Expert Advice On Improving Your Home

7 Best Home Warranty Companies in Dubuque, IA

Written By David Cusick

Last Updated February 2024

Buying a home is a big step for many people, but maintaining it can be expensive over time, especially if your home in Dubuque is on the older side. A home warranty policy can help protect homeowners by covering major repairs and replacements on your home’s most important systems and appliances.

The home warranty market has many providers — all with different plans — so the Today's Homeowner team has done the research to help you find the best home warranty companies in Dubuque.

Our Recommended Providers

Best for Customization
4.5/5
  • Holds high ratings among customer service reviews
  • Covers repairs with a 60-day workmanship guarantee
  • Offers an extensive list of 30+ add-on coverages
Best For First Time Homeowners
4.2/5
  • The oldest and most trusted company in the industry
  • Allows customers to build their own plans
  • Ability to choose the service fee you want to pay
Best Claims Acceptance
4.1/5
  • Comprehensive coverage
  • Decent coverage caps
  • No exclusions for older homes

The 7 Best Home Warranty Companies in Dubuque

Liberty Home Guard

Very highly rated among customer service reviews

Covers repairs with a 60-day workmanship guarantee

Extensive list of 20+ add-on coverages

Easy claims process

Won’t cover known or unknown pre-existing conditions

Liberty Home Guard offers the most trustworthy home warranty in Dubuque. Liberty has been on the market for about 6 years, making it a well-respected company in the industry. Liberty has 3 simple plans, making the selection process quick and easy. Liberty offers a seamless complaint process and guaranteed service professionalism upon every repair visit. Plus, it also has a 60-day workmanship guarantee and some of the best customer service in the industry.

Liberty Home Guard has 3 plans that provide a mix of system and appliance coverage. Service fees from Liberty are an affordable $75. The coverage caps are also generally about $3,000 at the maximum.

To receive a free quote from Liberty Home Guard, fill out this online form or give them a call at 866-451-2281. Read our detailed review of Liberty Home Guard to learn more.

Appliance Guard

Systems Guard

Total Home Guard

Service fee: $75.00 Monthly cost: $69.99
Items covered: Ceiling Fan , Cooktop exhaust fan , Disposal , Dishwasher , Dryer , Garage door , Microwave , Oven , Refrigerator , Refrigerator ice maker , Washer Add-on items: Pool , Saltwater pool , Spa , TV , PC , Pump , Generator , Free-standing ice maker , Septic tank pumping , Roof leaks , Pests , Water softener , Well pump , Wine refrigerator , Septic , Sprinkler , Locksmith , Trash compactor , Sump pump , Vacuum , Stand-alone freezer , Water dispenser
Service fee: $75.00 Monthly cost: $74.99
Items covered: Air Conditioner , Bath exhaust fan , Ductwork , Electrical , Heating system , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Toilet , Water heater Add-on items: Pool , Saltwater pool , Spa , TV , PC , Pump , Generator , Free-standing ice maker , Septic tank pumping , Roof leaks , Pests , Water softener , Well pump , Wine refrigerator , Septic , Sprinkler , Locksmith , Trash compactor , Sump pump , Vacuum , Stand-alone freezer , Water dispenser
Service fee: $75.00 Monthly cost: $79.99
Items covered: Ceiling Fan , Cooktop exhaust fan , Disposal , Dishwasher , Dryer , Garage door , Microwave , Oven , Refrigerator , Refrigerator ice maker , Washer , Air Conditioner , Bath exhaust fan , Ductwork , Electrical , Heating system , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Toilet , Water heater Add-on items: Pool , Saltwater pool , Spa , TV , PC , Pump , Generator , Free-standing ice maker , Septic tank pumping , Roof leaks , Pests , Water softener , Well pump , Wine refrigerator , Septic , Sprinkler , Locksmith , Trash compactor , Sump pump , Vacuum , Stand-alone freezer , Water dispenser

Choice Home Warranty

Over 10 years of experience

24/7 customer service team

Home inspections aren’t required

90-day repair guarantee

Plans aren’t customizable

Customers can’t choose their own contractor

Not available in washington

Choice Home Warranty offers the best overall home warranty in Dubuque. Choice has been on the market for about 15 years, making it a well-respected company in the industry. Choice has 2 simple plans, making the selection process quick and easy. Choice offers very high coverage caps and simple-to-understand service contracts. Plus, it also has great customer service, professional contractors, and lower out-of-pocket costs compared to other home warranties.

