A home warranty fills the gaps between your home’s needs and homeowners insurance. Home insurance contracts typically only pay out if the breakdown or damage happened from a covered event – such as a snowstorm, fire, or wind. Your home insurance company can’t help with a backed-up septic system.
However, the right home warranty coverage protects items excluded by your homeowner’s insurance policy. For a monthly or annual fee, you’ll receive protection for your home appliances and home systems — including your septic system. All home warranties have exclusions, however. If you’re shopping for the best home warranty for septic systems, read the warranty’s fine print to make sure a septic tank has coverage.
If you don’t want to spend hours combing through your options and the thought of reading the fine print makes you go cross-eyed, we at Today’s Homeowner have done that work for you. We’ve called each company on this list, applied for quotes, and found out what they cover. Using our scoring system, which rates affordability, availability, ease of the claims process, and more, we’ve found the best home warranty for septic systems.
Here’s how we ranked and reviewed the nation’s top home warranty companies to bring you the most accurate information.
Our team of experts reviewed over 70 home warranty providers to compare plan options, coverage limits, prices, and customer feedback.
We collected over 100 sample quotes from dozens of home warranty companies to give you an accurate look at industry pricing.
Our rating system scores providers based on 6 key factors: coverage options, affordability, customer experience, reputation, claims processes, and availability.
Read our full Home Warranty Review Methodology for more details.
Top 5 Home Warranty Companies for Septic System
- First American is easily a winner in my book. It has the most comprehensive septic tank coverage of all its competitors. Its coverage includes the sewage ejector pump, the jet pump, the aerobic pump, and the septic tank line, all for one low fee.
- “If you read anything in the sample contract, read the exclusions. Be sure to look out for exclusions regarding septic tank pumping, leach line, drain field, or sewage ejector pumps. Many companies don’t cover one or all three in their septic tank coverage.
- If you’re shopping for a home warranty specifically to cover your septic system, most home warranty plans don’t cover every component of the system. Make a list of any recent repairs and replacements you’ve done lately, as you could deprioritize them on your list of what you need in your policy.
My Expert Recommendation
If you live in a state where First American sells policies and you’re shopping for septic tank coverage, it’s my top pick. Other companies only cover one or two of the pumps, commonly excluding either the sewage pump or the aerobic pump. Or, they only cover the sewage ejector pump as a separate add-on.
First American’s septic tank coverage is the most comprehensive of the companies on this list and is available for only $7.08 a month. They sell three plans and offer the option to choose one of three service fees. With First American, you can pay reasonable fees and get the most protection on the market.
Home Warranty Companies for Septic Systems I Didn’t Include
Two home warranty companies engage in shady business practices, particularly when selling policies, have unclear contracts, and, in some cases, have run afoul of the authorities.
While operating under the name Total Home Protection, Service Plus Home Warranty paid a $400,000 settlement to the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General in 2021 for deceptive marketing. The company changed its name, but that doesn’t mean it’s changed its business practices.
US Home Guard also has deceptive marketing tactics. The Better Business Bureau issued a press release to warn consumers about doing business with the US Home Guard, primarily due to its confusing marketing. The company uses scare tactics (Your home warranty is about to expire!) on mailers sent to homeowners who have never been customers.
I’d recommend avoiding both companies.
Compare The Highest Rated Home Warranties for Septic System
| Company | Rating | Monthly Cost | Service Fee | Response Time | BBB Rating | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
$50-$60 |
$75 |
12-48 hrs. |
NR |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
$35–$75 |
$100–$125 |
24-72 hrs |
B |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
$44.99-$58.99 |
$70 |
48 hours |
A+ |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
$46–$55 |
$85 |
24-48 hrs. |
B |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
$52–$58 |
$75-$85 |
24-48 hrs. |
B |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
$38–$62 |
$75–$125 |
48 hours |
B |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
$38–$48 |
$75–$125 |
48 hours |
B |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
$17–$60+ |
$65–$100 |
2–24 hrs |
A- |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
$28–$68 |
$100–$150 |
2–24 hrs |
B |
Quote and cost data gathered January 2024. Cost data are updated and monitored continuously.
Our Reviews of the Best Home Warranties for Septic Systems
Liberty Home Guard
4.6
Our Rating
Liberty Home Guard earned the title of “best for customization” because it offers 42 add-ons for homeowners to customize their plan’s coverage. Septic system pumping costs only $12.99 more a month.
In addition to its comprehensive list of additional coverage options, Liberty Home Guard wants its customers to be happy with its service. Its service guarantee covers any repairs or replacements for 60 days. You won’t pay another service fee if you have to file a claim on the same item during that period. Liberty guarantees service within 24–48 hours after you file a claim, and you can use their app to track a claim’s progress.
Rather than auto-renewing your policy — because no one likes those surprise auto-renewal charges — Liberty’s renewals department calls 60 days ahead of your renewal date to check if you want to continue service or make changes. The cancellation policy gives you a 100% refund during the first 30 days, after which you’ll receive a prorated amount less a $50 cancellation fee.
Their great customer service, large list of add-ons, and other ways to customize and choose service stand out from the crowd.
Some of Liberty’s add-ons are more expensive than those of their competitors. For example, additional coverage for septic system pumping costs $12.99 a month with Liberty but only $10.83 a month with Elite Home Warranty and $5.83 a month at Select Home Warranty. However, since competitors may not offer coverage in your state or sell other add-ons that you need, Liberty could still be your best choice.
When you file a claim, you’ll pay a service fee for a technician to come out to your house. Every company charges a service fee, but Liberty’s price is higher than many competitors. While pricing varies by state, they charge $85 to $125, which is higher than what Select Home Warranty or Elite Home Warranty have quoted me.
Home warranty companies also have coverage limits or the maximum they will pay for a repair or replacement. Liberty’s coverage tops out at $2,000 per covered item, which is low.
For some homeowners, Liberty Home Guard could be the perfect combination of septic system coverage, overall coverage, and great customer service. It promises short wait times for services and is one of the few companies to have an app that updates you on claims. While not the cheapest provider on a per-item or service fee level, when you put it all together, it may add up to your best option.
