Most home warranty plans cover a wide range of appliances and systems.
HomeServe is a little bit different. Most of this company’s plans cover one single item – like just your water line or just your air conditioner.
That can make HomeServe an excellent choice for a low-dollar home warranty if you’re only concerned about one particular home system.
But if you’re looking for more comprehensive protection, I suggest you look elsewhere. One of our picks for the best home warranties in the U.S. would be a good start.
Our Preferred Home Warranty Alternatives
Today’s Homeowner recommends a few home warranty companies to our readers. Below, you’ll see our latest suggestions and their money-saving deals. You can also read our review of the companies with similar home warranty plans to learn more about these top picks.
Our Review of HomeServe
HomeServe offers 18 plan choices in most areas, with pricing as low as $6 per month. This sounds great, until you dive into the details. Each policy is typically limited to a single major home systems, like your air conditioning system or gas lines.
The company does offer combination plans that cover multiple systems, but these are way more expensive than similar plans from other companies. And if you want protection for your home appliances, you’re pretty much out of luck with HomeServe. While the company briefly offered appliance coverage, this appears to have been eliminated.
However, we like that most HomeServe plans have no service fee and above-average coverage limits – meaning you’re not likely to spend much out of pocket if you need to file a claim.
As long as you understand that you’re buying a protection plan for a single thing, HomeServe can be a great choice.
HomeServe offers 18 individual plan options, which is above that which you’ll find with almost any other home warranty provider. Each one typically covers a single home system, letting you build a plan that covers only what you want to protect.
Most coverage plans include one-year workmanship guarantees on all repairs performed, while other home warranty provider options offer guarantees of 90 days or less. Many plans also include coverage for systems and items located outside of the home, like your exterior pipe segments, gas lines and sewer lines, which are excluded from most other plans.
Many of HomeServe’s plan options include a single system or appliance, which can be frustrating for homeowners looking for full property coverage. HomeServe’s plans also focus on home components, and do not cover appliances. If you need coverage for items like refrigerators, microwaves, and washer/dryer units, you’ll need to shop with a competitor.
HomeServe is one of the only home warranty companies to exclude service fees on most of its plans, which can be especially beneficial if you’re part of the quarter of American households with less than $500 in emergency savings.Some of HomeServe’s plans cost as little as $7 per month, which is an eye-poppingly low number. The company’s broader plans range from about $30 to $55 a month in most areas, which is on the more affordable end of the spectrum when compared to other providers as well.
While HomeServe’s plans are cheap, they cover a lot less than a traditional home warranty. These plans are aimed at major emergency repair needs, and do not cover common appliances like dishwashers and ovens. This reduces the overall value of HomeServe’s plans.
HomeServe’s quote process is exceptionally simple — just enter your ZIP code and utility provider to begin viewing plans in your area. You can then directly compare plan contracts with just a few clicks. When you’re ready to buy, coverage can be purchased entirely online without a home inspection or submitting maintenance records.
HomeServe’s wide selection of plans make for more easily customizable coverage, but can also make shopping a pain. Homeowners in search of straightforward plan options they can purchase quickly and without much in-depth research may want to consider a more general policy provider.
Based in Norwalk, CT, HomeService has been in business in the United States for more than 20 years — a testament to their policies’ values and their commitment to sticking to contract terms. While online reviews of HomeServe are average, the company’s 48-hour technician dispatch promise can be ideal for anxious first-time homeowners who may not know when to call for repairs.
In January 2023, HomeServe USA settled a lawsuit that alleged that it provided “plans that failed to provide a material benefit to consumers and made material misrepresentations.” The company paid $350,000 in consumer restitution funds to policyholders. While this government action is not a regular occurrence for HomeServe, it is something that local homeowners should be aware of.
HomeServe makes it easy to file a claim, providing customers with an online portal to submit information at any time. If you run into trouble with the website, HomeServe also supports a 24/7 phone number you can use to connect with a representative and schedule a repair. HomeServe’s policies specify that a repair will be provided within 24 hours of filing a claim, making it an exceptionally responsive provider.
Some customer reviews claim that HomeServe’s customer representative teams denied claims based on fine print or technicalities that were not outlined or highlighted when they bought coverage. HomeServe does not disclose its claims acceptance rate, which means that customers should be aware of the risk of rejections when they enroll.