Choice Home Warranty has 2 plans that provide a mix of system and appliance coverage. Service fees from Choice are an affordable $85. The coverage caps are also generally about $3,000 at the maximum.

To receive a free quote from Choice Home Warranty, fill out this online form or give them a call at 929-400-6164. Read our detailed review of Choice Home Warranty to learn more.

Basic Plan

Total Plan

Service fee: $85.00 Monthly cost: $45.00
Items covered: Ceiling fan , Cooktop exhaust , Dishwasher , Disposal , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door opener , Heating system , Oven , Microwave , Plumbing system , Toilet , Water heater Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Septic , Well pump , Roof leaking , Septic tank , Sump pump , Vacuum , Stand-alone freezer
Service fee: $85.00 Monthly cost: $53.33
Items covered: Ceiling fan , Cooktop exhaust , Dishwasher , Disposal , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door opener , Heating system , Oven , Microwave , Plumbing system , Toilet , Water heater , AC , Washer , Dryer , Refrigerator Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Septic , Well pump , Roof leaking , Septic tank , Sump pump , Vacuum , Stand-alone freezer

Select Home Warranty

Low service fees compared to other home warranty providers

Two months of free coverage

Has an appliance-only, systems-only, and combo plan option

90-day repair guarantee

Has a $75 cancellation fee

Low coverage caps

Select Home Warranty offers the most cost-effective home warranty in Dubuque. Select has been on the market for about 11 years, making it a well-respected company in the industry. Select has 3 simple plans, making the selection process quick and easy. Select offers a highly affordable service fee and free roof coverage upon purchase of a policy plan. Plus, it also has an extensive network of highly trained professionals all over the country who are experts in home maintenance.

Select Home Warranty has 3 plans that provide a mix of system and appliance coverage. Service fees from Select are a reasonable $60. The coverage caps are also generally about $2,000 at the maximum.

To receive a free quote from Select Home Warranty, fill out this online form or give them a call at 888-370-3953. Read our detailed review of Select Home Warranty to learn more.

Bronze Care Plan

Gold Care Plan

Platinum Care Plan

Service fee: $60.00 Monthly cost: $57.67
Items covered: Disposal , Dishwasher , Dryer , Microwave , Oven , Refrigerator , Washer Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Septic , Sprinkler , Stand-alone freezer , Vacuum , Well pump , Sump pump , Roof leaks
Service fee: $60.00 Monthly cost: $57.67
Items covered: Air Conditioner , Ductwork , Electrical , Heating system , Plumbing , Water heater Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Septic , Sprinkler , Stand-alone freezer , Vacuum , Well pump , Sump pump , Roof leaks
Service fee: $60.00 Monthly cost: $62.08
Items covered: Disposal , Dishwasher , Dryer , Microwave , Oven , Refrigerator , Washer , Air conditioner , Ductwork , Electrical , Heating system , Plumbing , Water heater , Ceiling fan , Garage door , Plumbing stoppages Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Septic , Sprinkler , Stand-alone freezer , Vacuum , Well pump , Sump pump , Roof leaks

American Home Shield

The oldest and most trusted company in the industry

Allows customers to build their own plans

Ability to choose the service fee you want to pay

Broad coverage on up to 33 appliances and systems

Doesn’t let customers choose their own technician

Doesn’t provide coverage in alaska

American Home Shield offers the most customizable home warranty in Dubuque. AHS has been on the market for about 26 years, making it a well-respected company in the industry. AHS has 3 simple plans, making the selection process quick and easy. AHS offers the ability to customize your plan with the coverages that work specifically for your home. Plus, it also has a remarkably low claim denial rate in comparison to other home warranty companies.