Liberty sells three plans: the Systems Guard for systems coverage, the Appliance Guard plan to protect appliances, and the Total Home Guard plan for both. Homeowners with existing warranties or service plans on appliances and systems may only want the Systems Guard or Appliance plan, but don’t worry. Its comprehensive list of add-ons comes with every plan.
When I installed a new HVAC system, the company offered me an annual service plan. The last time I bought a refrigerator from a big-box store, I received constant emails about its warranty. If you’ve had the same experience and did sign up for these plans, you may only need coverage for one or the other.
The Systems Guard Plan protects home systems such as plumbing systems, water heaters, heating systems, an air conditioner, ductwork, and electrical systems. The Appliance Guard Plan protects all major appliances: clothes washer, clothes dryer, refrigerator, dishwasher, range/oven/cooktop, built-in microwave, garbage disposal, ceiling fans, garage door openers, and exhaust fans. Buying either of these plans could supplement existing warranties and service plans.
But if you have no existing service plans or warranties on either your appliances or systems, you’ll want the Total Home Guard plan. This plan combines the coverage of the other two into Liberty Home Guard’s most comprehensive coverage.
Some home warranty companies only sell policies if you pay for a year in advance, but Liberty Home Guard gives you a choice. Either pay monthly or annually, but if you pay for a year in advance, you’ll get two free months. If you feel comfortable paying for three, four, or more years, you’ll get more free months. For example, if you prepay for three years, you get four months free. Deals available online and over the phone include $200 off for a full-year plan plus limited roof leak protection.
| Plan | Monthly Cost | Service Fee | Available Discounts |
| Appliance Guard | $49.99 | $85 – $125 | One year paid in advance $499.99 (2 months free) |
| Systems Guard | $54.99 | $85 – $125 | One year paid in advance $549.99 (2 months free) |
| Total Home Guard | $59.99 | $85 – $125 | One year paid in advance $599.99 (2 months free) online, $575 (2 months free) over the phone |
Editor’s Note: The cost data mentioned in this article was sourced for a single-family, two-bedroom home under 5,000 square feet in Kentucky. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.
Available Add-Ons
Homeowners with a sump pump, a central vacuum, or a pool and spa can add them onto their policy with Liberty Home Guard. Choose from 42 different add-ons.
- Pool and spa: $19.99/month
- Additional spa: $9.99/month
- Lawn sprinkler system: $9.99/month
- Saltwater pool: $23.99/month
- Generator: $19.99/month
- Casita guest unit: $35.99/month
- Sump pump: $8.99/month
- Well pump: $12.99/month
- Septic system pumping: $12.99/month
- Ejector pump: $14.99/month
- Grinder pump: $14.99/month
- Limited roof leak: $11.99/month
- Re-Key: $9.99/month
- Gutter cleaning: $14.99/month
- Pest control: $14.99/month
- Carpet cleaning: $19.99/month
- Window washing/cleaning: $19.99/month
- Power washing (exterior flooring): $19.99/month
- Central vacuum: $8.99/month
- Stand-alone freezer: $5.99/month
- Water softener: $13.99/month
- Swamp cooler: $14.99/month
- Second refrigerator: $7.99/month
- Trash compactor: $7.49/month
- Ice maker (in-fridge): $3.99/month
- Freestanding ice maker: $14.99/month
- Wine cooler/fridge: $11,99/month
- Water dispenser water line: $4.99/month
- Instant hot water dispenser: $9.99/month
- Reverse osmosis water filter system: $14.99/month
- Lighting fixtures: $7.99/month
- Plumbing fixtures: $7.99/month
- Electronics protection: $19.99/month
- TV mounting (up to 65-inch TVs): $14.99/month
- TV mounting (up to 85-inch TVs): $19.99/month
- Pro-Series Refrigerator: $14.99/month
- Pro-Series Stand Alone Freezer: $14.99/month
- Pro-Series Range/Oven/Cooktop: $12.99/month
- Pro-Series Dishwasher: $7.99/month
- Pro-Series Microwave: $4.99/month
- Pro-Series Washing Machine: $4.99/month
- Pro-Series Clothes Dryer: $4.99/month
If your house has systems or appliances that you don’t see on this list, ask LHG if they can cover it. After giving the company the make and model of an item not on this list, it will try to provide you with specialized coverage.
The list of add-ons can be overwhelming. It’s helpful to see what other homeowners in your state thought were useful. After you apply for a quote, LHG shows you this bar on its website to narrow down your options.
Exclusions
If you need a repair that’s on the exclusions list, Liberty Home Guard will not pay out on the claim. Liberty Home Guard’s plans exclusions include:
- Flues, vents, chimneys, and exhaust lines
- Electronics, computerized, “smart,” or Internet/enabled components and parts
- Filters associated with any covered items
- Remote receiving and transmitting devices
- Radon and other leak detection monitoring systems
- Fire sprinkler systems
- Lighting
- Solar systems and applications
- Cosmetic defects
- Disposal of appliances, systems, or components
- Cranes or other specialty vehicles required to install, remove, or access your appliances or home systems
- Glass parts
- Noise
Editor’s Note: While this article highlights certain exclusions, it is imperative for readers to review their contracts as the mentioned exclusions are not exhaustive, and additional exclusions may apply.
Liberty’s coverage limits are also quite low. Liberty pays out to $2,000 per covered item — which might not be enough if you bought a high-end stove and didn’t add on pro-series range coverage. In comparison, Elite Home Warranty’s coverage limit per item is $6,000, and AFC Home’s Club’s is $3,000.
LHG receives high marks for having a sample contract easy to find on its website, so you’ll know what you’re getting for your monthly fees.
However, Liberty’s higher pricing for additional coverage lowers its score. For example, a well pump costs $12.99 a month with Liberty, but Select Home Warranty charges $3.33 a month for this add-on. Multiple options for service fees are another factor in rating affordability. Still, at the higher end of Liberty’s range of service fees, you’re also paying more per service call than with Elite Home Warranty and Select. When I called on a holiday weekend and asked about additional discounts, Liberty offered me a lower service fee.
