Best Mobile Home Warranty Companies (2024)
Mobile homes, also referred to as manufactured homes, are an affordable alternative to traditional stick-built homes. They come with many of the same essential appliances and systems as conventional homes, even though they’re smaller. They also require financial protection against unforeseen breakdowns.
We compared 13 leading home warranty companies to find the best mobile home warranty providers. We recommend American Home Shield due to its comprehensive coverage and high coverage caps. Keep reading to learn about our full list of recommended providers and get advice on choosing the best mobile home warranty coverage.
Note: In 1976, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development updated the term “mobile home” to “manufactured home.” The new term refers to homes manufactured after 1976 that were built to its improved construction and safety standards. Since the term “mobile home” is still commonly used, we will use “mobile home” and manufactured home” interchangeably throughout this article.
Did You Know?
- In the last 30 days, more than 2,500 people bought home warranties from the above providers. Liberty Home Guard is our most popular provider, with 55% of buyers choosing to cover their homes with an LHG plan.
Summary of Best Mobile Home Warranty Providers
We recognize the following five companies as the best mobile home warranty providers:
- Best for Comprehensive Coverage: American Home Shield
- Best Plan Flexibility: AFC Home Warranty
- Best for High-End Items: First American Home Warranty
- Best Customer Support: Liberty Home Guard
- Best Budget Plan: Select Home Warranty
Compare Home Warranty Companies for Mobile Homes
The table below compares our top picks based on key scoring factors, including monthly cost, claim response time, and service call fees.
|
|||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|||||
|
|||||
|
|||||
|
|||||
#1 out of 16 companies | #2 out of 16 companies | #3 out of 16 companies | #4 out of 16 companies | #5 out of 16 companies | |
NR | B | B- | B | B | |
Monthly Cost |
$49–$59 | $49–$109 | $44–$47 | $47–$87 | $34–$92 |
Service Fees |
$65–$125 | $100–$125 | $60–$75 | $75–$125 | $75–$125 |
Customer Support Options |
Email, Phone, Online Chat, Online Portal | Phone, Online Portal | Email, Phone, Online Portal | Phone, Online Portal | Phone, Online Portal |
Response Time |
Up to 48 hours | Up to 48 hours | 48-84 hours | 4–48 hours | 24-48 hours |
Pros |
|
|
|
|
|
Cons |
|
|
|
|
|
Summary |
We recommend Liberty Home Guard for homeowners who need coverage for multiple HVAC systems and extensive add-on customizations. |
We recommend American Home Shield for homeowners who need comprehensive coverage for older homes. |
We recommend Select Home Warranty for homeowners who need affordable HVAC-only coverage. |
We recommend First American Home Warranty for homeowners who need robust plan options for HVAC and high-end appliances. |
We recommend AFC Home Warranty for homeowners who want extensive HVAC coverage and protections for new systems. |
Promotions |
$200 Off + 2 Months Free + Roof Leak Protection | Black Friday Savings: 50% OFF Select Plans | Use code HOUSE25 for $150 off + 2 months free | $100 Off with Code “PROTECT” | Fall Sale: $250 Off + Free Roof Leak Coverage |
Rating Categories |
Liberty Home Guard | American Home Shield | Select Home Warranty | First American Home Warranty | AFC Home Warranty |
Coverage |
|||||
Value |
|||||
Trustworthiness |
|||||
Plan Transparency |
|||||
Customer Support |
|||||
Flexibility |
**We based the pricing information in this table and throughout the article on sample quotes we obtained for a 1,484-square-foot manufactured home in Proctor, Arkansas. Your pricing may vary depending on your home’s location, size, type, and plan selections.
How We Rated Mobile Home Warranty Companies
We evaluated 13 providers and read through 31 coverage plans to determine the best mobile home warranty providers. We verified each company covered mobile or manufactured homes and didn’t include exclusions specific to this home type. We compared system and appliance coverage, exclusions, add-on options, and workmanship guarantee length. We spoke with several industry experts to get their insight into mobile home ownership and protections. We also secret-shopped and tested the claims process to see the customer experience firsthand.
We created a detailed methodology to score each company. We scored based on four categories: coverage, value, trust and transparency, and availability and service. We awarded points for each category and converted scores to a final 5-star rating scale.
