AMERICAN HOME SHIELD REVIEWS, PLANS, COST AND COVERAGE - 2021
American Home Shield has been one of the longstanding companies in the sector, with over 40 years of experience under its belt. With its presence in over 49 states and over 15,000 contractors, AHS Home Warranty has established its deep-rooted presence across the country. The company has carved a reputation for itself as a reliable option by paying over $2 billion in claims just from 2013.
What we love
- Nationwide coverage
- Customizable home warranty plans
- Asurion Electronics Plan
What could be improved
- Coverage in Alaska
- Range of add-on devices
Premium
$299 - $500+
Deductible
$75 - $125
Coverage Limits
$1.5K to $3K
Active States
49
Complaint Resolution Program
Yes
$3,000
Estimated Appliance Coverage$1,500
Estimated System Coverage49
No. Of Active StatesYes
Complaint Resolution ProgramWhy American Home Shield Warranty?
- American Home Shield is the pioneer of the home warranty sector
- Contractor network of 15,000 licensed professionals
- Average deductible for a contract is $85.15
- The policy takes effect within 30 Days
- The coverage limit of $1.5K to $3K for covered items
- Participates in our Complaint Resolution Program
- Minimum contract length offered is 12 Months
HOW AMERICAN HOME SHIELD WARRANTY WORKS?
American Home Shield plans are suitable for homeowners, real estate professionals, home sellers, and buyers alike. Purchasing a home warranty plan can be very beneficial after the expiry of the original manufacturer's warranty or if you live in an older home.
American Home Shield provides discounted repairs and replacements for home systems and appliances that break down due to natural wear and tear. An American Home Shield warranty can come at a few hundred dollars while out-of-pocket repairs can cost thousands of dollars and drain your savings.
You can choose a plan from the list given below based on what appliances and systems you want to be covered. Get a free quote now to explore the plans offered by AHS in depth. Note that American Home Shield's plans protect your home for one year unless you want extended coverage for longer durations, in which case AHS does sell longer-term contracts.
American Home Shield pricing offers flexibility in choosing a deductible at $75, $100, or $125. The higher the deductible chosen, the lower the premium would be.
American Home Shield Plans
American Home Shield warranties are sought after due to the quick service turnaround time. AHS home warranty plans cover a range of home systems and appliances. Customers can choose plans as per their needs. AHS offers the following four plans:
- Appliances Plan: Covers 10 appliances important for running your life smoothly
- Systems Plan: Covers 11 major systems in your home along with smoke detectors, garbage disposal, water dispenser, etc.
- Combo Plan: Covers over 11 systems and 10 appliances
- Build Your Own Plan: Covers 10 systems and appliances of your choice
Any of these optional add-on items can be included in any of the plans for an additional cost. However, electronics extended warranties and HVAC tune-ups are offered only in selective states.
AHS Add-on coverage: Items like electronic extended warranty, pools and spas, well pump, septic pump, guest unit, and HVAC tune-ups are included in the list of add-ons. AHS now offers Electronics Warranty with Asurion Services.
You can go through the various plans offered by AHS, and check the extent of coverage for each of the appliances and systems. You can request for a free quote to check the estimated prices.
The American Home Shield Reviews will tell you about how the coverage has worked out for other customers. The Combo Plan is the most popular among the options with over 70% consumers choosing it (as claimed by American Home Shield). We recommend the Build-Your-Own Plan for homeowners who have a mix of old and mid-age appliances and systems.
AMERICAN HOME SHIELD PRICES & COVERAGE
American Home Shield pricing is flexible, varying as per the deductible you have chosen ($75, $100, $125). A basic AHS plan starts at around $299 per year and can go up to $600+ for advanced coverage that includes optional items. Monthly costs can range from approximately $39.99 per month and can range up to $60, depending on the plan selected. Get a free quote for an accurate price estimate in your area.