Liberty Home Guard charges monthly premiums within its competitor’s range. Since a discount isn’t guaranteed, we used undiscounted prices in our comparisons. Pricing could go higher and lower if you get a deal.
Liberty Home Guard has an easy-to-navigate and comprehensive website. You can find answers to your questions on its website or by calling one of its always-pleasant customer service representatives. The quote process is easy, and customers can submit claims 24/7/365. They’re also one of the few home warranty companies with an app, which you can use to file a claim, see when it’s approved, and track the service technician’s progress to your house.
Their 60-day service guarantee covers you for longer than American Home Shield’s 30-day guarantee, but Elite Home Warranty, AFC Home Club, and Select Home Warranty all guarantee their work for longer. Lastly, there’s a 30-day waiting period before coverage starts, which isn’t unusual for the industry.
While only founded in 2017, Liberty has established itself as an industry leader. Over 2,600 customers rated it 4.7 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, and over 10,000 customers on Google also said it deserved a high rating. Reviewers mention that customer service is always top-notch, there is fast claim resolution, and technicians got the job done right the first time and didn’t have to come back out.
Complaints relate to reimbursement policies. In certain situations, Liberty will reimburse a homeowner if they have to call their own service technician to perform a repair. Some customers complain that they weren’t reimbursed the full amount or all of a repair or replacement. However, Liberty’s policy states that customers must provide proof of payment, that service technicians chosen by the customer must be licensed, and insured, and that typical coverage limits apply. It’s possible these customers didn’t follow the appropriate steps.
Misunderstanding coverage exclusions in Liberty’s policy is a common thread among the few negative reviews that Liberty has received.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | NR / 4.5 out of 5 stars | 2,518 |
| Trustpilot | 4.7/5 stars | 2,624 |
| 4.7/5 stars | 10,454 | |
| Yelp | 1.4 / 5 stars | 59 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
Multiple channels to open a claim, 24/7/365 days availability, and a promised response time all led to Liberty’s great rating for its claims process.
Those who prefer to handle life on their phone can download Liberty Home Guard’s app to file and track claims. You can also use the customer portal on the website or call directly.
After partnering with Progressive Insurance, Liberty has a larger network of technicians and says they’ll send someone out within 24-48 hours of filing a claim. Liberty’s service fee stays the same whether you need help during business hours, at night, or on the weekend. With some competitors, such as Elite Home Warranty, the service fee goes up outside the normal nine-to five.
Liberty Home Guard sells plans in all 50 states, more than competitor First American. It is available 24/7/365 days a year by phone, website, or app, which should increase your confidence in its ability to serve your needs.
Select Home Warranty
4.2
Our Rating
If you’re shopping for home warranty plans within a strict budget, Select Home Warranty is your best value. Their combination of low service fees, reasonably priced plans, and emergency service might be just what you need.
Select Home Warranty charges just $44 a month for its basic plan after special offers. The undiscounted price of $60.42 a month isn’t the cheapest, but I’ve never had it quoted at the full price. Select charges just $75 for each service call, whereas competitors’ fees start at $100 and go up to $125, which is important to consider when pricing out the total cost of a plan. And adding a septic system costs just $5.83 a month.
Select promises that service technicians will head out within 24–48 hours after you place a claim. Their 90-day workmanship guarantee is better than both AHS’ 30-day guarantee and Liberty Home Guard’s 60-day guarantee. In some states, if you have an emergency — such as your air conditioning going out — Select can send their emergency team, which stands ready to service those calls within four hours.
Even if you’re paying a cheap service fee, you still don’t want to have to call in a service technician for the same repair multiple times. Unfortunately, customers say that the company didn’t stick to its promised 24-48-hour response time after they filed a claim and that it denied claims repeatedly. Reviewers say that the service technician wasn’t qualified and couldn’t complete the repair, resulting in extra trips and fees.
I also don’t like that you can’t get a quote or pricing information online. Its website lacks a lot of basic information, and it took me a while to find its terms and conditions. It makes it difficult to verify information given over the phone or research more about the plans and company.
Select Home Warranty also doesn’t have an extensive list of additional coverage options. It only sells nine add-ons, though its monthly charge for a septic system is one of the cheapest. Customers who want to cancel after the first 30 days must pay a $75 cancellation fee, too.
If you just need a basic plan plus septic system coverage, then Select Home Warranty could fit your budget and your home’s needs. The 90-day workmanship guarantee is one of the best in the business, and it increases the likelihood you won’t have to pay another service fee if the repaired item breaks down again. Select Home Warranty works well for budget-conscious shoppers in search of value.
Select sells three warranty plans. You can add any of Select’s add-on coverage to all of its plans for the same price, including septic system coverage.
For homeowners with older appliances with no current warranties or service plans, the Bronze Care plan protects your refrigerator, clothes washer, and dryer, stove, cooktop, or oven, garbage disposal, dishwasher, and built-in microwave. It’s an easy way to get service without having to call around town and find a technician.
What if you have manufacturer warranties and service plans on your appliances? Instead of the Bronce Care plan, look at the Select’s Gold Care plan to protect your home’s systems. It includes coverage for heating, air conditioning, ductwork, plumbing, and electrical systems.
Platinum Care protects both systems and appliances and adds a garage door opener, ceiling fan, and plumbing stoppages. It’s the most comprehensive and expensive plan that Select sells.
Coverage limits for HVAC repair or replacement are just $3,000, much lower than American Home Shield but higher than Liberty Home Guard. The limits fall even lower for appliances, plumbing, and electrical, with a maximum coverage of just $500. Coverage limits for items on its add-on list are sometimes just $400. These are some of the lowest limits I’ve seen among competitors.