HomeServe is available in 48 states, and partners with a number of local utility providers to provide more advantageous rates in select areas. After entering your ZIP code, you’ll be able to instantly browse plans available to you as well as state-specific sample contracts.
HomeServe USA does not currently provide policy options in Hawaii or Alaska.
HomeServe Plans and Coverage Options
Most home warranty providers offer between two to four home warranty plans, each with its own list of things they cover. HomeServe, on the other hand, offers up to 18 individual plan choices depending on your location. Policies range in price from $3.99 to $55.99 per month in most areas. But again, it’s vital to point out that each of these HomeServe plans typically only covers one single thing, like your air conditioner or gas lines. There are a few combination plans, but even these leave out appliance coverage.
Another notable point about HomeServe and its plans is that most do not include a service call fee. HomeServe will pay reps and technicians dispatched to your account directly. This can make HomeServe one of the best home warranty companies for those looking for low per-use fees. The table below summarizes HomeServe’s current service plans and per-month costs.
| Plan | Monthly cost |
| Electrical surge | $3.99 |
| Gas line | $6.49 |
| Exterior water service line coverage | $7.95 |
| Water heater (repair only) | $9.49 |
| Interior electrical line | $11.99 |
| Tech protection (essential) | $11.99 |
| Exterior sewer and septic line | $12.98 |
| Heating system | $12.99 |
| Water heater (repair and replacement) | $12.99 |
| Cooling system | $12.99 |
| Tech protection (premier) | $17.99 |
| Interior plumbing and drainage system | $18.99 |
| Home plumbing and drainage | $18.99 |
| Heating and cooling plan | $19.99 |
| Exterior service line coverage | $20.97 |
| Home comfort plan | $29.99 |
| Complete Plumbing Plan | $41.99 |
| Interior protection plan | $55.99 |
*Costs listed in the table above were collected using a sample property located in Mechanicsburg, PA. Repair plans and pricing may vary by location.
Here’s a breakdown of what a few of these plans actually cover.
HomeServe Single-Item Plans
- Electrical surge: This policy includes coverage for up to $1,000 in coverage for damage caused by an electrical surge to interior electrical lines. With a monthly cost of less than $4, this plan can be added onto other, more comprehensive options.
- Gas line: This plan covers both interior and exterior gas lines, and includes coverage for both repairs and restoration of these important home systems. It includes up to $8,000 coverage per term, as well as a one-year repair guarantee on covered repairs performed.
- Exterior water service line: This plan also covers restoration of the water line after a collapse if needed, and maxes out at $7,000 per term.
- Water heater (repair only): This plan limits water heater coverage to repairs only, which can be beneficial if you’ve recently replaced your water heater and are less likely to need a replacement. This plan covers repairs up to $850 per contract term.
- Interior electrical line: This plan covers only the interior electrical line work in your home, with a one year guarantee on all repairs covered. This plan includes up to $2,500 a year in benefits per term, and includes a 30-day waiting period before coverage goes into effect.
- Tech protection (essential): This unique protection plan includes coverage for a computer, tablet, and television. Coverage is limited by device, and there is a $3,000 maximum aggregate benefit amount per year. The tech protection essential plan is one of the only HomeServe plans with a service call fee, which is currently set at $100 every time you use coverage.
- Exterior sewer and septic line: This plan covers your exterior sewer line as well as your septic system line up to $10,000 annually. This plan also includes a one-year guarantee on all repairs performed.
- Heating system: This plan option covers your heating system’s components up to $1,750 per contract term.
- Water heater (repair and replacement): This plan covers both water heater repairs and replacements up to $1,500 per year.
- Cooling system: This affordable plan option covers only an interior air conditioning system up to $1,750 per contract term. This plan includes coverage for up to one pound of refrigerant relay per year as well.
- Tech protection (premier): The tech protection premier coverage option is an enhanced form of the tech protection plan, covering everything listed in the previous plan plus a cell phone. Like the tech protection essential coverage option, this plan includes a $100 service fee each time you call for a repair.
HomeServe Combination Plans
- Interior plumbing and drainage systems: This policy includes coverage for your interior plumbing and drainage system, including stoppages. It includes a one-year guarantee on all repairs, and covers two individual visits up to $1,500 per year.