- Refrigerator
- Oven / Range / Stove / Cooktop
- Washers
- Dryers
- Dishwasher
- Built-in Microwave Oven
- Trash Compactor
- Freestanding Ice Maker
- Garage Door Opener
- Built-in Food Center
- Air Conditioning and Ductwork
- Heating and Ductwork
- Electrical
- Doorbells
- Smoke Detectors
- Ceiling Fans
- Plumbing (including stoppages)
- Water Heater
- Garbage Disposal
- Instant Hot/Cold Water Dispenser
- Central Vacuum
- Rekey
- Refrigerator
- Oven / Range / Stove / Cooktop
- Washers
- Dryers
- Dishwasher
- Built-in Microwave Oven
- Trash Compactor
- Freestanding Ice Maker
- Garage Door Opener
- Built-in Food Center
- Air Conditioning and Ductwork
- Heating and Ductwork
- Electrical
- Doorbells
- Smoke Detectors
- Ceiling Fans
- Plumbing (including stoppages)
- Water Heater
- Garbage Disposal
- Instant Hot/Cold Water Dispenser
- Central Vacuum
- Rekey
- Pool and Spa
- Well Pump
- Septic Pump
- Guest Unit
- Electronic Extended Warranty
- HVAC Tune-Up
- Sewer Ejector Pumps
American Home Shield Claims & Customer Service
Customers can file claims through the American Home Shield website or phone number. As the largest home warranty company, AHS warranty customer service has paid out claims worth $2 billion since 2013.
To file a claim with AHS, follow the below-mentioned steps:
- Call the AHS helpline number to schedule a service visit or submit a claim online
- You are required to pay a service call fee for the service visit. This amount is fixed in your contract
- A contractor would be assigned to visit you at the earliest
When you put in a service request to AHS, they take the details and first verify whether the broken-down item is covered. Thereafter, they send a repair contractor to diagnose the problem. If the problem happens to be an inclusion in your contract, the contractor gives an estimate to AHS of the amount they will payout.
AHS may then directly pay the contractor or refund the amount to you if, for some reason, that is the course of action chosen. You will only have to pay a trade service fee or deductible, out of pocket, as agreed upon.
The advantage of choosing a service like American Home Shield is that one flat service visit fee covers all costs associated with the visit's purpose and repeat visits for the same reason. If you were to hire a contractor who finds an issue taking longer than expected, you would have to pay them extra. Regardless of the complexity of repair, the company's cost will be borne up to the ceiling coverage limit.
Many customers report that American Home Shield lives up to its reputation by ensuring satisfactory customer service. They offer 24/7 customer support and have a vast network of over 15,000 service contractors. Their service technicians generally receive positive reviews for promptly keeping up with the appointments and attending emergencies on short notice.
WHAT ARE THE EXCLUSIONS AND LIMITS OF AMERICAN HOME SHIELD CONTRACTS?
Reading the Contract Agreement to know what is covered and the limitations, exclusions, and provisions are of paramount importance. Coverage includes the wear and tear malfunctions during a contract term unless there was improper maintenance, rust, or corrosion.
AHS home warranty plans are only for single-family homes, new construction homes, condominiums, townhomes, or mobile homes that are under 5,000 square feet unless an alternative dwelling type is applied for and the appropriate fee is paid. Coverage is only provided for owned or rental residential property and not for commercial property or premises converted into a business.
Domestic or commercial grade items should be specified by the manufacturer for use in the residential application. AHS has the sole right to determine whether or not covered items will be repaired or replaced.
When it comes to replacements, AHS is responsible for replacement equipment and parts of similar features, efficiency, and capacity but not matching color, brand, and dimensions.
AHS would also agree to offer cash in lieu of repair and replacement services. AHS will not provide repair and replacement services but will pay an amount equal to the contract dollar limit minus the cost incurred to diagnose the malfunction. You’ll have to show acceptable proof of the actual itemized costs to AHS before reimbursement payout. AHS would not pay for replacements or repairs covered by the distributor, builder, manufacturer, or extended warranty.
American Home Shield (AHS) for Realtors
American Home Shield home warranty has three home warranty plans exclusively for realtors. They have been designed to protect new homeowners from unexpected repair costs after real estate transactions. The plan offers affordable coverage for a wide range of home systems and appliances. They come at affordable prices.
AHS Home Warranty Plans for Real Estate Agents
- ShieldEssential: Coverage for appliances and systems that are costly and most expensive to repair and replace
- ShieldPlus: Covers components and parts of most home systems and appliances as well
- ShieldComplete: Covers all the items under ShieldEssential and ShieldPlus plans along with some other common, ancillary home items
AHS also dedicates a section of its website for realtors where agents can browse through their American Home Shield affiliate program. There are several articles and guides explaining how selling a home along with a home service contract is beneficial to both realtors and their customers. The company also has a dashboard where realtors can submit claims and communicate with the company representatives easily.