Select has a deal for two months free and $150 off to customers who pay for the full year in advance. The two free months make your total contract term 14 months. The service fee is $75.
| Plan | Monthly Cost* | Service Fee | Available Discounts |
| Bronze Care | $44.92/month | $75 | $150 off discount on the phone, also two months free if you pay the annual fee up-front. |
| Gold Care | $44.92/month | $75 | $150 off discount on the phone, also two months free if you pay the annual fee up-front. |
| Platinum Care | $47.75/month | $75 | $150 off discount on the phone, also two months free if you pay the annual fee up-front. |
*Note: The monthly cost figures provided include the discounted rate offered at time of writing. Select Home Warranty has been running this promotion since the beginning of this year.
Editor’s Note: The cost data mentioned in this article was sourced for a single-family, two-bedroom home under 5,000 square feet in Seattle, WA. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.
Available Add-Ons
Select Home Warranty only sells nine add-ons to increase your plan’s coverage. However, they do sell septic system coverage at a cheaper rate than Liberty Home Guard and Elite Home Warranty.
- Central Vacuum: $3.33/mo
- Lawn Sprinkler System: $5.83/mo
- Pool: $8.33/mo
- Roof Leak: $0/mo
- Septic System: $5.83/mo
- Spa: $5.83/mo
- Stand-Alone Freezer: $3.33/mo
- Sump Pump: $3.33/mo
- Well Pump: $3.33/mo
Septic system coverage does not include the cost to locate, access, or install a ground-level cleanout for a septic tank. The aerobic pump, sewage ejector, jet pump, and septic tank do fall under the warranty coverage. But the tile fields, leach beds, and lines, and lateral lines aren’t covered, nor will Select cover problems due to insufficient capacity, perform a clean out, or pump the tank.
Exclusions
In addition to the components and services related to a septic tank that I discuss in the “Available Add-ons” section, SHW’s contracts exclude a problem the homeowner should have reasonably known about or a preexisting condition. Other exclusions are:
- Secondary damage (i.e., your home warranty may cover roof damage but won’t cover water damage caused by the leak)
- Incorrect installation or malfunctions due to construction damage or improper wiring
- Issues with systems or appliances related to hazardous or toxic materials (i.e., mold, asbestos, gas leaks, etc.)
- Common areas in condominiums or family homes
- Solar heating systems
- Damage caused by natural disasters and rust
- Defects or damages caused by the foundation and structure of the home
Editor’s Note: While this article highlights certain exclusions, it is imperative for readers to review their contracts as the mentioned exclusions are not exhaustive, and additional exclusions may apply.
Plan pricing is within the normal range once you receive a discount but higher than competitors without one. You can find the terms and conditions online. The cost of service call fees — only $75 versus $100 to $125 with competitors’ plans — is a great value. If you live in a state where Select has emergency service, emergency calls don’t cost more.
While you can cancel and get a prorated refund after 30 days of coverage, Select charges a $75 cancellation fee. Liberty Home Guard’s cancellation fee is only $50, and other companies don’t charge one at all.
Even though Select’s website collects your information, such as an address, phone number, and email, when you apply for a free quote, it doesn’t give you pricing or tell you its service fees at the end of the quote process. I find this lack of transparency annoying, particularly as you can’t click “buy” online. To get pricing and other information, you have to talk to someone on the phone.
Select will text, call, and email after you apply for a quote, sometimes multiple times a day. While most representatives I’ve spoken with were friendly, some became angry that I didn’t purchase a policy or impatient when I asked questions. Select’s website and customer service feel very basic.
It’s clear from online reviews that many customers didn’t understand coverage limits when they signed up for a policy with Select. Multiple complaints say that the company didn’t cover 100% of repairs or a replacement, and the customer is angry that the low coverage limit wasn’t enough to buy a new appliance. This isn’t surprising since coverage limits appear in the terms and conditions but aren’t disclosed in the quote process, nor are they in the website’s FAQs.
Given that Select’s coverage limits are quite low for the industry,
Even when the company paid out for a claim, customers thought it took too long to receive service. However, Select does have a B rating on the Better Business Bureau and a decent score of 3.8 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot. My advice? Ask yourself if those coverage limits would have paid for any recent repairs you’ve had to do before you sign up. If not, look at other providers.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | B / 1.39 out of 5 stars | 2,110 reviews |
| Trustpilot | 3.8 / 5 stars | 4,818 |
| 3.8 / 5 stars | 19,840 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
When you need service, Select says that it will contact a technician within 24–48 hours after you place a claim. This doesn’t mean that a service technician will show up at your house with their tool belt or that somebody will even make an appointment. It only means Select will have contacted somebody.
Not only do several competitors have a shorter response window, but they also tie their promised response time to an actual appointment and service technician at your door. Some of Select’s online reviews mention that it took over a week, or several weeks, for them to receive service. While it’s easy to submit a claim through the online customer service portal or over the phone, you could be waiting a while to have the problem resolved.
Select Home Warranty is available nationwide and can be found online or contacted by phone.
Elite Home Warranty
4.3
Our Rating
Elite Home Warranty works hard to keep its customers satisfied. In just four years in business, it has great online reviews and ratings. After you apply for a quote, they don’t blow up your phone, and they’re accessible through multiple service channels when you need to file a claim.
Customer service representatives have always been pleasant. When I called on the weekends, the representative couldn’t give me a quote, but someone called back within 15 minutes with the information I needed.
Repairs come with a 90-day workmanship guarantee on parts, labor, and installation. Parts are what goes into an appliance; the labor may be to fix something, and installation could be putting in a new appliance or attaching something to the wall. Elite is the only home warranty company that includes installation in its workmanship guarantee. Also, higher coverage limits protect homeowners with luxury appliances.
Elite doesn’t show list prices on their website, nor do they provide quotes or allow you to purchase. My secret shopping revealed that some add-ons are more expensive than what competitors offer. Additional coverage for a sump pump costs $8.33 per month vs. Select Home Warranty’s cost of $3.33. However, it was less than Liberty Home Guard’s $8.99 per month price. Septic system coverage costs $10.83 per month, which is more expensive than Select Home Warranty.