American Home Shield has 3 plans that provide a mix of system and appliance coverage. Service fees from AHS are customizable and range from $75 to $125. The coverage caps are also generally about $2,500 at the maximum.

To receive a free quote from American Home Shield, fill out this online form or give them a call at 888-365-2839. Read our detailed review of American Home Shield to learn more.

ShieldSilver

ShieldGold

ShieldPlatinum

Service fee: $75.00 - $125.00 Monthly cost: $29.27 - $44.27
Items covered: Air Conditioner , Alarm , Attic fans , Bath exhaust fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust , Disposal , Doorbell , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door , Heating system , Locksmith , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Toilet , Water dispenser , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Pool , Spa , PC , TV , Septic , Well pump
Service fee: $75.00 - $125.00 Monthly cost: $39.27 - $54.27
Items covered: Air conditioner , Alarm , Attic fans , Bath exhaust fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust , Dishwasher , Doorbell , Dryer , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door , Heating system , Microwave , Oven , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Refrigerator , Toilet , Trash compactor , Washer , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Pool , Spa , PC , TV , Septic , Well pump
Service fee: $75.00 - $125.00 Monthly cost: $59.27 - $74.27
Items covered: Air conditioner , Alarm , Attic fans , Bath exhaust fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust , Dishwasher , Disposal , Doorbell , Dryer , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door , Heating system , Locksmith , Microwave , Oven , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Refrigerator , Roof leaks , Toilet , Trash compactor , Washer , Water dispenser , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Pool , Spa , PC , TV , Septic , Well pump

First American Home Warranty

Established company with a bbb accreditation

Doesn’t have a coverage cap on heating, cooling, or ductwork

24/7 service calls available

Offers replacement of some covered items that are too damaged to repair

Doesn’t let customers choose their own contractor

According to some customer reviews, the technical jargon in contracts is confusing

First American Home Warranty offers the best home warranty for appliance coverage in Dubuque. First American has been on the market for about 39 years, making it a well-respected company in the industry. First American has 2 simple plans, making the selection process quick and easy. First American offers very affordable and comprehensive appliance coverage. Plus, it also has a unique add-on alongside common ones called the First Class Upgrade, which covers fees associated with the use of lifting equipment, up to $250 per local building permits, haul away services, and appliances and systems that have been insufficiently installed or modified.

First American Home Warranty has 2 plans that provide a mix of system and appliance coverage. Service fees from First American are a reasonable $85. The coverage caps are also generally about $1,500 at the maximum.

To receive a free quote from First American Home Warranty, fill out this online form or give them a call at 833-204-7164. Read our detailed review of First American Home Warranty to learn more.

Basic Plan

Premier Plan

Service fee: $85.00 Monthly cost: $38.00
Items covered: Attic fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust fan , Dishwasher , Disposal , Dryer , Microwave , Oven , Refrigerator , Trash compactor , Washer , Water dispenser Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Air conditioner , Septic tank , Septic , Well pump , First-class upgrade
Service fee: $85.00 Monthly cost: $48.50
Items covered: Attic fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust fan , Dishwasher , Disposal , Dryer , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door , Heating system , Microwave , Oven , Plumbing system , Plumbing stoppages , Refrigerator , Toilet , Trash compactor , Vacuum , Water heater , Washer , Water dispenser Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Air conditioner , Septic tank , Septic , Well pump , First-class upgrade

Cinch Home Services

Offers home insurance deductible of $500

Extra long 180-day workmanship guarantee

Offers free cancellation in the first 30 days

Charges high service fees of $75-$150

Doesn’t allow customers to choose their own technician

Isn’t available in hawaii or alaska

Cinch Home Services offers the home warranty with the best workmanship guarantee in Dubuque. Cinch has been on the market for about 44 years, making it a well-respected company in the industry. Cinch has 3 simple plans, making the selection process quick and easy. Cinch offers a 180-day workmanship guarantee that ensures your home systems and appliance repairs will be professionally done. Plus, it also has a broad range of coverage options that will give homeowners peace of mind.