American Home Shield FAQs
When should I buy AHS Home Warranty?
Buying AHS Home warranty is a good idea for those with homes older than 4 years, especially after the expiry of the original warranties on home systems and appliances. Sellers and home buyers of old properties wanting to place their homes on the market can also benefit from home warranty coverage since such homes sell faster. If you have many older systems and appliances, it can save money to cover frequent breakdowns due to age and wear.
Do I need an American Home Shield home warranty if I have homeowners insurance?
An American Home Shield warranty plan is not the same as homeowners insurance. Homeowners insurance provides liability coverage in the event of damages or losses due to floods, fires, disasters, etc. On the other hand, the home warranty plan can be considered as home repair insurance which provides for discounted repairs and replacements of home systems and appliances. An American Home Shield insurance is not homeowners' insurance per se but a home warranty plan which is legally separate. It can run complementary to your actual home insurance.
Is a home inspection required before a home warranty purchase?
American Home Shield does not make a home inspection mandatory for the purchase of home warranty plans. However, if your home systems and appliances are ancient, getting a home inspection to prove that there are no pre-existing conditions will significantly improve your claims' chances of being successful. As homeowners' plans do not cover damage due to rust and corrosion, a prior home inspection will also help.
Does American Home Shield have a waiting period?
There is a 30 day waiting period after the purchase of your home warranty plan to ensure that the claims are due to natural wear and tear and not due to pre-existing damage. It ensures that homeowners are not buying a home warranty for already broken-down appliances. The waiting period will not apply to real estate plans.
My home appliances are old. Will they even be covered?
American Home Shield provides coverage to home systems and appliances via its home warranty plans, regardless of the age make and model of home appliances. As long as your systems and appliances do not have pre-existing conditions that make them prone to breaking down and fulfill certain conditions mentioned in the home warranty contract, your home appliances will not be denied coverage merely for being old.
Is there a limit on the number of service calls or repairs I get?
You can make an unlimited number of service calls to American Home Shield during your contract term. You can also request any number of repairs, but you will have to pay a deductible for each service visit for separate issues. However, the number of repairs will be subject to the upper limit on dollar repair liability amounts, as mentioned in your contract.
Will the contractor come back to rectify an issue that wasn't fixed?
Yes. American Home Shield provides a 30-day workmanship guarantee on work done by their repair contractors. You won't have to pay a trade service fee again.
What if my covered item is not repairable?
If your covered item is not repairable, AHS may replace it or pay cash in lieu of the replacement. The American Home Shield cash-out option will be equivalent to the value of the same make, model, or specs of your item. If the damage itself is excluded as per the contract, you may have to get it repaired outside.
Does American Home Shield provide a cash out option?
American Home Shield cash out option may be available under some circumstances. They may agree to pay cash instead of providing replacement for systems and appliances subject to the dollar limits of maximum liability according to your contract. You may also have to provide proof of actual itemized costs incurred. AHS may provide a cash out option if a covered item is not repairable but a replacement item can also not be found. Also in cases where the item may not be compliant with codes or regulations following a response or if the service cost will exceed the dollar limit of contract liability.
Does AHS cover roofs?
No, AHS does not provide roof coverage. However, you can opt for top tier companies like Choice Home Warranty and Select Home Warranty to provide roof coverage.
Does American Home Shield cover plumbing?
Yes, American Home Shield has plumbing system coverage. Some inclusions are: Water, drain, gas, waste or vent line leaks and breaks; Faucets; Built-in bathtub whirlpool motor, pump, and air switch assemblies; Clearing stoppages; Shower heads, shower arms, valves; toilet mechanisms, etc.
Does American Home Shield cover pest control?
While AHS does not have its own pest control service, the corporation that owns them also owns Terminix, a reputed pest control service provider.
What appliances or systems are excluded from an AHS home warranty?
AHS would cover all the appliances and home systems mentioned in your home warranty contract. Within each system or appliance is mentioned a list of exclusions. Anything not specifically mentioned can be considered as excluded.