To get the highest amount of coverage for luxury appliances, you have to buy the “premium appliance” add-on. However, it does increase your coverage limits per term to $6,000 for refrigerators, ovens to $4,000, dishwashers to $3,000, and microwaves to $1,000.
Unlike competitors, Liberty Home Guard and Select Home Warranty, service fees for weekend emergencies cost more. The standard $70 fee for a service call rises to $150 after business hours, including weekends and holidays.
Elite Home Warranty provides homeowners with great customer service, high coverage limits, and a parts, labor, and installation warranty — a rarity in their industry. It’s a top pick for homeowners with expensive appliances who also want great customer service and high satisfaction rates.
Elite’s warranty plans are similar to those of other home warranty providers. You can buy a systems-only plan, an appliance-only plan, or choose the most comprehensive plan (Elite Complete).
The Elite Appliance plan covers your refrigerator but also includes your ice maker and water dispenser. Many companies exclude these components or only offer them for an additional charge. It protects other home appliances such as your dishwasher, garbage disposal, range/oven/cooktop, clothes washer, clothes dryer, built-in microwave, and even includes ceiling fans.
If you bought warranties or other insurance with your appliances, consider purchasing the Elite Systems plan. It covers items such as your air conditioning, heating, plumbing, electrical, water heater, and garage door opener. It also covers plumbing stoppages and plumbing fixtures (like your faucet). Again, other companies either don’t cover these items or charge you extra for them.
Elite has higher coverage limits than industry standards, which usually max out between $2,000 to $3,000. Plans protect appliances up to $6,000 and systems up to $10,000. These higher caps provide the most protection I’ve seen among home warranty companies. For example, American Home Shield only covers up to $5,000 for HVAC coverage.
However, if you look at the service agreement for Massachusetts and other states, you’ll find many restrictions. Replacement coverage doesn’t kick in until 90 days for all of its plans. Before the 90-day period expires, the company will only pay $300 for repair costs and parts. Also, Elite caps protection for water heaters and other maintenance at $500 if a service technician deems that you need the repair due to neglect or lack of maintenance.
While I did my secret shopping, a customer service representative offered $150 off as an incentive to get started.
| Plan | Monthly Cost | Service Fee | Available Discounts |
| Elite Appliance | $34.99 | $70 | $150 sign-up, 30-day free trial online and over the phone. |
| Elite Systems | $49.99 | $70 | $150 sign-up, 30-day free trial online and over the phone. |
| Elite Complete | $59.99 | $70 | $150 sign-up, 30-day free trial online and over the phone. |
Editor’s Note: The cost data mentioned in this article was sourced for a single-family, two-bedroom home under 5,000 square feet in Allston, MA. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.
Available Add-Ons
With Elite Home Warranty, homeowners have almost as many optional add-ons as with Liberty Home Guard, but often for cheaper prices. Choose from the following list which is the annual fee:
- Annual HVAC maintenance: $299.99
- Attic exhaust fan: $69.99
- Central vacuum: $49.00
- Drainage, sewer, and water service lines: $349.99
- Effluent pump: $99.99
- Ejector pump: $99.99
- Freestanding freezer: $59.99
- Freestanding Ice Makers: $59.99
- Freestanding spa equipment: $119.99
- Generator: $99.99
- Geothermal heating and cooling systems: $299.99
- Grinder pump: $99.99
- Guest house: $299.99
- Jetted hot tubs: $99.99
- Lawn sprinkler system: $99.99
- Lift pump: $99.99
- Limited patching repair: $99.99
- Pool and spa equipment: $199.99
- Pool equipment: $149.99
- Premium appliances: $249.99
- Premium benefits: $199.99
- Premium systems: $299.99
- Premium systems plus: $499.99
- Septic system: $129.99
- Sump pump: $99.99
- Swamp cooler: $149.99
- Water softeners: $99.99
- Water filtration system: $99.99
- Well pump: $99.99
- Wine cooler: $69.99
If you add Elite’s septic system coverage, you’ll get many benefits, but pay attention to what’s excluded (such as pumping, the sump pump—an additional $8.33 a month, or leach lines).
Exclusions
Elite’s service contracts have broad exclusions. Acts of God can mean everything from severe weather — like flooding if you live near a river — to the combination of extreme weather and neglected maintenance — such as a flat roof that collapses under heavy snow. This phrase and the “lack of maintenance” exclusion raise concerns for home warranty buyers. Think twice about signing up with Elite if you haven’t kept good maintenance records.
Its list of exclusions includes:
- Acts of God
- A lack of maintenance
- Commercial-grade appliances
- Cosmetic damage
- Natural disaster-related damages
- Units in a rental property
Editor’s Note: While this article highlights certain exclusions, readers should review their contracts thoroughly. The exclusions we mentioned may not be the full list, and additional exclusions may apply.
Elite’s pricing is within competitors’ ranges or is cheaper, and has remained the same when I’ve called for five different states. The Complete plan costs almost $16 less than American Home Shield’s Platinum Plan. While this is competitive, some of their add-ons are on the higher end, and homeowners could end up paying more than the standard service fee.
On weekends, holidays, and after-hours, Elite hikes its fee to $150. You’ll also pay a $150 service fee for service calls related to your septic system. In contrast, neither Liberty Home Guard nor Select Home Warranty raises fees for night and weekend service calls.
Elite’s website has almost everything you need, plus the kitchen sink. Under “sample policy” on the main page, you can find your state and read the service agreement. The fine print hides a lot, including the fact that the service fee for a septic system is $150 instead of the standard $75, so I highly recommend reading through it.
Even though customer representatives try to sell the most expensive plan first, they will gladly answer questions about the other two plans. Elite guarantees a 24- to 48-hour arrival window for any service technicians. Longer waiting periods for full coverage to begin lower Elite’s customer experience score.
Elite Home Warranty has a decent amount of reviews for a company that’s only been in business for four years. However, many of the reviews use very similar language or appear to be duplicates.
