HomeServe Review (May 2024)
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HomeServe USA offers specialized home warranties to customers across the country and provides affordable coverage for systems and emergency home repairs. The company’s unique plan structure allows homeowners to select the exact coverage they need and offers generous coverage caps.
We read more than 100 customer responses for this review across independent review sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Trustpilot, and Google Reviews. We also surveyed 1,000 home warranty customers across the nation. Below, we’ll discuss our findings and analyze its plans, costs, and reputation to help you determine if HomeServe is the best home warranty company for your needs.
Editor’s Note: This review was updated on April 11, 2024, with our latest consumer survey data, competitor comparison details, and added insights from industry experts. All pricing information in this article was gathered from a sample quote for a 2,000-square-foot home in Tempe, Arizona.
Our Take on HomeServe
We like HomeServe’s wide coverage selection, 24/7 customer service availability, and guaranteed repair warranty for up to one year. We recommend HomeServe for homeowners who only need coverage for a few specific items. HomeServe’s reasonable prices, generous coverage caps, lack of service fees, and wide selection of plan options make it one of the most versatile options on the market.
Some highlights include:
- Plans for individual home systems
- No service fee for systems plans
- A team of local, licensed, and insured technicians
What Are the Pros and Cons of HomeServe?
HomeServe stands out thanks to its unique plan structure that allows customers to select the specific coverage they need. However, it doesn’t offer add-on coverage and, despite its availability in all 50 states, it limits coverage in some areas.
How We Rated HomeServe
We rated HomeServe using our detailed review standards based on the criteria homeowners find most important. We scored HomeServe in each category to determine its final star rating of 4.2 out of 5. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of HomeServe’s performance in each of these categories:
- Coverage: We docked HomeServe points in this category due to its lack of add-on options and limited appliance coverage options.
- Value: HomeServe’s reasonable monthly premiums, lack of service call fees, and high coverage caps earned it high points in this category.
- Trustworthiness and transparency: HomeServe lost some points in this category because of its restrictive policies and mixed customer review scores on Trustpilot.
- Availability and service: HomeServe earned full points in this category thanks to its fast response times, smooth claims process, and multiple means of customer communication.
What Plans and Coverage Does HomeServe Offer?
HomeServe is somewhat unique in that it offers up to 18 individual plans with varying levels of coverage. For example, if you need coverage for your home’s interior plumbing, you can pick a plan that covers only that system. The catch is that not all plans are available in all areas, so you’ll have to input your ZIP code on the HomeServe website to determine what plans are available in your area.
HomeServe System Plans
If you only need coverage for one or two systems, consider the following options:
Covers your air conditioner
Cost: $12.99 per month
Coverage cap: $1,750
Exclusions: Air ducts, grills, asbestos coverings, wiring and parts external to the unit, compressors, chillers, condenser casings, and condenser coils.
Covers damage to your home electronics
Cost: $3.99 per month
Coverage cap: $1,000
Exclusions: Sump pumps, HVAC systems, medical equipment, electric vehicles, items less than $100, and antiques
Covers the weatherhead, insulator, riser, meter base, and service entrance conductor
Cost: $5.49 per month
Coverage cap: $5,000
Exclusions: Appliances, transformers, generators, damage or failure due to disconnection or interruption to the main electrical supply, non-utility supplied power and/or lines, meter pedestals, and damage from accidents, misuse, or abuse
Covers clogs or the breakage of your sewer or septic line
Cost: $12.98 per month
Coverage cap: $10,000
Exclusions: Non-conforming drain lines, septic tanks, collection tanks, leaching fields, branch lines, replacement of any artificial grass or plants, restoration to water structures, pastures or wooded areas
Covers age, corrosion, or ground shifting damage to main water lines
Cost: $7.95 per month
Coverage cap: $7,000
Exclusions: Branch lines, frozen lines, tanks or appliances, replacement of any artificial grass or plants, pastures or wooded areas, and damage from accidents
Covers exterior water and septic lines and restoration
Cost: $20.97 per month
Coverage cap: $7,000–$10,000
Exclusions: Branch lines, frozen lines, tanks or appliances, replacement of any artificial grass or plants, pastures or wooded areas, and damage from accidents
Covers interior or exterior leaks due to aging pipes, valves, or fittings
Cost: $6.49 per month
Coverage cap: $8,000
Exclusions: Meter moves, lines not supplied by a utility, meter replacements except when required by local code appliances, fixtures or pressure regulating devices, and restoring floor coverings
Covers air conditioners and heaters
Cost: $19.99 per month
Coverage cap: $10,000
Exclusions: Air ducts, registers, zoning components, air filters, damage from accidents, misuse, or abuse
Covers your furnace and heat pump.