Cinch Home Services has 3 plans that provide a mix of system and appliance coverage. Service fees from Cinch are customizable and range from $75 to $150. The coverage caps are also generally about $1,000-$2,000 at the maximum.

To receive a free quote from Cinch Home Services, fill out this online form or give them a call at 877-589-0505. Read our detailed review of Cinch Home Services to learn more.

Appliances Plan

Built-in Systems Plan

Complete Home Plan

Service fee: $75.00 - $150.00 Monthly cost: $34.99 - $50.99
Items covered: Cooktop exhaust fan , Dishwasher , Dryer , Food center , Free-standing ice maker , Microwave , Oven , Refrigerator , Refrigerator ice maker , Trash compactor , Washer Add-on items: Pool , Septic , Well pump
Service fee: $75.00 - $150.00 Monthly cost: $39.99 - $57.99
Items covered: Air conditioner , Smoke alarm , Attic fans , Bath exhaust fans , Ceiling fans , Disposal , Doorbell , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door , Heating system , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Septic tank pumping , Spa , Sump pump , Toilet , Vacuum , Water dispenser , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Pool , Septic , Well pump
Service fee: $75.00 - $150.00 Monthly cost: $49.99 - $67.99
Items covered: Air conditioner , Alarm , Attic fans , Bath exhaust fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust , Dishwasher , Disposal , Doorbell , Dryer , Ductwork , Electrical , Food center , Free-standing ice maker , Garage door , Heating system , Microwave , Oven , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Refrigerator , Refrigerator ice maker , Septic tank pumping , Spa , Sump pump , Toilet , Trash compactor , Vacuum , Washer , Water dispenser , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Pool , Septic , Well pump

The Home Service Club

Policy starts in ten days

24/7 customer service support

Generous coverage caps on important systems and appliances

30-labor guarantee and 90-day parts guarantee

Offers utility and home service outside line coverage

Higher service fee of $95

Not accredited by the better business bureau (bbb)

Only 2 plan options

The Home Service Club offers the best home warranty with the quickest service in Dubuque. HSC has been on the market for about 15 years, making it a well-respected company in the industry. HSC has 2 simple plans, making the selection process quick and easy. HSC offers quick coverage where the home warranty goes into effect just ten days after you pay for the plan, instead of the typical 30 days. Plus, it also has customer service representatives available 24/7, as well as a 30-day labor guarantee and a 90-day parts guarantee.

The Home Service Club has 2 plans that provide a mix of system and appliance coverage. Service fees from HSC are customizable and range from $65 to $90. The coverage caps are also generally about $2,000 at the maximum.

To receive a free quote from The Home Service Club, fill out this online form or give them a call at 800-750-9443. Read our detailed review of The Home Service Club to learn more.

Standard Coverage Plan

Comprehensive Coverage Plan

Service fee: $60.00 - $95.00 Monthly cost: $50.40
Items covered: Air conditioner , Ceiling fan , Dishwasher , Garbage disposal , Dryer , Electrical system , Food center , Free-standing ice maker , Garage door opener , Heating system , Microwave , Oven , Plumbing , Refrigerator , Trash compactor , Central vacuum , Washer , Water heater Add-on items: Utilities and home service line coverage (outside gas line, outside water line, outside sewer line, sprinkler system , Pool , Spa , Water softener , Roof leaks , Well pump , Pump , Stand-alone freezer
Service fee: $60.00 - $95.00 Monthly cost: $62.90
Items covered: Air conditioner , Alarm wiring , Attic fans , Ceiling fan , Dishwasher , Garbage disposal , Doorbell , Dryer , Ductwork , Electrical system , Food center , Free-standing ice maker , Garage door opener , Heating system , Microwave , Oven , Pest control , Phone , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Refrigerator , Sump pump , Toilet , Trash compactor , Central vacuum , Washer , Water dispenser , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Utilities and home service line coverage (outside gas line, outside water line, outside sewer line, sprinkler system , Pool , Spa , Water softener , Roof leaks , Well pump , Pump , Stand-alone freezer
Today's Homeowner Ranking Methodology