Customers overwhelmingly loved the great customer service when signing up for a plan. They also like that the company sent local technicians who quickly performed repairs. Several customers had previous experiences with other home warranty companies and thought that Elite did a better job and cost less. They appreciated that Elite often checked in with them about claims.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | A+/ 4.97 out of 5 stars | 739 reviews |
| Trustpilot | 4.7/5 stars | 60 |
| 4.8/5 stars | 146 | |
| Yelp | 4.8 /5 stars | 4 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
Elite claims process receives a lower rating due to a longer response time of up to 48 hours and the higher fees for after-hours, weekend, and holiday services. You can file a claim by phone or online. While you can pick your own repair technician, the repair must have prior authorization from Elite.
In other words, don’t call your plumber if you come home to a leaking dishwasher, and then ask Elite to reimburse the claim. You need to check with them about what your home warranty covers and get approval for the technician.
Elite Home Warranty responds to claims 24/7/365, although after-hours emergency services cost $150 instead of the $70 service fee. You can file claims over the phone or online. The company doesn’t sell home warranty plans in California, Texas, Washington, or Wisconsin.
AFC Home Warranty
4.3
Our Rating
AFC Home Club has a well-designed website with a lot of information. Under “Plans & Pricing,” AFC clearly lists what its four plans cover. You can click on an item to get more details and learn if it’s covered.
No other home warranty company operates with this high level of transparency. Often, excluded parts and components are hidden in the policy’s fine print. For example, Select Home Warranty’s agreement says it doesn’t cover the heat exchanger on your heating system, but you can’t find this information on their website.
But if you’re shopping for a home warranty plan because you need septic system coverage, think twice about AFC Home Club. Add-on coverage for a septic system costs a whopping $50 a month, which is the highest charge of all the companies on this list. Its septic system coverage includes the jet pump and sewage ejector pump but not the aerobic pump.
AFC Home Club doesn’t have any emergency or same-day services, but homeowners can call a technician to fix after-hours problems. Before having service done, however, contact AFC Home Club’s claims department to verify that the service provider is licensed and insured. When the repairs are complete, AFC can either pay the technician directly, or you can pay the tech and request a reimbursement from AFC.
Like Select Home Warranty and American Home Shield, AFC sells only a limited amount of customization coverages. The pricing for add-ons is the highest on our list of providers, too. While Choice Home Warranty charges $3.33 a month and Liberty Home Guard charges $8.99 a month for sump pump coverage, AFC’s rate is $35 a month.
Customer reviews about AFC also make me worry, particularly when they’re talking about their claims experiences. There’s a lot of confusion about coverage limits and replacement policies, which is unfortunately common in the industry. Before picking a plan and paying, read through the sample contracts available online.
AFC Home Club wants its customers to know about its plan’s coverage, exclusions, and limits. Through both pop-ups on its website and sample policies, you can find out what you’re getting for your monthly fee. If you need after-hours service, you can pick your technician and either get reimbursed or have AFC pay them directly. While its add-ons list is small, plans have variety, but add-ons cost the most of all the home warranty providers we reviewed.
With AFC Home Club, you can choose between four plans and two different service fee options: $75 or $125 per service call. If you prefer paying a higher monthly premium, you’ll receive a lower monthly service fee. If you’d rather keep your monthly expenses low, you’ll pay more when a service technician comes to your house.
The Silver plan protects nine common household appliances: your clothes washer, clothes dryer, garage door opener, oven, range, stove, cooktop, refrigerator, dishwasher, and garbage disposal.
The Gold plan includes the home appliances in the Silver plan and adds coverage for the air conditioning and heating system, electrical systems, plumbing, water heater, and ductwork. The third coverage tier, the Platinum Plan, covers 18 appliances and systems. It gives you the benefits of the Silver and Gold Plan and adds on exhaust, attic fans, ceiling fans, faucets, plumbing stoppages, an ice maker, and a built-in microwave.
AFC Home Club’s top tier, the Diamond Plan, costs approximately $35 more a month than its other plans and more than any other competitor’s plan. Its largest difference from the Platinum Plan is that it also covers electronics and exterior water and sewer lines.
Current discounts include $100 off and roof-leak coverage.
| Plan | Monthly Cost | Service Fee* | Available Discounts |
| Silver | $51.83 or $47.08 | $75 –$125 | The higher monthly price has the lower service fee, and vice versa |
| Gold | $69.67 or $64.92 | $75 – $125 | The higher monthly price has the lower service fee, and vice versa |
| Platinum | $75.67 or $70.92 | $75 – $125 | The higher monthly price has the lower service fee, and vice versa |
| Diamond | $110.25 or $105.50 | $75 – $125 | The higher monthly price has the lower service fee, and vice versa |
*If you choose the lower service fee of $75, you pay the higher monthly premium. For example, the $75.97 with the Platinum Plan pairs with the $75 service fee.
Editor’s Note: The cost data mentioned in this article was sourced for a single-family, two-bedroom home under 5,000 square feet in Allston, MA. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.
Available Add-Ons
AFC prices its add-on coverage much higher than competitors. Monthly coverage for a sump pump is the most expensive on this list, and the septic system coverage is almost not worth the price. However, since you might not have the option of going with some of the other companies, we’re still reviewing AFC Home Club. This list of optional coverages includes:
- Built-in microwave: $50/month
- Central vacuum: $25/month
- Double oven: $25/month
- Electronics coverage (price depends on your specific electronics)
- Hot water dispenser: $25/month
- Ice maker: $25/month
- In-ground pool and spa: $150/month
- Roof leak (free, worth $25/month)
- Septic system: $50/month
- Stand-alone freezer: $25/month
- Sump pump: $35/month
- Well pump: $50/month
Exclusions
All AFC Home Club’s plans have these exclusions:
- Appliances and systems not properly maintained
- Code violations
- Crane rentals that you need to move appliances or systems
- Geothermal heating systems
- Haul-away services
- Light fixtures
Editor’s Note: While this article highlights certain exclusions, we encourage readers to review their contracts because the exclusions we listed are not exhaustive, and additional exclusions may apply.