Cost: $12.99 per month
Coverage cap: $1,750
Exclusions: Air ducts, air filters, zoning components and electronics, registers, electronic air cleaners, flues, humidifiers, thermostats, air balancing, and chimneys
Covers wiring, outlets, light switches, and your fuse box
Cost: $11.99 per month
Coverage cap: $2,500
Exclusions: Appliances, knob and tube wiring, service entrance conductors, aluminum or non-standard and non-permanent materials, damage or failure due to disconnection or interruption to the main electrical supply, and damage from accidents, misuse or abuse
Covers leaks, burst pipes, and clogged or blocked drains
Cost: $18.99 per month
Coverage cap: $3,000
Exclusions: Appliances, vent stacks, fittings and fixtures, frozen pipes, pressure-reducing valves, backflow prevention devices, pumps, grinders, non-conforming drain lines, fire suppression and other sprinkler systems
Covers water heater repair and replacement
Cost: $12.99 per month
Coverage cap: $1,500
Exclusions: Jacket and interior doors, exhaust venting, electrical service wiring, heat exchangers, expansion tanks, non-flexible water supply, delivery piping, damage due to restricted lines or water pressure over 80 P.S.I, and damage from misuse or abuse of the system
HomeServe has recently begun offering a single appliance-only plan, called the TotalHome Warranty Appliance Plan. Here’s what’s covered:
- Built-in microwaves
- Clothes dryers
- Clothes washers
- Dishwashers
- Garage door openers
- Kitchen refrigerators
- Stovetops and ovens
- Trash compactors
Five of HomeServe’s plans cover three or more items across multiple systems. Compare all five plans below.
What Do HomeServe’s Combination Plans Cover?
| Covered Item | Home Plumbing and Drainage | Home Comfort | Complete Plumbing | Interior Protection | TotalHome Warranty Combo | Premium Home Protection |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Appliances |
– |
– |
– |
– |
✔ |
– |
|
Interior electrical lines |
– |
– |
– |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
|
Cooling |
– |
✔ |
– |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
|
Heating |
– |
✔ |
– |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
|
Water heater |
– |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
|
Gas line |
– |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
– |
✔ |
|
Interior plumbing and drainage |
✔ |
– |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
|
Water service line |
✔ |
– |
✔ |
– |
– |
✔ |
|
Sewer/Septic line |
✔ |
– |
✔ |
– |
– |
✔ |
|
Exterior electrical lines |
– |
– |
– |
– |
– |
✔ |
The TotalHome Combo Plan also adds coverage for the following items:
- Attic and ceiling fans
- Central vacuum
- Doorbell system
- Ductwork
- Garbage disposal
Optional Add-Ons
HomeServe doesn’t offer add-on coverage.
How Much Does HomeServe Cost?
Plan pricing will vary based on where you live and your home’s size. The general cost of living in your area is another significant determining factor, and if your home is very large—over 5,000 square feet—you may be charged more for a home warranty.
In general, a home warranty costs between $54 and $61. The typical service call fee is between $65 and $125.
Plan Pricing
HomeServe is upfront with its pricing structure. When you enter your ZIP code on the company’s website, you can receive a free estimate for plans in your area without needing to input any more personal information, unlike the quote process for many home warranty providers.
