While traditional home, landlord or rental property insurance covers things like the home dwelling and liability, a home warranty offers coverage for things like standard wear and tear to home appliances. Choice Home Warranty is a crowd-favorite provider of home warranties.
They’ll connect you with pre-screened local technicians with their 24 hours a day, 7 days a week home warranty service.
Choice Home Warranty’s plans offer coverage for appropriately maintained appliances no matter their age. The upgrade plan covers refrigerators and washing machines. Once you sign up, there is a 30 day waiting period before coverage begins. You’ll be protected for 365 days from the date your policy is active.
- 24/7 warranty service
- Guarantees all repairs for 90 days, longer than the industry average
- The upgrade plan covers refrigerators and washing machines
- Charges a fee per service call
Overview of Home Warranties
A home warranty is a service contract specifically designed to provide coverage for the repair or replacement of a home's major systems and appliances when they break down due to normal wear and tear. It operates distinctly from homeowners insurance, which primarily protects against unforeseen catastrophic events such as fire, theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. Instead, a home warranty focuses on addressing the mechanical or electrical failures that inevitably occur over time with a home's operational components.
These contracts typically involve an annual or monthly fee paid by the homeowner, similar to an insurance premium. In addition to this regular fee, a per-claim service call charge is usually applied each time a covered repair or replacement is initiated. This service fee helps to offset the cost of the technician's visit and diagnosis.
Among the numerous providers in the market, CHW stands out as one of the prominent national home warranty providers. They offer their services to homeowners across a vast geographical area, specifically operating in 49 states within the United States, as well as in Washington, D.C. This extensive coverage allows a wide range of homeowners to access their protective services, providing peace of mind against the often-unexpected and costly repairs of essential household systems and appliances.
Choice Home Warranty’s Coverage Plans
Choice Home Warranty offers two primary plans: Basic and Total. The Basic plan covers essential systems and certain kitchen appliances, while the Total plan includes all Basic components plus additional items like air conditioning, refrigerators, washers, and dryers. Optional add-ons can further extend coverage to items such as pool and spa equipment, septic systems, sump pumps, central vacuum systems, and even second refrigerators or standalone freezers. This flexibility allows homeowners to customize policies based on their unique needs.
The Basic plan typically costs between $45 and $50 per month, or roughly $560–$600 annually. The Total plan falls around $55–$60 per month, translating to $660–$720 per year. These rates include coverage for covered failures and do not include the per-claim service fee, which is commonly set at $100. These prices vary slightly depending on state and local conditions but remain within a competitive range among major home warranty providers. CHW also periodically offers promotions such as a free first month when paying the annual premium upfront.
Financial Caps and Policy Details
Choice Home Warranty sets default coverage caps at $3,000 per covered item or system. This limit applies to systems like HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and individual appliances. For add-ons such as roof leak coverage, the cap is typically lower, around $500 per incident. Higher caps help differentiate CHW from many competitors, whose per-item limits may fall between $1,000 and $2,000.
Another key feature is a 60-day guarantee on repair work performed by CHW-authorized service technicians. If the same issue recurs within this period, CHW will dispatch a technician again without an additional service fee. This compares favorably against many competitors, which often offer only a 30-day warranty.
Policyholders are also covered for up to $500 in wall repair if the technician has to access concealed components behind walls or cabinets to complete the repair. If homeowners elect not to pay for the wall repair, CHW typically deducts up to $200 from the service limit to account for the damage. This is beneficial, as repairing drywall and cabinetry can sometimes exceed $300, especially in older homes.
Contract Terms and Exclusions
Like most home warranty plans, CHW includes a waiting period (commonly 30 days) before coverage begins. This ensures homeowners can’t take out a policy immediately before a known failure or breakdown. Coverage is strictly limited to issues caused by normal wear and tear, meaning improper installation, preexisting conditions, negligence, or code violations are typically excluded.
Policyholders should be aware of a range of standard exclusions. These often include filter maintenance (like AC filters), cosmetic defects (scratches or dents), improper installation, cosmetic parts of appliances (e.g., refrigerator shelves), environmental damage (e.g., rust, mildew), improper usage or setting adjustments, and failures covered under manufacturer warranties.
Filing a Claim and Service Experience
Claims can be submitted via phone or through CHW’s online portal. Once the waiting period has passed, homeowners pay a $100 service call fee when the technician arrives. CHW often aims to book same-day or next-day service and typically responds to claim calls quickly—many reviewers say contact is established within four hours.