- Home plumbing and drainage: This plan includes coverage for up to two instances of interior plumbing and drainage problems. For each service appointment, policyholders are entitled to up to $1,500 in repair or replacement credits.
- Heating and Cooling Plan: The heating and cooling plan is similar to the HVAC system coverage you’ll find on systems plans from competing providers. It covers components of both a heating system and a cooling system against up to $10,000 in damage per contract term.
- Exterior service line: This plan covers a multitude of service lines located outside of your home, including your water, septic and sewer lines. This plan also covers line restoration and limited drain cleaning. Exterior service line coverage includes a total over upperall limit of $17,000 in maximum benefits.
- Home Comfort Plan: The home comfort plan includes coverage for an interior and exterior gas line, your cooling system, and the heating system. It also includes coverage for water heater repair services, with a $10,000 annual maximum benefit limit.
- Complete Plumbing Plan: The Complete Plumbing Plan covers your exterior water service line, exterior septic and sewer line, interior plumbing and drainage, drain cleaning, interior and exterior gas lines, and water heater repair. This plan covers up to $10,000 in maximum annual benefits, with an individual limit of $2,500 on each individual component. This policy includes a one-year guarantee on all covered repairs as well.
- Interior Protection Plan: The interior protection plan is HomeServe’s option for premium home protection, with more things included than any other the company offers. This policy includes coverage for interior plumbing and drainage, interior and exterior gas lines, interior electrical lines, a cooling system, a heating system and water heater repair. Like some other coverages, the interior protection policy includes a one-year guarantee on all repairs covered through the policy.
The table below summarizes what you can and cannot get coverage for through a combination of HomeServe plans listed above.
| Home System or Appliance | Plan Option |
| Electrical Systems | |
| Built-in exhaust, vent and attic fan | X |
| Ceiling fan | X |
| Doorbell and chimes | X |
| Garage door opener | X |
| Interior electrical lines | ✓ |
| Main breaker and fuse panel box | ✓ |
| Heating and Cooling Systems | |
| Air conditioner | ✓ |
| Ductwork | ✓ |
| Heating unit | ✓ |
| Plumbing Systems and Accessories | |
| Faucets and valves | ✓ |
| Interior plumbing lines | ✓ |
| Toilets | ✓ |
| Water heater | ✓ |
| Whirlpool bathtub motor and components | X |
| Kitchen Appliances | |
| Built-in microwaves | X |
| Cooktops/ranges | X |
| Dishwashers | X |
| Garbage disposal | X |
| Ice maker | X |
| Instant hot/cold water dispenser | X |
| Refrigerators | X |
| Stove/ovens | X |
| Laundry Appliances | |
| Clothes dryers | X |
| Clothes washers | X |
| Roof | |
| Roof leak repair | X |
What Optional Add-ons Does HomeServe Offer?
Unlike most other home warranty service providers, HomeServe does not offer add-on coverage choices that you can add to your plan. However, many of its plans cover singular home appliances and systems, and cost only a few dollars a month. Consider combining multiple plans together to create your ideal coverage, but combo plans created in this way can be more expensive than competitors’ comparable options.
Does HomeServe Have Any Exclusions?
Like all home warranty coverage providers, HomeServe’s plans include exclusions on each plan option. Some exclusions you’ll find on coverage include the following.
Individual system components
Individual system components are excluded from coverage on each plan. For example, HomeServe’s heating system plan coverage excludes damage done to air ducts, registers, air filters, zoning components and electronics, electronic air cleaners, flue venting, humidifiers, thermostats, thermostat wiring, air balancing, chimney maintenance or repairs, heating jacket, asbestos or other insulation, and heat exchangers.
Each plan listed above contains its own list of excluded components, which is important to review before buying a plan. HomeServe makes its fine print easy to understand by offering a sample contract for each plan available in your area after entering your zip code. HomeServe also employs a team of customer service reps and plan professionals who can help you learn more about coverage over the phone.
Damages caused by misuse
Damage caused by intentional or accidental misuse of your home systems is not covered under any HomeServe plan. Home systems and components damaged by a lack of regular maintenance or timely repairs are also excluded from coverage.
Damage caused by mold
Damage caused by mold is excluded under the terms of all HomeServe’s contracts. It can be helpful to get a mold inspection before purchasing a HomeServe plan if you think mold might be present, as this seemingly benign fungal infestation can quickly cause thousands of dollars in home damages.