Our Home Warranty Experts
We consulted over 15 home warranty professionals during our research on home warranty coverage. We spoke to the following two experts specifically about mobile home warranties:
- Yancy Forsythe: Forsythe is the owner and founder of Missouri Valley Homes, a cash homebuying business based in Carrollton, Missouri.
- Keith Sant: Sant is the founder & CEO of Kind House Buyers, a cash homebuying business based in Tacoma, Washington.
How Do Mobile Home Warranties Work?
Here’s a look at the basics of a mobile home warranty plan including typical coverage, costs, and benefits.
What Does a Mobile Home Warranty Cover?
Traditional and mobile homes share certain basic features, but their major difference is their construction. Sant says, “Mobile homes feature distinct systems and appliances compared to traditional stick-built homes, often requiring specialized repairs or replacements.” He adds, “A tailored home warranty for such properties offers peace of mind and financial protection in the event of unforeseen breakdowns.”
A typical mobile home warranty covers major systems and appliances such as your air conditioner, electrical system, and refrigerator. Many providers offer three types of home warranty plans: appliance plans, system plans, and comprehensive (or combo) plans. Appliance plans cover home appliances such as washers and dryers. A system plan covers systems, including electrical or plumbing. A comprehensive plan provides coverage for both systems and appliances. The list below highlights items typically found in home warranty coverage.
How Much Does a Mobile Home Warranty Cost?
Our research showed that a mobile home warranty costs between $40 and $100 per month. Basic protection costs less on average than more comprehensive coverage. You may pay less for a plan by selecting an appliance or system-only plan or customizing coverage for select items. In addition to plan premiums, you’ll also pay a service call fee per visit. These fees can range between $60 and $125 per visit.
The following factors would also impact your mobile home warranty costs:
- Coverage level: Choosing a home warranty plan with more coverage than you need will result in higher premiums. Many companies offer less expensive specialized plans targeted for system-only or appliance-only protections. We recommend avoiding purchasing a plan with more coverage than you need to help keep your costs down. Or, consider purchasing a more customizable plan and selecting only the protections you need.
- Home age: Most older homes require more repairs due to the age of their appliances and systems. Many providers exclude coverage for preexisting conditions or could limit payouts due to item age. Ensure your plan covers physical damage for older items or preexisting conditions so you get the right caps for these service repairs. Choosing a company with low caps and coverage exclusions will result in more out-of-pocket costs.
- Location: Many providers vary costs based on your location. This includes different parts within your state or ZIP code. Some providers also base certain costs on your location, such as service call fees. We recommend getting quotes from at least three providers to compare costs and find the best coverage options.
What Are the Benefits of a Mobile Home Warranty?
A mobile home warranty can save you money when an important home item unexpectedly fails, and it can also provide you with the following benefits:
- Additional security: A home warranty can provide peace of mind if a major system or appliance, such as your refrigerator or air conditioning, breaks down by ensuring a technician fixes it within a few days.
- Increased resale value for your mobile home: Having a home warranty can entice potential homebuyers and provide a safety net on all systems and appliances for their first year of homeownership.
- Quick access to local professionals: You don’t need to call around to find a trusted service technician. Most home warranty companies will send a professional contractor from their network to address repairs or replacements.
How a Mobile Home Manufacturer’s Warranty Differs From a Home Warranty?
A mobile home manufacturer’s warranty and a home warranty both protect your mobile home but in different ways. Most manufacturers’ warranties include coverage for structural components and materials only. However, this differs from a typical home warranty plan. Yancy says, “A manufactured home’s written warranty typically covers the home’s structure and craftsmanship while a home warranty focuses on protecting home systems and appliances from wear and tear.” Pair your manufacturer’s warranty with home warranty coverage for maximum mobile home protection.
Mobile Home Warranty Company Reviews
The following sections provide an overview of our top mobile home warranty providers and which homeowners we recommend them for.
What Should You Consider When Buying a Mobile Home Warranty?
Keep the following in mind as you shop for the best mobile home warranty plan:
- Coverage needs: Consider which appliances and systems need the most protection in your mobile home. For example, if you have older items, look for plans that cover preexisting conditions. Consider a specialized plan that includes your essential appliances or systems instead of a comprehensive plan if you only need specific coverage. Sant recommends finding a home warranty company with flexible plans that suit your specific needs. He says that these plans are helpful if you plan to upgrade or renovate your mobile home in the future.