After receiving a claim, CHW dispatches a local, licensed technician to diagnose the problem. Homeowners do not select their own technician unless CHW cannot find a contractor in the area. The technician determines whether to repair or replace the item based on severity and cost-effectiveness. If repaired, the technician works within the scope of the terms and coverage limits. If it needs replacement, the technician or a designated contractor will handle removal and installation, subject to cap limits.
While many customers report satisfactory outcomes, some homeowners have noted issues: delays in service, denials based on interpretations of coverage limits, high service fees, and difficulty obtaining coverage for unusual component failures. There are also reports of disputes over whether the issue is wear and tear versus improper maintenance or preexisting damage.
Pros of Choice Home Warranty
- Competitive pricing compared to industry peers
- High $3,000 coverage cap per item
- 60-day workmanship guarantee
- Wall repair coverage included
- No inspection requirement
- Optional add-ons for pools, septic systems, and more
- Available in 49 states and D.C.
Cons of Choice Home Warranty
- Customer service experiences vary
- Claim denials tied to exclusions
- No choice of technician
- Some service delays in rural areas
- $100 service call fee per claim
Common Misconceptions About Home Warranties
Many homeowners mistakenly believe that a home warranty is the same as homeowners insurance. While both offer protection, they cover different types of risk. Homeowners insurance typically handles structural damage from fire, theft, or natural disasters. A home warranty, on the other hand, protects systems and appliances from mechanical failures due to age and wear and tear.
Another common misconception is that a home warranty covers everything in the home. In reality, all plans have exclusions, limits, and caps. For instance, cosmetic damage, routine maintenance, and damage from misuse are generally not included. Understanding this distinction is critical for setting realistic expectations.
Some homeowners also believe that using a home warranty means never having to pay out of pocket. While a warranty can significantly reduce repair and replacement costs, policyholders are still responsible for service fees, maintenance tasks, and any expenses beyond policy caps or exclusions.
How Choice Home Warranty Compares in Specific States
Choice Home Warranty operates in nearly every U.S. state, with certain regional variations in coverage and contractor availability. In Texas, for example, CHW competes heavily with local providers offering HVAC-heavy packages due to the state’s climate. Texas customers have noted CHW’s fast turnaround on air conditioning repairs and strong technician network, though high demand in summer can sometimes lead to delays.
In California, where earthquakes and regulatory environments can complicate repairs, CHW is valued for its broad system coverage but may face criticism for not covering certain items affected by environmental hazards. Californians tend to appreciate CHW’s appliance protection in urban areas where repairs can be more expensive.
States with harsher winters like Illinois and New York benefit from the heating system coverage under both CHW plans. However, availability of contractors in more rural areas may vary, impacting service times. Across the board, CHW tends to perform best in suburban and urban settings where vetted contractors are more accessible.
Understanding Choice Home Warranty’s Contractor Network
One of the most important yet overlooked aspects of any home warranty provider is the network of service technicians and contractors. Choice Home Warranty utilizes a pre-screened network of licensed professionals to respond to customer claims. These contractors are evaluated based on their licensing, customer service skills, response time, and experience with common household systems and appliances.
For homeowners, this means peace of mind knowing that repairs are performed by qualified technicians who have been vetted by CHW. However, the quality of service can vary based on geographic location. Urban and suburban areas tend to have a higher density of available contractors, leading to faster service and a broader range of specialists. In rural areas, contractor availability may be more limited, potentially extending response times or requiring outside approval for third-party service providers.
To maintain consistency in quality, CHW also tracks customer feedback on each service visit. Technicians with repeated complaints or poor performance scores may be removed from the network. This internal quality control helps ensure long-term service reliability and is part of the reason CHW maintains a large repeat-customer base.
The Role of Choice Home Warranties in Real Estate Transactions
Home warranties, including those offered by Choice Home Warranty, play a crucial role in real estate transactions. Sellers often purchase a home warranty plan to protect their property during the listing period and offer it as a value-add to potential buyers. This can boost buyer confidence by reducing concerns about hidden repair costs, especially in older homes.
For buyers, a home warranty acts as a financial buffer during the critical first year of ownership. This is particularly beneficial for new homeowners who may be unfamiliar with the home's maintenance history or condition of its appliances and systems. Knowing that a policy is in place to handle major breakdowns allows buyers to settle in with less stress.