Here are the monthly quotes we received for an average-sized home in Tempe, Arizona:
| Plan Name | Monthly Price |
|---|---|
| Complete Plumbing Plan | $41.99 |
| Home Comfort Plan | $29.99 |
| Home Plumbing and Drainage Plan | $21.98 |
| Interior Protection Plan | $55.99 |
| Premium Home Protection Plan | $69.99 |
| TotalHome Warranty Appliance Plan | $48.33 |
| TotalHome Warranty Combo Plan | $58.33 |
Here’s the monthly cost for coverage on individual items:
- Cooling system: $12.99
- Electrical surge coverage: $3.99
- Exterior electrical line: $5.49
- Exterior pipes: $15.99
- Exterior sewer/septic line: $11.98
- Exterior water service line: $7.95
- Gas line: $4.99
- Heating system: $12.99
- Interior electrical line: $11.99
- Interior plumbing and drainage: $11.99
- Water heater repair and replacement: $7.99
- Water heater repair: $6.99
Note: Coverage for heating and cooling systems is not available in central Florida.
What Is HomeServe’s Service Call Fee?
HomeServe doesn’t charge a service call fee with its system plans. This may be because it’s easier to diagnose and obtain necessary parts for systems. However, any plan that covers appliances, including the TotalHome Appliance and Combo Plan, comes with a $100 service fee. After calling HomeServe and filing a claim, you’ll pay this fee to the technician who comes to your home to diagnose and fix the problem.
What Is HomeServe’s State Availability?
HomeServe is available in all 50 U.S. states, including Washington, D.C. However, not all plans are available in all areas within each state. Because of this, we recommend getting a quote from HomeServe on its website.
HomeServe Reviews From the BBB
HomeServe has an A rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), which is based on the company’s transparent business practices and its handling of customer complaints. HomeServe has also been accredited with the BBB since 2014.
We read more than 100 customer reviews across the BBB, Trustpilot, and Google Reviews. Customers who had a positive experience were pleased with the professional technicians and quality service with quick turnaround times. However, themes in negative reviews indicate inconsistent service technician quality and robocalls.
Below is a sample of positive and negative HomeServe reviews:
Positive Reviews
“I was extremely pleased with the service I received from *** ******* The technicians were polite and professional. My issue was resolved in a matter of minutes. The technician also gave me good advice to try and stop the issue from possibly happening again.” —Sherry R., March 18, 2024, on BBB
“Thank you for a quick and simple experience with your service. The plumbing company sent from your list was very quick and provided a quality experience. (I hired them to install a new HVAC furnace / AC unit. I had to update the gas line; I thought I had all of your products renewed, but it appears that the gas line service was not an option the last time I renewed my yearly subscription. Please send updates about new services and products. Ty” —Randall B., March 17, 2024, on BBB
“I was so grateful for my Home Serve contract! Selling my house; inspection showed a corroded section of galvanized pipe in my crawlspace. Called Home Serve. They promised a contracted plumbing company would call me. They called and within 3 days, came and replaced the corroded section of pipe with new pvc at no cost to me. Excellent turnaround. Good plumbers, quick and efficient.” —Nancy M., March 17, 2024, on BBB
Negative Reviews
“I have been with HomeServe for many years and is not pleased with the service. The service guy they sent did not even check my water heater, he automatically stated I needed a new water heater because it was 20 plus years old. I was stuck with no hot water because then quoted me a cost of $1600.” —Hazel B., March 15, 2024, on BBB
“I recently had a claim that Homeserve took care of. Homeserve sent an email asking for my feedback of the service I received. I indicated I was less than happy with the contractor who performed the work. Now I keep getting phone calls from Homeserve that either hang up on me as soon as I answer the call, or when I answer there is no one on the other end of the call. This is very annoying and if they want to speak with me they need to not robocall me and have someone available to answer when I accept rhe call.” – John M, March 14, 2024, on the BBB.