Does American Home Shield cover pre-existing conditions?
American Home shield covers malfunctions due to undetectable pre-existing conditions. They are defects or mechanical failures that could not have been detected by a visual inspection or a simple mechanical test. A covered item is visually inspected to verify its structural integrity and that there is no sign to hint at inoperability. In a mechanical test, the item, when turned on, should operate without visible damage, irregular sounds, smoke, or other abnormal outcomes.
How to cancel an American Home Shield contract?
You need to call 888.682.1043 to cancel your American Home Shield contract as you cannot cancel it online. If you're canceling it within 30 days of signing up for the contract and have not made a service call request, you will get a full refund. If you cancel your policy after 30 days, you will receive a refund for the remaining term minus the administrative fees and the charges for any services or claims made.
People are also interested in
AMERICAN HOME SHIELD REVIEWS
Kim Thorpe, Matthews, NC
On Apr 18, 2021
AHS kept their promise with resolving my air condition issue. They were thorough with detecting the problem, they ordered the parts needed. When the parts came in they scheduled the install appointment. They were on time and the install though it wasn't easy the tech got it done!
HelpfulCP, Las Vegas, NV
On Apr 16, 2021
AHS service call fee is overpriced. Considering it’s done all through an application, their service does not come into play. Garage company referred was good. The ratings below are for them NOT AHS.
HelpfulKappy Reck, Marietta, GA
On Apr 16, 2021
We were assigned one contractor and after a week of trying to set an appointment with him, I called AHS to get a 2nd contractor. They verified the first one was having health issues and switched us over to a 2nd contractor during a phone call. the 2nd contractor had a virtual call with me 2 days later and about 6 days later our dryer finally got repaired!
HelpfulOn Apr 19, 2021
The company has responded to the customer through the CRP system.
O Dimina , Mims, FL
On Apr 10, 2021
I was glad I had Home Shield. I needed all the locks changed in my new home. I placed my order online and they sent me a great, friendly professional locksmith who changed all the locks to one key. He explained what he was doing before he did anything and to have all doors properly secured. I paid my service fee and he came out the next day to my home. I had a great experience and for me it was totally w ..Read Full Review
I was glad I had Home Shield. I needed all the locks changed in my new home. I placed my order online and they sent me a great, friendly professional locksmith who changed all the locks to one key. He explained what he was doing before he did anything and to have all doors properly secured. I paid my service fee and he came out the next day to my home. I had a great experience and for me it was totally worth it. I have peace of mind and only one single key for all the locks in my house! Thank you all very much! ..View less
HelpfulOn Apr 15, 2021
The company has responded to the customer through the CRP system.
Rebecca , Sand Springs, OK
On Apr 09, 2021
Our electricity was flickering and we had some outlets that weren’t working. Our heater also quit working around the same time. AHS got us both an electrician & an HVAC technician. Both companies did great! They took the time needed to fix every issue and everything has been working fine since.
HelpfulOn Apr 15, 2021
The company has responded to the customer through the CRP system.
Sam, Pearl River, LA
On Apr 08, 2021
I called to have my AC units inspected and one to get fixed. Costumer service has me set up within minutes of my call. The contractor called me within a few hours to set a date and time to inspect my units. The next morning they were at my home. Within 1 hour they had my broken unit fixed and service the second unit. Very pleased with them!!! That’s the way to do it with AHS. No messing around and ..Read Full Review
I called to have my AC units inspected and one to get fixed. Costumer service has me set up within minutes of my call. The contractor called me within a few hours to set a date and time to inspect my units. The next morning they were at my home. Within 1 hour they had my broken unit fixed and service the second unit. Very pleased with them!!! That’s the way to do it with AHS. No messing around and quality technicians. ..View less
HelpfulOn Apr 15, 2021
The company has responded to the customer through the CRP system.
Luther Roehrs, Phoenix, AZ
On Apr 08, 2021
American Home Shield was quick to assign my claim to a local plumber and the communication process was great as to who was being contacted and then notifications when the plumbers were on their way. The only complaint is that when a water heater is being replaced the warranty only covers the unit and not the other required parts to install a new water heater
HelpfulOn Apr 15, 2021
The company has responded to the customer through the CRP system.
