360 Reviews, Consumer Affairs, Google Reviews, TrustPilot, Investopedia, and MarketWatch. (1-10) | 8 |
| Lawsuits and Complaints | Number and nature of complaints and lawsuits, resolution, responsiveness, ratio of total clients to total complaints. (1-10) | 7 |
| Average Monthly Cost | Scoring based on lower monthly plan costs. (1-10) | 8 |
| Coverage for Essential Components | Points awarded for covering all major home system and appliance components. (1-10) | 10 |
| Claims Processing Efficiency | Ease of filing claims and efficient claims processing. (1-10) | 10 |
| Customer Support | Availability of 24/7 support, response time, and friendliness of customer service. (1-10) | 10 |
| Extra Features | Points for high-quality add-on coverage options. (1-10) | 9 |
| Reviewer Opinion | Holistic evaluation of quality and trustworthiness. (1-20) | 17 |
| Total Points | 85 |
Scott Dylan Westerlund has been writing about home improvement, repair, and maintenance for almost ten years. In addition to Trusted Company Reviews, he writes for Angi, HomeAdvisor, Today's Homeowner, Homedit, Flyhomes, and HomeLight. You'll find his byline on articles about everything from buying a house and managing rentals to clearing clogged drains and picking the right lumber for your home improvement project. Prior to writing, Scott was an apprentice building contractor and property manager--so he knows how to keep the lights on and the water running.
Scott Dylan Westerlund
Last Updated: November 20, 2024
Editorial Reviews
Must Reads
Best Senior Discounts
You may be getting a little older, but it’s not all bad. With age comes wisdom, and some pretty amazing senior discounts. Retailers across the nation want your business and to draw you in, are offering steep discounts on their products and services. In this article,...
Top Travel Ideas for Seniors with Limited Mobility
Are you a senior who finds travel difficult due to mobility and accessibility challenges? If so, you’re not alone. A study by the Bureau of Transportation found that more than 57% of people over age 65 have a similar experience. To help you live out your travel...
Can I Refinance My Private Student Loan?
The weight of student loan debt can feel overwhelming, especially for graduates of professional programs like law school and medical school. According to the latest data from the American Bar Association, the average law school graduate owes approximately $130,000 in...
Personal Loan Vs. Personal Line of Credit
Finding the right financial solution often comes down to choosing between the two most popular options, including a personal loan vs personal line of credit. While both offer ways to borrow money when you need it, they work in very different ways, and each has unique...
Top Travel Ideas for Seniors on a Budget
Is travel for seniors on a budget still possible? So, you’ve officially retired. Now what? Maybe it’s finally time to travel the world, just like you always said you would. Whether you’re part of the 63% of seniors planning to travel domestically or the 37% taking an...
The Best Home Equity Loans in California for All Home Types
California homeowners seeking to borrow against their home’s value have several and flexible lending options. However, not all equity borrowing options are created equal. The best home equity loans in California offer competitive rates, transparent fees, and favorable...
The Best Home Equity Loans in Oklahoma and How to Get One
Oklahoma homeowners looking for ways to unlock their home’s value have multiple borrowing options. However, finding the right lender can be challenging. The best home equity loans in Oklahoma combine competitive rates and terms, as well as minimal processing fees and...
Home Equity Loan Vs Personal Loan: Pros, Cons, Choices
When comparing a home equity loan vs personal loan, it can be tough to know which one is best for your financial needs. Both options offer ways to borrow money, but they differ in structure, purpose, and requirements. Choosing the right one can make a big difference...
Best Texas Home Equity Loans and HELOCS 2025
If you’re thinking about a home equity loan in Texas, there’s a lot to consider. To find the best Texas home equity loans you have to research lenders, rates, and borrowing limits. There are additional factors, like qualifying for a Texas home equity loan and your...
Best Home Equity Loans in Arizona: Top Lenders and Best Options
Arizona residents looking to unlock the value of their homes' equity have multiple financing options to explore. However, choosing the right lender can be overwhelming. The best home equity loans in Arizona offer competitive interest rates, low fees, and flexible...
Social Links