“I have 3 properties all with HomeServe Water and Sewer line protection. The first calling for service was on 2/8 at approximately 10:30 AM. I was told someone would get back with me to schedule coming out. Even received a text mess on 2/8 @ 10:36 AM and again 2/9 @5:37 PM. Both text said they were looking to find someone to services me. On 2/12 four days after I requested service I went on the app chat and asked why no one had contacted me about my emergency? I guess that prompted a call from a HomeServe contractor. It had been 4 days since I requested service. I was out pocket almost $300 because I had to pay another company to unclog the inside drain. Because of this, I will be looking for a new home warranty service provicer plan. This company is not reliable.” —Sandra A., February 12, 2024, on BBB
HomeServe vs. Competitors
Review some of HomeServe’s top nationwide competitors to see how they compare. All of these companies offer free quotes, so consider requesting a few estimates before making a final decision.
| Company | BBB Rating | Monthly Cost | Service Fee | Visit Site |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B | $42–$82 | $75–$125 | VISIT SITE | |
| NR | $49–$59 | $65–$125 | VISIT SITE | |
| B | $29–$89 | $100–$125 | VISIT SITE | |
| A+ | $44–$58 | $70 | VISIT SITE | |
| B | $35–$94 | $75–$125 | VISIT SITE | |
| B+ | $30–$56 | $100–$150 | VISIT SITE | |
| A | $50–$63 | $0–$100 | Visit Site |
| Star Rating | BBB Rating | Monthly Cost | Service Fee | Response Time | Link | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberty Home Guard |  | NR | $49–$59 | $65–$125 | Up to 48 hours | VISIT SITE | |
| American Home Shield |  | B | $29–$89 | $100–$125 | Up to 48 hours | VISIT SITE | |
| Select Home Warranty |  | B- | $44–$47 | $60–$75 | 48-84 hours | VISIT SITE | |
| First American Home Warranty |  | B | $42–$82 | $75–$125 | 4-48 hours | VISIT SITE | |
| AFC Home Warranty |  | B | $35–$94 | $75–$125 | 24-48 hours | VISIT SITE | |
| Elite Home Warranty |  | A+ | $44–$58 | $70 | Up to 48 hours | VISIT SITE | |
| Cinch Home Services |  | B+ | $30–$56 | $100–$150 | 2-24 hours | VISIT SITE | |
| 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty |  | A | $27–$70 | $65–$100 | Up to 48 hours | VISIT SITE |
| Liberty Home Guard | |
|---|---|
| Logo |
|
| Star Rating | |
| BBB Rating | NR |
| Monthly Cost | $49–$59 |
| Service Fee | $65–$125 |
| Response Time | Up to 48 hours |
| American Home Shield | |
|---|---|
| Logo |
 |
| Star Rating | |
| BBB Rating | B |
| Monthly Cost | $29–$89 |
| Service Fee | $100–$125 |
| Response Time | Up to 48 hours |
| Select Home Warranty | |
|---|---|
| Logo |
|
| Star Rating | |
| BBB Rating | B- |
| Monthly Cost | $44–$47 |
| Service Fee | $60–$75 |
| Response Time | 48-84 hours |
| First American Home Warranty | |
|---|---|
| Logo |
|
| Star Rating | |
| BBB Rating | B |
| Monthly Cost | $42–$82 |
| Service Fee | $75–$125 |
| Response Time | 4-48 hours |
| AFC Home Warranty | |
|---|---|
| Logo |
|
| Star Rating | |
| BBB Rating | B |
| Monthly Cost | $35–$94 |
| Service Fee | $75–$125 |
| Response Time | 24-48 hours |
| Elite Home Warranty | |
|---|---|
| Logo |
|
| Star Rating | |
| BBB Rating | A+ |
| Monthly Cost | $44–$58 |
| Service Fee | $70 |
| Response Time | Up to 48 hours |
| Cinch Home Services | |
|---|---|
| Logo |
|
| Star Rating | |
| BBB Rating | B+ |
| Monthly Cost | $30–$56 |
| Service Fee | $100–$150 |
| Response Time | 2-24 hours |
| 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty | |
|---|---|
| Logo |
|
| Star Rating | |
| BBB Rating | A |
| Monthly Cost | $27–$70 |
| Service Fee | $65–$100 |
| Response Time | Up to 48 hours |
Note: BBB ratings are accurate as of April 2024.