Floyd A Olanio , Saint Cloud, FL
On Apr 08, 2021
Great value for the money. However, AHW doesn't pay enough towards the cost of the Freon. My copay for my AC repair was over $600
HelpfulOn Apr 13, 2021
The company has responded to the customer through the CRP system.
Glenda Rhodeman, Greenville, SC
On Apr 08, 2021
It seems as though my problems came about at almost the same time. But when I contacted AHS, and submitted a service request I received immediate response. When one service provider couldn't schedule me immediately, I reached out to AHS and the Customer Rep I spoke to quickly rescheduled me with another service provider and they came out the next day. My problem was an easy fix, but the technician too ..Read Full Review
It seems as though my problems came about at almost the same time. But when I contacted AHS, and submitted a service request I received immediate response. When one service provider couldn't schedule me immediately, I reached out to AHS and the Customer Rep I spoke to quickly rescheduled me with another service provider and they came out the next day. My problem was an easy fix, but the technician took the time to explain exactly what the situation was and how he corrected it. ..View less
HelpfulOn Apr 08, 2021
The company has responded to the customer through the CRP system.
Amanda, Billings, MT
On Apr 07, 2021
Great work! Friendly and efficient. AHS stands behind their promise and I appreciated their efforts to get my furnace working again! From the service request to service date was acceptable and I would recommend AHS to all homeowners!!!
HelpfulOn Apr 08, 2021
The company has responded to the customer through the CRP system.
Genevieve Sherry, Kempner, TX
On Apr 04, 2021
Am glad I got American Home Shield. I had to use them twice in the same month due to power outage. My furnace and outside pipe faucet. The company they set out was good and efficient. Thanks American Home Shield.
HelpfulOn Apr 05, 2021
The company has responded to the customer through the CRP system.
Ken and Lyra Schramm, Menlo Park, CA
On Apr 02, 2021
Gotta say that I'm very pleasantly surprised. My real estate agent convinced me to get a warranty from American Home Shield... wow glad I listened. Within the first three weeks of moving in 1) the upstairs heater would not work AND the downstairs main furnace PGE forgot to light... so let's just say the first night was rather cold, but the second night, AHS scheduled service and had no issues since. 2nd ..Read Full Review
Gotta say that I'm very pleasantly surprised. My real estate agent convinced me to get a warranty from American Home Shield... wow glad I listened. Within the first three weeks of moving in 1) the upstairs heater would not work AND the downstairs main furnace PGE forgot to light... so let's just say the first night was rather cold, but the second night, AHS scheduled service and had no issues since. 2nd garage electricity went out and rather embarrassed that it was serviced by a simple flick of a hidden GFI switch. 3rd sewer blowout draining into my backyard... serviced with a big snake to root out the problem. 4th rekeying that comes with signing up quick and easy. Let's just say I'm a fan thus far! ..View less
HelpfulOn Apr 05, 2021
The company has responded to the customer through the CRP system.
Stephen Kramer, Charlotte, NC
On Mar 31, 2021
Our washer broke and the company that was sent was knowledgeable and professional and we received an email from AHS 3 days later. We did not know how to order our new machine via email so we called the company. The woman that helped us was terrific and we had our new washer 2 days later. AHS is wonderful!
HelpfulOn Apr 01, 2021
The company has responded to the customer through the CRP system.
Mike Cochran, Fort Mohave, AZ
On Mar 29, 2021
Recently made a claim because my water heater was leaking from the base. Called and made the claim on a Saturday afternoon, and later that same day, a plumber was at our house and determined that yes, the water heater needed to be replaced; how great was that service, right? However, substantial improvements needed to be made because it was not up to code. OK, $295 estimate over and above the $100 servi ..Read Full Review
Recently made a claim because my water heater was leaking from the base. Called and made the claim on a Saturday afternoon, and later that same day, a plumber was at our house and determined that yes, the water heater needed to be replaced; how great was that service, right? However, substantial improvements needed to be made because it was not up to code. OK, $295 estimate over and above the $100 service call, me buying the new metal water heater stand. THEN, the claim was denied because of AHS reasoning that the failure was not due to normal wear and tear. REALLY? My neighbor heard this story, and said her home warranty company ($75 service call) sent a plumber with a replacement water heater, on his truck, and installed it on the wooden stand in her garage, at no extra charge, in one visit. ..View less
HelpfulOn Apr 01, 2021
The company has responded to the customer through the CRP system.