Choice Home Warranty allows for the seamless transfer of policies between buyers and sellers, making the process hassle-free. Real estate agents also frequently recommend CHW to clients as a way to protect their investment and reduce friction during the negotiation process.
Seasonal Maintenance and Timing of Coverage
One often-underappreciated strategy for maximizing the value of a home warranty is aligning coverage with seasonal maintenance schedules. For instance, heating systems are most likely to fail in the winter months, while air conditioning systems often break down during peak summer usage. By activating or renewing a Choice Home Warranty plan ahead of these periods, homeowners can avoid gaps in protection when systems are under the most strain.
Choice Home Warranty also provides optional reminders and service tips for basic seasonal maintenance. These include changing air filters, cleaning condenser coils, inspecting water heaters, and draining sediment buildup. Following these tips not only helps prevent breakdowns but also strengthens your claim in case a covered item fails—CHW is more likely to approve claims on well-maintained systems.
This alignment is especially useful for landlords or property managers who need to keep rental units functional year-round. CHW offers multi-property plans that allow for consistent coverage and consolidated billing, ideal for those managing several homes across different regions.
The Financial Psychology of Choice Home Warranty Ownership
From a budgeting standpoint, owning a Choice Home Warranty plan introduces a fixed-cost structure to otherwise unpredictable repair expenses. Homeownership is rife with hidden costs, and the psychological benefit of knowing that a major breakdown won’t derail your finances is one of the most valuable features of a home warranty.
For example, replacing a furnace could cost over $4,000 without coverage, while CHW’s service call fee remains around $100, with coverage limits helping to absorb the rest. Similarly, a refrigerator compressor repair might cost $600–$800 out of pocket, but would be largely or fully covered under CHW’s Total Plan.
This risk-reduction model appeals especially to young families, retirees on fixed incomes, and first-time homeowners. Rather than worrying about “what ifs,” they can budget a known monthly premium and gain access to 24/7 service response when problems occur.
Additionally, because CHW allows policyholders to add or drop coverage each renewal period, homeowners can recalibrate their coverage based on recent repairs or appliance upgrades. If you recently installed a new HVAC system with a manufacturer warranty, you may choose to scale back. If your water heater is approaching ten years old, it may be time to increase protection levels.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there a waiting period after I purchase a plan?
Yes, CHW has a 30-day waiting period before coverage begins.
Can I choose my own technician?
Only if CHW doesn’t have one in your area and approves your contractor in advance.
What happens if something can't be repaired?
CHW may replace the item, subject to coverage caps.
Are preexisting conditions covered?
No, CHW excludes known or preexisting problems.
Can I transfer the warranty if I sell my home?
Yes, CHW allows policy transfers during real estate transactions.
What does the service call fee cover?
It covers the visit and diagnosis, even if no repair is made.
Is Choice Home Warranty the Right Choice?
Choice Home Warranty stands out as a robust and trustworthy choice for homeowners seeking to mitigate the financial burden of unexpected repairs to crucial home systems and appliances. Its appeal is rooted in several key factors, making it a competitive and attractive option in the home warranty market.
One of the most compelling aspects of Choice Home Warranty is its competitive pricing structure. In an industry where costs can vary significantly, CHW strives to offer plans that are both comprehensive and affordable, making home warranty protection accessible to a broader range of homeowners. This commitment to value ensures that customers can manage their budgets more effectively, avoiding the potentially crippling expenses of major system or appliance failures.
Beyond pricing, CHW boasts a remarkably wide geographic reach. This extensive coverage area means that homeowners across a significant portion of the United States can benefit from its services, providing a consistent and reliable option regardless of location. This broad availability simplifies the process for many, as they can confidently consider CHW knowing it likely serves their area.
Furthermore, Choice Home Warranty offers an extended workmanship guarantee, a significant differentiator that underscores its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. This guarantee provides homeowners with additional peace of mind, knowing that the repairs performed by CH CHW's network of technicians are backed by a long-term assurance. This reduces concerns about recurring issues and emphasizes the company's confidence in its service providers.
However, as with any financial product or service, it is paramount for homeowners to delve into the details by carefully reading the fine print of their chosen plan. A thorough understanding of the terms and conditions, including coverage limits, exclusions, service fees, and claim procedures, is absolutely essential. This proactive approach helps to set realistic expectations and prevents any unwelcome surprises should a repair be needed. Understanding how coverage works in specific scenarios, such as the age of appliances, pre-existing conditions, or specific component limitations, empowers homeowners to make informed decisions and navigate the claims process smoothly.