The company requests an annual maintenance log from a licensed technician before it approves service requests for HVAC systems. If a technician recommended a repair on a prior visit that you choose not to have done, you will forfeit the coverage for the item.
The Diamond Plan may be one of the most expensive plans out there, but it does include coverage for exterior water and sewer lines. It’s also a great choice for audiophiles who’ve spent a fortune on high-end electronics and didn’t buy manufacturer warranties. Pricing for its other plans is comparable to competitors, and it offers discounts, but its high cost for add-ons drops its rating lower.
Service fees range from $75, which is quite low, to $125, on the higher end. It’s nice that you can play around with service fees and monthly premiums to best fit your budget.
AFC’s website is the best on this list. It has sample contracts, and the coverage under each plan is easy to find, and its comprehensive FAQs dive in-depth. Real-life customer service has always been a pleasant experience, with a tone that’s more chatty than being on a sales call.
AFC Home Club doesn’t put a time limit on its service guarantee. It’s the only company on this list that guarantees service for the life of the plan. As long as you continue coverage, you don’t have to worry about paying a service fee again for any past repairs.
AFC Home Club has a B rating from the BBB, 3.0 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, and 3.7 out of 5 stars on Google. While not as strong as Elite Home Warranty’s ratings, they’re still respectable. The company has been in business since 2009, which means they have a history of servicing claims and keeping customers happy.
The majority of negative reviews said the company denied claims that the homeowner thought were valid, that the service technician couldn’t complete the job, or that the contract’s fine print hid important relevant information.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | B / 2.54 out of 5 stars | 167 |
| Trustpilot | 3.0 out of 5 stars | 24 |
| 3.7 | 1,594 | |
| Yelp | 1.9 | 334 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
Per the service agreement, AFC says a technician will contact you to make an appointment within 24 to 48 hours of filing a claim. You can file claims online or by phone. AFC Home Club pays the service provider unless you pick a technician to perform an emergency or after-hours repair.
Online reviewers reported positive experiences with claims and said that AFC Home Club regularly updated them on the claims status and the technician’s progress. But, since AFC doesn’t offer emergency or after-hours services through its own network, it does receive a lower score. Some customers may not like having to track down a technician on their own.
AFC Home Club doesn’t sell plans in California or Hawaii but operates in the remaining 48 states. Company representatives can answer questions or help with claims online or on the phone.
First American Home Warranty
4.3
Our Rating
First American has excellent coverage limits for appliances. Under the Starter and Essential plan, you’ll have coverage up to $3,500 for your dishwasher, refrigerator, built-in microwave oven, oven, range, cooktop, and kitchen range hood. The Essential Plan adds coverage up to $3,500 for your clothes washer and dryer and trash compactor. This coverage increases to $7,000 with the Premium plan.
Its septic tank pumping/system add-on covers far more than competitors. For only $7.08 a month, you get coverage for a one-time pumping, the jet pump, aerobic pump, sewage ejector pump, and septic tank line from the house to the tank. Elite Home Warranty excludes the sewage ejector pump, Select Home Warranty won’t pump the tank, and Liberty Home Guard covers pumping and the ejector pump separately. First American’s septic system add-on gives you the most coverage out of all its competitors.
First American Home Warranty doesn’t make sample contracts for homeowners available online. Everything on their website is generic and non-specific in terms of coverage limits, exclusions, or service in your area. Only when you submit all your information for a quote will you attain concrete details on pricing, service fees, a sample contract, and coverage limits.
If you call the customer service number on the weekends, they cannot answer any questions. All they can do is tell you to call back Monday through Friday.
First American’s pricing is reasonable, as is the monthly fee to add on septic system coverage, and you have your choice of three service fees.
First American sells three plans, which increase the amount of coverage at each level. Every appliance included in Starter and Essential has a coverage limit of $3,500. If you select Premium, this coverage limit increases to $7,000. Only Elite Home Warranty comes close to this, with a $7,000 coverage limit on HVAC.
Other items, such as plumbing and home systems, have coverage limits of $500. With Premium, coverage limits increase by $1,000 per item to a total coverage of $1,500. You can only see coverage limits by item once you apply for a quote and reach the screen with plans and pricing. They are shown in pop-up boxes for each item and are quite confusing.
Sometimes, the item will list a coverage limit; other times, it will simply have a check under the plan to show that it’s covered. If you’re particularly concerned about a system’s coverage, your best plan is to ask the customer service representative when they call.
The Starter plan, First American’s entry-level plan, offers protection for more items than many competitors include in their basic plans. It covers your dishwasher, refrigerator, kitchen range hood, built-in microwave oven, oven/range/cooktop, plumbing, plumbing stoppages, toilet tanks, bowls, and mechanisms, electrical system, ductwork, heating, and refrigerant. However, it doesn’t include your clothes washer and dryer, your water heater, or air conditioning.
With the Essential Plan, you get coverage for everything in the Starter plan plus your water heater, clothes washer and dryer, trash compactor, fans (attic, exhaust, ceiling, whole-house), garage door opener, air conditioning, and a mini-split ductless system. First American is the only home warranty provider that protects a mini-split system.
The Premium Plan bumps up coverage another notch, adding on to everything in the Essential Plan with hose bibbs, install ground-level cleanout, instant hot water dispenser, shower head and shower arm, garage door springs, hinges, transmitters, central vacuum system, registers, grills, filters, and window a/c units.
The Essential and Premium plans both include additional items and limits I haven’t seen offered by any competitor. These include concrete encasement, HVAC lifting equipment, improper installations/modifications, permits and code violations, refrigerant recapture, reclaim, and disposal. Concrete encasement would cover up to $500 under the Essential Plan and up to $1,000 under the Premium Plan for diagnosis, access, repair, or replacement of items located in or under concrete.
