First American Home Warranty vs. American Home Shield

Unexpected home repair costs can wreak havoc on a budget, especially for big-ticket items like HVAC systems, water heaters, washers and dryers. A home warranty protects homeowners from expensive home repairs, paying for repairs and replacements of household systems and appliances when they break down from wear and tear.

Warranty companies like American Home Shield and First American Home Warranty provide plans with various levels of coverage. Compare the two warranty providers using the information below to decide which is right for you.

First American Home Warranty vs. American Home Shield cost

When comparing costs, American Home Shield has a lower potential service fee, the amount paid when a technician visits. However, American Home Shield's monthly premiums start at a lower price point for its basic plans. For customers seeking the most comprehensive coverage, First American Home Warranty offers a more affordable top-tier plan.

First American Home Warranty plans and pricing

You can select a service fee of $100 or $125 with First American Home Warranty. You’ll pay $25 more out of pocket for repairs with the higher service fee, but your plan will cost you $5 less monthly.

American Home Shield plans and pricing

American Home Shield lets you choose a service fee of $100 or $125, which is what you pay when you file a claim. Choosing a higher service fee reduces the monthly cost of your plan.

*Cost information is accurate as of the time of publishing. Price quotes used a Texas ZIP code; pricing may vary in other locations.

First American Home Warranty vs. American Home Shield coverage

The main coverage difference between these companies is how they structure their basic plans. American Home Shield's plans start by focusing only on home systems. First American, in contrast, provides comprehensive combo plans from the outset. As you look at their more expensive plans, both companies offer similar, robust coverage for most major items.

First American Home Warranty vs. American Home Shield add-ons

American Home Shield and First American Home Warranty offer the exact same list of optional add-ons. Both companies provide coverage for a pool and spa, well pump, septic pump and guest unit. They also both have options for electronics protection and roof leak repairs.

First American Home Warranty add-ons

If you’d like additional coverage, First American Home Warranty lets you pick up to 12 add-ons. Here’s the monthly cost of the most popular options:

American Home Shield add-ons

American Home Shield offers six add-ons. See pricing for the most popular additional coverage items below.

What First American Home Warranty customers say

First American Home Warranty customers frequently praise the helpfulness of its customer service and user-friendly claims process. While some had issues finding contractors in-network, many customers were very pleased with their technicians' politeness and professionalism. When an item couldn't be repaired, positive reviewers were typically satisfied with the amount of money they received to purchase a new appliance.

What American Home Shield customers say

American Home Shield customers appreciate the helpful technicians and fast response times. Many reviewers mention the easy online claims process and long-term savings on replacements and repairs.

Some customers, however, noted higher out-of-pocket costs than expected and occasional delays in getting parts.

Bottom line: First American Home Warranty or American Home Shield?

First American has affordable coverage. AHS has comprehensive coverage.

Both American Home Shield and First American Home Warranty are highly rated companies on ConsumerAffairs as of publishing, offering customizable coverage and flexible pricing. First American has strong coverage at a decent price compared wiith the industry average.

However, First American is only available in limited areas, while American Home Shield is available in 48 states. American Home Shield also offers coverage of more household items in its upper-level plan, making it a great choice for comprehensive coverage.