Note: We based the pricing information in this table and throughout the article on sample quotes we obtained for a 2,115-square-foot, single-family home in Tempe, Arizona. Your pricing may vary depending on your home’s location, size, type, and plan selections.
Home Warranty Cost Calculator
We created a calculator to break down the estimated annual cost of owning a home warranty.
Use the following steps to calculate your projected annual cost:
- Enter your monthly premium
- Enter your service call fee
- Enter your estimated number of claims
It’s best to request a quote directly from one of our recommended providers, as annual costs and service fees vary between them.
Use the table below to compare your calculated cost to repair and replacement costs for common appliances.
| Appliance | Average Repair Cost | Average Replacement Cost |
|---|---|---|
|
Dehumidifier |
$50–$200 |
$1,300–$2,800 |
|
Microwave |
$50–$400 |
$60–$2,000 |
|
Dishwasher |
$50–$500 |
$400–$3,000 |
|
Exhaust Fans |
$16–$300 |
$250–$950 |
|
Electric Range |
$100–$500 |
$230–$3,000 |
|
Gas Range |
$100–$500 |
$230–$3,000 |
|
Dryer |
$100–$400 |
$450–$2,300 |
|
Oven |
$100–$430 |
$400–$3,000 |
|
Washer |
$50–$450 |
$400–$2,300 |
|
Freezer |
$90–$500 |
$160–$2,900 |
|
Refrigerator |
$40–$350 |
$200–$5,000 |
Life span and repair cost data sourced from InterNACHI and Home Depot
What’s Our Verdict on HomeServe?
If you want to cover specific home systems, HomeServe may be a good option as it allows you to cover individual items instead of multiple items in one plan. Additionally, HomeServe doesn’t charge a service call fee with its systems plans, making it an affordable choice if you anticipate needing to file a lot of claims.
However, HomeServe may not be right for every homeowner. For example, if you’re looking for comprehensive coverage for as many systems and appliances as possible, you’re better off considering other providers such as American Home Shield. This home warranty company covers major systems and appliances, including your refrigerator, dishwasher, and air conditioning, and covers damage resulting from insufficient maintenance, improper repairs, and unknown preexisting conditions.
FAQ About HomeServe
Do HomeServe plans cover air conditioners?
Yes, several of HomeServe’s warranty plans cover cooling systems. You can purchase this coverage separately or as part of a combination plan. HomeServe plans also include up to $1,500 worth of repairs or replacement parts to capacitors, condensers, fan controls, and most other internal parts of your A.C. unit. Coverage also includes up to one pound of refrigerant, excluding maintenance recharges.
How much does HomeServe cost per month?
HomeServe’s plans vary widely in price, ranging from $3.99 per month to $69.99 per month. HomeServe is one of the few home warranty companies that allows you to pay for coverage for individual items or small groups of home systems.
Is there a waiting period before my HomeServe coverage begins?
HomeServe has a 30-day waiting period before coverage can begin. This waiting period falls in line with the industry average. If you decide you don’t want to keep your home warranty within those 30 days, HomeServe will refund the entire price of your warranty.
How do I file a claim with HomeServe?
When a covered item breaks, you can call the HomeServe repair hotline at 1-866-549-4877 to file a claim 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you need to file a claim after business hours, you’ll likely have to wait until the next business day before a HomeServe representative can dispatch a technician to your home.
What types of damage does a home warranty cover?
All home warranties cover breakdowns on systems and appliances that fail due to normal wear and tear. If a covered item stops working over the course of normal use, your home warranty provider will pay to repair or replace it. Some companies, such as American Home Shield, cover unknown preexisting conditions, but most don’t. The following conditions are typically not covered under a home warranty:
- Accidental damage
- Neglect or insufficient maintenance
- Improper repairs or modifications
- Code upgrades
- Unusual circumstances often covered by homeowners insurance, such as natural disasters, fire, and theft
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.