Unlike any competitor, First American allows you to choose from three service fee options instead of just two. Picking a cheaper service fee increases your monthly cost, while a more expensive service fee lowers it.
| Plan | Monthly Cost | Service Fee* | Available Discounts |
| Starter Plan | $72, $62, $57 | $75, $100, $125 | None on the website |
| Essential Plan | $82, $72, $67 | $75, $100, $125 | None on the website |
| Premier Plan | $97, $87, $82 | $75, $100, $125 | None on the website |
*If you choose the lower service fee of $75, you pay the higher monthly premium. For example, the $97.00 with the Premier Plan pairs with the $75 service fee.
Editor’s Note: The cost data mentioned in this article was sourced for a single-family, two-bedroom home under 5,000 square feet in Seattle, WA. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.
Available Add-Ons
First American doesn’t have many available add-ons, but they are reasonably priced and often cheaper than competitors. For example, septic tank pumping is $7.08 a month, but with AFC Home Club, it’s $50 a month. Optional coverage with every plan includes:
- Pool/spa equipment – $20.83
- Well pump – $7.08
- Additional refrigeration – $4.17
- Limited roof leak – $8.33
- Septic tank pumping/system – $7.08
- Water softener/reverse osmosis system – $7.08
- HVAC tune-up – $2.08/month
Exclusions
All of First American’s plans have the following exclusions:
- Crane rentals needed to move appliances or systems
- Geothermal heating systems
- Haul-away services
- Light fixtures
- Code violations
- Appliances and systems not properly maintained
Editor’s Note: While this article highlights certain exclusions, it is imperative for readers to review their contracts as the mentioned exclusions are not exhaustive, and additional exclusions may apply.
Per First American’s contract, items must be in safe working order on the contract’s start date. The Company will not reimburse any services that don’t have pre-approval.
First American charges reasonable prices for its plans and a service fee that’s on the lower end of the industry range. Its Basic Plan is only $30 a month, and its comprehensive plan is $49.58, which is cheaper than Select Home Warranty and American Home Shield’s comparable plans.
Pricing for add-ons ranges from just $2.92 a month to $16.67 a month, fairly cheap depending upon which add-on you choose. Septic coverage is $75 a year or only $6.25 a month, among the most affordable on this list. However, the sewage ejector pump isn’t included with septic coverage; it’s an extra $35 a year or $2.92/month.
There’s a 30-day waiting period for coverage to begin. Service call fees can be as low as only $75 in Washington, which is lower than Liberty Home Guard and American Home Shield’s highest $125 fee.
First American’s sample contract only has a 30-day workmanship guarantee, shorter than both Select Home Warranty and Liberty Home Guard. If the same item fails 31 days after the service technician came out the first time, you’ll pay an additional fee.
First American’s customers have positive things to say about the company. They praise the helpfulness of technicians who came out on service calls. Some of them are happy they received replacement appliances within a week of a technician determining an old freezer couldn’t be fixed. Customers consistently say that the customer service was professional.
Negative reviews focused on issues with the service professionals sent for repairs, from their competency to their professionalism. Some said that service technicians didn’t show up for scheduled appointments or showed up at 6:30 a.m. From reviews, it’s clear that opinions of First American vary greatly depending on the service technician.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | B/ 1.77/5 stars | 1,888 reviews |
| Trustpilot | 4.1 out of 5 stars | 13,727 |
| 4.0/ 5 stars | 1,707 | |
| Yelp | 1.1 / 5 stars | 1,908 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
Customers can either call to place a claim or sign into their online portal. Before performing any repairs, First American confirms that the item has coverage. After that, service providers contact you to schedule an appointment. The contract states that services will commence within 48 hours of filing a claim, but that doesn’t mean the service technician will be at your house or the repair will be completed.
First American ranks lower for its availability. It’s only available in 35 states and excludes Alaska, Hawaii, Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin.
Calculate the Cost of a Septic System Home Warranty
Today’s Homeowner’s home warranty cost calculator could give you an idea of what a septic system home warranty costs in your area. Try it before you call companies.
| 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 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Need a Home Warranty for Septic Systems?
Whether it’s a backed-up system or a failed sewage ejector pump, a problem with your septic system isn’t just smelly — it’s expensive to fix. Homeowners with septic systems might want the peace of mind of knowing they can get repairs done quickly and for a cheap service fee.
How Much Does a Home Warranty Cost for Septic Systems?
The average cost of a home warranty is $58.25. The cost for the septic system add-on ranges from $5.83 to $50 a month.
How To Save Money When Shopping for Home Warranties for Septic Systems?
If you want to keep your monthly costs low, look at home warranty providers that offer options for balancing service fees with monthly fees. Many companies, such as First American, give homeowners the option of paying a higher service fee if they want to spend less monthly. Compare monthly and service fees to find the cheapest home warranty.
Is a Home Warranty Worth It for Septic Systems?
A home warranty is worth it because it can save you a lot of money. The average cost of a septic tank repair is between $600 to $3,000. Replacing a pump could cost between $500 to $1,500. With one repair, you could recoup all your monthly and service fees, as well as more.
Other Warranty Resources for Homeowners
- Best Home Warranty Companies
- Best Home Warranty Companies for Seniors
- Best Home Warranty for Garage Doors
- Best Home Warranty Companies for Water Heaters
- Best Home Warranty Companies for Heat Pumps
- Best Mobile Home Warranty Companies
- Best Home Warranty Companies for a Rental Property
- Best Home Warranty Companies for Electrical Systems
- Best Home Appliance Insurance Companies
- Best Home Warranty Companies for Pre-Existing Conditions
- Best Home Warranties With No Deductible
- Best Home Warranty Companies for Luxury Homes
- Best Pool Warranty Companies
- Best Home Warranty Companies for Duplexes
- Best Home Warranty Companies for HVAC Coverage
- Best Home Warranty Companies for Plumbing
- Best Home Warranty for Sellers
- Best Home Warranty Companies for Sewer Lines
- Best Home Warranty Companies for Roof Coverage
- Best Home Warranty Companies for High-End Appliances
- Best Home Warranty Companies For Wells
- Best Home Warranty Companies for Plumbing
- Best Options for a Dishwasher Warranty