Today's Homeowner looks at dozens of datapoints on home warranty companies to come up with our data-driven rankings. It's not possible for a company to pay for preferential treatment in our rankings. We look at the following key factors in determining who should top our list:

  • Company Experience
  • Real User Reviews
  • Company Reputation
  • Accreditations and Licenses
  • Service Area
  • Customer Service
Have questions about our methodology or company ratings? Reach out to FindAPro@TodaysHomeowner.com.

Cost of Common Home Repairs in Dubuque

Home Appliance Repair Cost
Air Conditioner $5,878
Heating $3,918
Electrical $588
Toilets $490
Washer/Dryer $784
Plumbing $588
Oven $1,567
Fridge $588

How Does a Home Warranty Work?

A home warranty is a protection policy that helps Dubuque homeowners in reducing the expenses of appliance and system repairs. The plans provide coverage to replace or fix appliances and systems that break down due to normal wear and tear.

When something stops working, you submit a claim and pay a service fee. The home warranty provider then arranges a contractor to handle the replacement or repair. Homeowners may have out-of-pocket costs only if the repair or replacement costs exceed the item's coverage limit. A home warranty provides peace of mind for homeowners by helping them prevent expensive emergency repairs. They're particularly valuable for those who live in older homes or ones with aging systems. More modern builds with modern appliances probably don’t require a home warranty.

What Does a Home Warranty Cover?

Home warranties help protect your home systems and appliances. Common appliances covered under a home warranty include dryers, dishwashers, microwaves, refrigerators, garbage disposals, washers, and others. Covered systems include plumbing, air conditioning, heating, and electrical. Many home warranty plans also offer add-on coverage options for septic systems, locksmiths, central vacuums, and even roof leaks. Dubuque homeowners should know that most home warranty policies have a 30-day waiting period before they can be used to cover repairs. Additionally, policies typically only cover repairs and replacements that result from normal wear and tear. Home warranties don't cover things like pre-existing conditions, natural disasters, cosmetic issues, or improper use of a system or appliance. It's important to keep up with preventative maintenance to help ensure that your next repair or replacement will be covered by the policy.

Key Home Warranty Terms to Know

Here are some essential home warranty words to understand before signing a contract:

  • Coverage limits: How much money your warranty provider will pay for specific repairs or replacements. Check limits on repairs for things like air conditioning units, roof leaks, and appliances.
  • Endorsements: Optional add-ons that expand coverage for additional systems like pools, septic, well pumps, and more. Endorsements typically cost an additional fee.
  • Trade call fee: An additional fee that's sometimes required to appliance-related claims.
  • Deductible: The amount you pay toward a covered repair before the warranty covers the rest. Some plans have per-claim or yearly deductibles.
  • Service fee: The out-of-pocket cost per claim that you pay for contractor access and repair coverage.
  • Contract rate: A pre-negotiated rate that your home warranty provider has worked out with contractors. This rate is typically less than what you would pay retail.
  • Claim approval: The process providers use to determine whether a requested repair or replacement is covered under a home warranty plan.
Keeping these terms and key points in mind will help you understand home warranty contracts and pricing, so you can pick the right plan and protect your most important home systems. Discuss coverage details with potential providers when getting a quote, so you can avoid surprise fees.

Key Factors in Choosing a Home Warranty Company

There are several key factors to consider when choosing a home warranty provider:

Coverage Options

Home warranty coverage varies, although most plans include protection for electrical, plumbing, heating, AC, and appliances. More comprehensive options may also include other things such as pools, roof leaks, spas, and well pumps. Look for companies with varied coverage options, including upgraded plans. This helps you customize your plan to your home's needs.

Service Fees

You'll pay a repair fee, normally ranging from $60–100 for each claim filed with your home warranty provider. These fees to accumulate quickly with each claim, so you may seek out companies advertising more affordable fees to optimize savings on each repair claim. Certain providers may waive deductibles when a homeowner submits no claims in a defined period.