Debbie L Pryer, Jacksonville, NC
On Mar 28, 2021
Was given appt for ******* Plumbing to fix garbage disposal. Within minutes technician *** informed us we needed new garbage disposal and installed it in timely manner. Very professional, knowledgeable and patient. Very pleased w superior customer service.
HelpfulOn Apr 01, 2021
The company has responded to the customer through the CRP system.
Aaron Thompson, Yukon, OK
On Mar 28, 2021
Our ice maker and water dispenser broke on our fridge which was less than two years old. They were unable to find new parts for the ice maker and pump where the water comes into the fridge. They gave us a whole new fridge that was equivalent to what we had. The whole process was quick, less than three weeks Well done AHS!
HelpfulOn Apr 01, 2021
The company has responded to the customer through the CRP system.
Kathleen Oakley , Bartow, FL
On Mar 27, 2021
So far I have been pleased with Home Warranty. They replaced a TV after trying to fix the old one. Took a while to get my range top fixed because parts were slow getting in. The company that came out have always been professional. I have heard that they only offer a portion of getting a new appliance or air conditioner which isn’t what I understood is what they say. Hope I don’t have to deal ..Read Full Review
So far I have been pleased with Home Warranty. They replaced a TV after trying to fix the old one. Took a while to get my range top fixed because parts were slow getting in. The company that came out have always been professional. I have heard that they only offer a portion of getting a new appliance or air conditioner which isn’t what I understood is what they say. Hope I don’t have to deal with that because I will not be a happy camper. But so far I’m satisfied. ..View less
HelpfulOn Apr 01, 2021
The company has responded to the customer through the CRP system.
Deborah Raspberry, Birmingham, AL
On Mar 27, 2021
I requested electric repair online with AHS. In a few hours; I received a call from the electrician and scheduled a home visit. The electrician was professional, quick, and had great customer service. Thank you AHS for the great service. I only wish the deductible ($125) was a lesser amount.
HelpfulOn Apr 01, 2021
The company has responded to the customer through the CRP system.
Lynda Cameron, Pleasant Grove, AL
On Mar 26, 2021
I’ve had a great experience with AHS. They dispatched someone promptly however I had to wait on their availability. But overall I am satisfied. When I have called they were professional and helped resolve the issue.
HelpfulOn Mar 31, 2021
The company has responded to the customer through the CRP system.
Ellen F, West Des Moines, IA
On Mar 26, 2021
My sump pump wasn’t working and I had water in my basement. I called Customer Service at 11 pm, expecting them to be closed but I was able to schedule repair and told I would be called back by the company in the morning to schedule. Process was fast and simple. *** Plumbing, Heating and Cooling called back first thing the next morning. They said they would try to get out as quickly as possible a ..Read Full Review
My sump pump wasn’t working and I had water in my basement. I called Customer Service at 11 pm, expecting them to be closed but I was able to schedule repair and told I would be called back by the company in the morning to schedule. Process was fast and simple. *** Plumbing, Heating and Cooling called back first thing the next morning. They said they would try to get out as quickly as possible and ****, who is the owner, came that afternoon. **** was knowledgeable, professional and polite. He diagnosed the problem quickly ( motor was burnt out and pump was not fixable. ) **** replaced the pump and it’s been working great ever since! Also I had to have a basement waterproof specialist out the next day for an issue not Covered by my warranty and he said that the pump they installed is one of the best quality ones on the market. That gave me peace of mind. I was very pleased with responsiveness by Home Warranty Co. and in the quality and service of the vendor they Provided. Couldn’t have been more pleased! I was pleasantly surprised how fast the turn around was for them to get repairman out too. ..View less
HelpfulOn Mar 31, 2021
The company has responded to the customer through the CRP system.
Ready to share your home warranty experience with American Home Shield (AHS)? Click here to write your own review
American Home Shield (AHS) RATINGS
RATINGS
Customer Service
Repair Time
Quality of Repair
Claims and Settlement
On Apr 20, 2021
The company has responded to the customer through the CRP system.