Specific exclusions may vary by system, policy, and your location.
Does HomeServe Have Any Coverage Limits?
Like every home warranty policy, HomeServe institutes a series of coverage limits that cap what the company will pay in the event that you need a home repair. The table below summarizes coverage limits on each plan option, as well as the number of individual service calls included under coverage.
| Plan | Coverage limits | Number of service calls covered |
| Complete Plumbing Plan | $2,500 individual coverage limit for each item; $10,000 overall aggregate coverage limit | Unlimited |
| Cooling system | $1,750 | Unlimited |
| Electrical surge | $1,000 | Unlimited |
| Exterior sewer and septic line coverage | $10,000 | Unlimited |
| Exterior service line coverage | $7,000 coverage for exterior water service line, $10,000 coverage for exterior sewer and septic line coverage; $17,000 aggregate benefit limit | Unlimited |
| Exterior water service line coverage | $7,000 | Unlimited |
| Gas line plus | $8,000 | Unlimited |
| Heating and cooling plan | $10,000 | Unlimited |
| Heating system | $1,750 | Unlimited |
| Home comfort plan | $10,000 | Unlimited |
| Home plumbing and drainage | $12,000 maximum benefit; $7,000 limit for exterior and septic lines, $5,000 coverage limit for interior plumbing | Exterior sewer and septic lines: 2 calls, $3,500 per call. Interior plumbing: 2 calls, $2,500 per call |
| Interior electrical line | $2,500 | Unlimited |
| Interior plumbing and drainage system coverage | $3,000 overall limit | 2 calls; $1,500 maximum coverage limit per call |
| Interior protection plan | $2,500 individual coverage limit for each item; $10,000 overall aggregate coverage limit | Unlimited |
| Tech protection essential | $3,000 overall coverage limit; $1,500 limit for televisions and computers, $1,000 limit for tablets | Unlimited with $100 service fee per call |
| Tech protection premier | $3,000 overall coverage limit; $1,500 limit for televisions, cell phones, and computers, $1,000 limit for tablets | Unlimited with $100 service fee per call |
| Water heater (repair and replacement) | $1,500 | Unlimited |
| Water heater (repair only) | $850 | Unlimited |
HomeServe Customer Reviews
In our quest for the best home warranty companies, we read dozens of HomeServe reviews across multiple third party platforms, including the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Trustpilot, and Google Reviews. Customer reviews of HomeServe USA are moderate, with customers rating the company between two and three stars out of five on average. HomeServe is accredited with the BBB, and maintains an A- company rating.
Positive Reviews of HomeServe USA
Positive HomeServe reviews indicate that in many areas, technicians are responsive, and have the resources needed to quickly respond to any home emergency covered under policy terms. Many customers report that in their time of need, HomeServe stuck to the terms of its promises, and provided a repair or replacement that was completely financially covered.
Negative Reviews of HomeServe USA
Negative reviews of HomeShield indicate that some customers did not feel that the home warranty service provider lived up to its promises, denying coverage after months’ of loyalty. Customers expressed frustration with HomeServe reps, who they felt often used complex verbiage and fine print to deny claims.
How To File a Claim With HomeServe
Making a claim with HomeServe is relatively simple, requiring only the following steps.
- Step 1: Log into your HomeServe account, which will be provided to you when you finalize your policy selection and purchase.
- Step 2: Use your account portal’s claims section to tell HomeServe about the issue.
- Step 3: A representative will review your claim, and follow up to schedule an appointment with a
- technician if you’re covered. In most cases, you can expect a follow up within two to four hours.
- Step 4: HomeServe will arrange payment on your behalf, less your service fee if your plan has one. A verified technician will visit your property and provide a repair on your behalf.
If you run into trouble with HomeServe’s website, you can also file a claim with a phone call. HomeServe’s repair hotline is available around-the-clock at 1-855-336-2465.
HomeServe vs. Other Home Warranty Companies
Want to explore other home warranty companies? Use the table below to start learning more about some other popular home warranty providers.
| Provider | Best for | Monthly Cost | Service Fee | BBB Rating* | Date Founded | Company Reviews |
| HomeServe | Best Exterior Protection | $6 – $56 | $0 – $100 | A- | 2002 | |
| Liberty Home Guard | Best for Customization | $50 – $70 | $65 – $125 | A+ | 2017 | Read our review of Liberty Home Guard |
| Select Home Warranty | Best Value | $60 – $65 | $75 – $100 | C | 2012 | Read our review of Select Home Warranty |
Is HomeServe Worth It for You?