- Plan exclusions: Review sample contracts to verify coverage exclusions and limitations. Ensure the company specifically covers mobile or manufactured homes. Many providers limit coverage to only items within your home. For example, your home plan won’t cover a community pool within a mobile home community.
- Review scores and brand reputation: Check each company’s reputation on the Better Business Bureau and third-party review sites. Read through homeowner reviews and look for any recurring issues, including denied claims, poor repair service, questionable business practices, and pending lawsuits.
- Technician availability: Review each company’s service technician policy and determine if it uses an exclusive network or lets you choose your own technician. You may need to speak with a representative to get more details about its qualified technicians and exact availability in your area. Consider a provider with a more flexible repair policy if the company offers limited service technicians near you.
Home Warranty Cost Calculator
Our team created a calculator to break down the estimated annual cost of owning a home warranty.
You should use the following steps to calculate your projected annual cost:
- Enter your monthly premium
- Enter your service call fee
- Enter your estimated number of claims
It’s best to request a quote directly from one of our recommended providers, as annual costs and service fees vary between them.
Use the table below to compare your calculated cost to repair and replacement costs for common appliances.
Item/System | Average Cost to Repair | Average Cost to Replace |
Exhaust fans | $16–$300 | $250–$950 |
Refrigerator | $40–$350 | $200–$5,000 |
Dehumidifier | $50–$200 | $1,300–$2,800 |
Microwave | $50–$400 | $60–$2,000 |
Washer | $50–$450 | $400–$2,300 |
Dishwasher | $50–$500 | $400–$3,000 |
Freezer | $90–$500 | $160–$2,900 |
Dryer | $100–$400 | $450–$2,300 |
Oven | $100–$430 | $400–$3,000 |
Electric range | $100–$500 | $230–$3,000 |
Gas range | $100–$500 | $230–$3,000 |
Life span and repair cost data sourced from InterNACHI and Home Depot
FAQ About Mobile Home Warranties
Do home warranties cover pre-existing conditions?
Most home warranty companies don’t cover preexisting conditions, but there are some companies that cover items that have been improperly installed, modified, or maintained.
Can you get a home warranty without an inspection?
Yes, most mobile home warranty companies don’t require a home inspection before you sign up for coverage, and protection will begin 30 days after signing a contract. However, we recommend getting an inspection before your coverage kicks in so you’re familiar with the condition of your systems and appliances and aren’t surprised by any coverage exclusions.
What’s the difference between a home warranty and homeowners insurance?
A mobile home warranty is an optional service contract that covers systems and appliances when they break down due to normal wear and tear. Homeowners insurance, on the other hand, is required and protects your home when it’s damaged by natural disasters, fire, or theft.
How long does a home warranty last?
A home warranty typically lasts for a year, but you may be able to enroll in a multi-year warranty plan when signing up.
Can you get a home warranty on a mobile home?
Yes, you can get a home warranty for your mobile home from providers such as Liberty Home Guard and American Home Shield.
How Do I Find the Best Home Warranty Company in My Area?
Find in-depth reviews on the best home warranty companies for each state below.
Best Home Warranty Companies by State
Related Resources
We’ve compiled several easy-to-digest guides based on our extensive home warranty coverage. Learn more below.
More on Home Warranties
- What Is a Home Warranty?
- Home Warranty vs. Homeowners Insurance
- Residential Service Contract
- Cheapest Home Warranty Companies
- Best Home Warranties for Condos
- Best Home Warranties for Rental Properties
Related to Home Appliances
- Appliance Extended Warranties
- Best Refrigerator Warranty
- Home Depot Extended Warranty
- Sears Appliance Warranty
- Best Home Warranty for High-End Appliances
Related to Home Systems
- Best Home Warranty for HVAC
- Best Water Heater Home Warranty
- Best Sewer Line Home Warranty
- Best Plumbing Home Warranty
Our Methodology
We back up our home warranty ratings and recommendations with a detailed rating methodology to objectively score each provider. We conduct research by speaking with company representatives, requesting quotes, analyzing sample contracts from each company, and conducting focus groups and consumer surveys. We then score each provider against our review standards for coverage, cost, trustworthiness, plan transparency, customer support, and flexibility to arrive at a final score on a 5-point rating scale. To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com