Reputation

A home warranty company's reputation can give you insight into things such as repair timeliness, approval rates, contractor quality, and customer satisfaction. Use review platforms such as TrustPilot, Google Reviews, or the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to research companies. Positive ratings and feedback indicate a company known for exceptional service.

Contractor Network

Home warranty companies have networks of local professionals to handle repairs in your area. Reach out to potential providers to learn how many repair technicians they have in Dubuque and get an idea for how quickly your repairs could take place in an emergency situation. Wider networks raise the likelihood of getting qualified contractors to quickly service your home.

Added Benefits

Certain home warranty providers offer perks such as protection for smart home devices, energy-efficient upgrades, and discounts on maintenance. These bonuses can provide extra value beyond repair coverage. Extra perks enhance your home and maximize your home warranty.

Is a Home Warranty Worth it in Dubuque?


Benefits of a Home Warranty

Since temperatures in Dubuque can be quite cold in the winter, the weather can put a lot of strain on your HVAC system. Getting a home warranty plan can help homeowners save money if one of these systems or appliances breaks unexpectedly.

Not only can a home warranty save you money on repairs and replacements, it saves you time as well. Instead of needing to vet service technicians by yourself, home warranty companies do the work for you and send pre-screened technicians right to your door when you need them. Another added benefit of having home warranty coverage is that it can increase your home’s property value. If you ever decide to sell your home, you may be able to transfer your home warranty plan to the new homebuyer depending on the company you have your home warranty with.

Downsides of a Home Warranty

One disadvantage of signing up for a home warranty is that there are often exclusions. For example, if you already have a manufacturer's warranty on one of your appliances, it may not be covered under the home warranty, so it’s important to read through any contracts you’re considering carefully to get a sense of what is included and what isn’t.

Another consideration is that home warranties usually only cover repairs needed due to normal wear and tear. They often won’t cover systems or appliances that have stopped working due to natural disasters, animal infestations, improper maintenance, etc.

Our Recommended Providers

Best for Customization
4.5/5
  • Holds high ratings among customer service reviews
  • Covers repairs with a 60-day workmanship guarantee
  • Offers an extensive list of 30+ add-on coverages
Best For First Time Homeowners
4.2/5
  • The oldest and most trusted company in the industry
  • Allows customers to build their own plans
  • Ability to choose the service fee you want to pay
Best Claims Acceptance
4.1/5
  • Comprehensive coverage
  • Decent coverage caps
  • No exclusions for older homes

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Dubuque, IA

A home warranty in Dubuque can cost anywhere from $30 to $60 a month. The higher-priced plans typically have higher coverage limits, a lower service fee, and broader coverage. You can often lower this cost by paying annually instead of monthly. Some providers will also reduce your up-front costs when you agree to a higher service fee.

The difference between a home warranty and homeowner's insurance lies in what kinds of damage each covers. A home warranty plan covers normal wear and tear to systems and appliances in a home. Homeowners insurance protects your home in a situation such as a fire or natural disaster. With homeowners insurance, you won't be able to file a claim should you need a new washing machine or dishwasher, unless the damage is due to a natural disaster, which is somewhat common in Dubuque.

First-time homebuyers, home sellers, landlords, homeowners, and real estate agents are all eligible for home warranty plans. A home warranty can help make your house more attractive to prospective buyers and save you money in the long run.

A home warranty policy will cover your home’s appliances, systems, or both. Combination plans are great if you'd like more coverage for your home, but a system- or appliance-only plan can be helpful if you're concerned about one more than the other.

Home warranty plans generally last a year. Many providers let you renew your plan each year, and some offer month-to-month plans as well.

Typically, the homeowner is responsible for paying for the home warranty. In some cases, though, the home seller may buy a home warranty plan and transfer the policy to the buyer. The new homeowner will then be responsible for the service fees when using the policy. Since the average home value in Dubuque is $219,244, a home warranty can save you some money when buying a home.

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