HomeServe can be an affordable option if you’re looking for coverage on a single home system. For example, if you’re worried about your water line, but not much else, HomeServe is the way to go. But if you’re looking for broader, more complete coverage I recommend you go elsewhere. For example, HomeServe does not offer appliance coverage like you’ll find with other low-cost home warranty options.
HomeServe may also be worth the cost for its uniquely high level of customization. It offers 18 unique coverages, which can help you build your own plan. It also offers tech protections, which can provide peace of mind if you have multiple valuable electronics.
While some may find HomeServe to be worth the cost, it may not be the best choice for most residential homeowners. Continue exploring other home warranty companies using the table below.
FAQs About HomeServe
What kind of company is HomeServe USA?
HomeServe is a home warranty company, providing policies that cover the cost of repairs and replacements when one of your home systems breaks down due to regular wear-and-tear. Unlike most home warranty companies, however, HomeServe focuses on plans that cover one single item or a small collection of items. It doesn’t offer broad, full-home coverage like most other home warranty providers do.
Is HomeServe expensive?
While individual HomeServe plans are affordably priced, customizing your plan can be more expensive. When it comes to whole home coverage, HomeServe is more expensive than most competitors.
What are the benefits of HomeServe?
HomeServe offers single system policies from less than $10 per month, which will fit seamlessly into most homeowners’ budgets. Most policies have no service fees, which means that you don’t need to pay upfront when receiving your needed repairs.
Methodology: How We Rank Home Warranty Companies
At Today’s Homeowner, we strive to bring you the most transparent, accurate information for your home improvement projects. Our home warranty company ratings emphasize what matters most to you — whether you’re looking for low-cost coverage, a hassle-free repair process, 24/7 assistance, or all of the above.
Our ratings are based on publicly available information about each company, secret shopping online and over the phone, customer-review analysis, and discussions with real estate professionals and repair contractors. We put through HomeServe and a long list of other home warranty providers through the same test to help determine if it’s right for you.
A company can earn a maximum of 100 points across six categories converted to a five-star scale. We researched more than 60 home warranty providers to develop the following formula:
- Plans and Coverage (24 points): A home warranty provider can earn the maximum point value in this category if it offers multiple robust plans that cover all basic systems and appliances and optional add-on coverage. We give bonus points to companies that cover uncommon items, such as electronics and roof leaks. HomeServe performed well for its long list of plans, but lost points for not offering appliance coverage.
- Affordability (22.5 points): When evaluating costs, we not only consider monthly plan prices, but we also take into account the cost of add-on coverage, service fees, and whether companies offer free cancellation periods or money-back guarantees. If a provider allows potential customers to view sample contracts before getting a quote, that transparency earns more points in this category. HomeServe has low-cost plans, which helped it score well here.
- Customer Experience (18.5 points): A home warranty company must give its customers ample support when they experience issues. We gauge overall support by looking at customer reviews and conducting homeowner surveys. We also go through the quotes process with each company and take meticulous notes about the friendliness of salespeople, how detailed each quote is, and how often the provider contacts us after giving a quote. HomeServe’s shopping experience is decent, but can feel overwhelming.
- Company Reputation (17.5 points): In this category, we look at a combination of customer reviews and reputable organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB). We also consider the years of company experience, how satisfied its employees are, and whether it has been hit with any consumer rights violations or lawsuits. HomeServe gets decent reviews, but did settle a lawsuit recently – so it didn’t earn full marks.
- Claims Process (12.5 points): We score providers highly when they offer short response times, multiple ways to file claims, and around-the-clock availability. Companies can earn bonus points if they have a good reputation for quick and easy claims processing. HomeServe’s claims process is remarkably easy, helping it earn points here.
- Availability (5 points): Providers that serve more areas can have experience dealing with a wider range of homeowner headaches. A company earns the maximum points in this category if it offers services in most U.S. states. HomeServe is available in 48 states, so it performed well in this category.
We monitor company data on an ongoing basis to keep rankings and information up to date.
