First American Home Warranty Review

First American Home Warranty Review

In the competitive field of home warranty companies, First American Home Warranty (FAHW) stands out with its years of experience and dedication to easing homeowners’ financial burdens due to unexpected repairs. Established to provide peace of mind, FAHW offers extensive coverage, transparent pricing, and an efficient claim process, making it a formidable choice for homeowners.

First American Home Warranty Plans

First American Home Warranty simplifies the selection process with two primary plans: the Basic Plan and the Premier Plan.

The Basic Plan covers essential home appliances, including:

• Dishwasher
• Oven/Range
• Garbage Disposal
• Built-in Microwave
• Trash Compactor
• Ceiling Fans
• Garage Door Opener
• Plumbing Stoppage
• Water Heater
• Heating System
• Electrical System

In addition to household items covered in the Basic Plan, the Premier Plan extends coverage to major systems like:

• Air Conditioning System
• Refrigerator
• Clothes Washer
• Clothes Dryer
• Plumbing System
• Electrical System (enhanced coverage)
• Ductwork
• Garage Door Opener (enhanced coverage)
• Water Heater (enhanced coverage)
• Central Vacuum System

Notably, First American offers unique coverage options, such as protection for improperly installed or maintained items, making it stand out in the market.

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What Does First American Home Warranty Not Cover?

First American Home Warranty, like most home warranty companies, has specific exclusions to its coverage. While the exact exclusions can vary based on the plan and any additional coverage options selected, generally, FAHW does not cover:

1. Pre-existing conditions that were known or should have been known before the coverage began.
2. Items not specifically listed in the coverage plan, including but not limited to non-built-in appliances, secondary appliances, and luxury items.
3. Structural components such as foundations, walls, roofs, windows, and doors.
4. Cosmetic issues or damages that do not affect the functionality of the covered item.
5. Improper maintenance, neglect, or abuse, including failure to clean or perform routine maintenance, or damages caused by pets.
6. Damage due to natural disasters, such as earthquakes, floods, mudslides, and other events beyond normal wear and tear.
7. Commercial-grade appliances or systems, unless specifically covered by an optional add-on.
8. Code violations, permits, and modifications needed to bring the covered item up to current building codes.
9. Certain components of covered systems or appliances, such as filters, knobs, racks, shelves, and removable accessories.
10. Haul away services and disposal fees for replaced appliances or systems.

Pricing

First American Home Warranty pricing structure emphasizes affordability and value, with plans starting around $28 per month for the Basic Plan and $45 per month for the Premier Plan.

Service call fees are competitive, ranging from $75 to $100, depending on the contract specifics. These fees are in line with industry standards and reflect the cost of bringing a qualified technician to your home.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Comprehensive Coverage: First American’s Premier Plan offers an impressive range of coverage, ensuring most major systems and appliances are protected.
• Unique Coverage Options: Coverage for improperly installed or maintained items addresses a common homeowner concern that many competitors overlook.
• Straightforward Claims Process: Homeowners can easily submit claims online or over the phone 24/7, with First American quickly assigning local, vetted contractors to address the issue.

Cons:

• Limited Plan Options: With only two main plans, some homeowners might find the coverage options too broad or not tailored enough to their specific needs.
• Cap on Coverage: The company imposes coverage limits on certain items, which may not fully cover the cost of replacement or repair for more expensive systems or appliances.

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Submitting a Claim

Submitting a claim with First American is streamlined for convenience. Homeowners can either call their 24/7 customer service line or use the online portal to file a claim. First American Home Warranty prides itself on a swift response, typically assigning a contractor within 48 hours. The process is designed to be hassle-free, aiming to resolve issues quickly and efficiently.

States Serviced

First American Home Warranty provides coverage in most states, only excluding Alaska and Hawaii, catering to a wide demographic of homeowners. This broad service range is a significant advantage, making this company’s offerings accessible to a vast audience.

First American vs. Other Home Warranty Companies

When compared to industry leaders like American Home Shield and Choice Home Warranty, First American holds its own with competitive pricing and unique coverage options. However, it’s the inclusion of coverage for improperly installed or maintained items that truly sets First American apart, addressing a gap often found in competitors’ plans. On the downside, the more limited plan selection and coverage caps could be a drawback for some potential customers.

First American Home Warranty Review: Final Thoughts

First American Home Warranty provides solid, reliable home protection plans that cater to a broad range of needs, offering peace of mind to homeowners across the majority of the United States. With its unique coverage options, competitive pricing, and straightforward claim submission process, FAHW represents a valuable option in the home warranty market. However, prospective customers should carefully consider the pros and cons, including plan limitations and coverage caps, to ensure FAHW meets their specific requirements and expectations.