5 Best Home Warranty Companies in Massachusetts (2024 Guide)
When faced with harsh winters and humid summers, Massachusetts homeowners rely on essential home systems, such as heating and cooling, to keep their homes comfortable year-round. When these systems fail, homeowners could face thousands in repair and replacement costs in an emergency, especially considering the higher cost of living in Massachusetts. Home warranties offer added security and financial protection in these situations. You receive quick repairs from trusted technicians for reduced costs, reducing the stress and costs of finding last-minute help on your own.
Our team thoroughly researched top home warranty providers to assist you in finding the right company for your Massachusetts home. We chose American Home Shield as a top pick for its robust protection and high coverage limits for home systems. Liberty Home Guard also made our list by offering a wide selection of add-on options and tailored plans. Read on to learn more about our top picks for the best home warranty companies in Massachusetts.
Key Takeaways
- The best home warranty companies in Massachusetts are American Home Shield and Liberty Home Guard, based on our research of 13 home warranty providers.
- A Massachusetts home warranty costs $797 annually on average, or $46-$109 per month, depending on your provider and coverage.
- Our home warranty survey revealed that 92.7% of policyholders were satisfied with their home warranty plan, while less than 1% were dissatisfied.
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 Top Home Warranty Companies in Massachusetts
Liberty Home Guard offers an extensive add-on coverage catalog, plus standard coverage for multiple heating and cooling units. American Home Shield provides comprehensive appliance and system protections with generous caps for plumbing and heating. Below is our complete list of top Massachusetts home warranty companies:
- Best for Comprehensive Coverage: American Home Shield
- Best Customer Support: Liberty Home Guard
- Best for Customized Coverage: Elite Home Warranty
- Best Plan Flexibility: AFC Home Warranty
- Best Budget Plan: Select Home Warranty
The table below compares the key features of our top picks for Massachusetts home warranty providers.
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#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- | A- | B | |
Monthly Cost |
$49–$59 | $49–$109 | $44–$47 | $44–$59 | $34–$92 |
Service Fees |
$65–$125 | $100–$125 | $60–$75 | $70 | $75–$125 |
Customer Support Options |
Email, Phone, Online Chat, Online Portal | Phone, Online Portal | Email, Phone, Online Portal | Email, Phone, Online Portal | Phone, Online Portal |
Response Time |
Up to 48 hours | Up to 48 hours | 48-84 hours | Up to 48 hours | 24-48 hours |
Pros |
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Cons |
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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 Elite Home Warranty for homeowners who want fully customizable plans and extensive add-on coverage options. |
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 | $150 Off Any Plan | Use code HOUSE25 for $150 off + 2 months free | $150 off + 30-day free trial | Fall Sale: $250 Off + Free Roof Leak Coverage |
Rating Categories |
Liberty Home Guard | American Home Shield | Select Home Warranty | Elite Home Warranty | AFC Home Warranty |
Coverage |
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Value |
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Trustworthiness |
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Plan Transparency |
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Customer Support |
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Flexibility |
Company | BBB Rating | Monthly Cost in MA | Service Fee | Visit Site |
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NR** | $49–$59 | $65–$125 | VISIT SITE | |
B | $79–$139 | $100–$125 | VISIT SITE | |
A- | $44–$58 | $70 | VISIT SITE | |
B- | $44–$47 | $60–$75 | VISIT SITE | |
B | $42–$103 | $75–$125 | VISIT SITE |
Note: The pricing information in this article uses a 2,001-square-foot, single-family home in Brighton, Massachusetts. Your monthly premium may vary based on your home’s location and size and your plan and add-on choices.
How We Rated Home Warranty Companies in Massachusetts
To determine the top home warranty providers in Massachusetts, we consulted with local home builders, repair technicians, and real estate agents to understand common homeowner needs and repairs in the state. We then researched home warranty companies, spoke to representatives, reviewed sample contracts and quotes, and examined service policies.
Next, we scored each provider against our review standards in six categories: coverage, cost, trustworthiness, plan transparency, customer support, and flexibility. We evaluated coverage options to ensure plumbing, HVAC, and roof leak coverage appeared in the standard plan or as an add-on option. We analyzed premium costs in relation to the coverage value provided. We examined brand reputation and third-party review sites to gauge the customer experience. Additionally, we evaluated availability and service by looking at claims response times, customer support availability, and the claims process.
How Much Does a Home Warranty Cost in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, the average monthly cost for a home warranty plan is about $66, or around $797 if paying annually. Several factors influence home warranty pricing, including home size, location, and selected plan options.
We’ve listed some key factors that can affect final costs below:
- Coverage options: You typically pay more for comprehensive plans than appliance- or system-only coverage. We recommend assessing your systems and appliances and choosing the essential items that need coverage. Match your home warranty plan to those needs. Remember that certain unique coverage, including roof leaks and sump pumps, may require add-ons, which will increase your premium rates.
- Home age: Since many Massachusetts homes are almost 60 years or older on average, consider coverage that protects items with unknown preexisting conditions or corrosion damage. Most home warranty companies don’t cover these conditions, so you may pay more for more comprehensive plans that offer these protections.
- Location: Your home’s location could play a role in your coverage costs since you’ll need certain protections based on your geographic location. For example, homes in the snowiest parts of the state will need ample protection for their heating, plumbing, and roof leaks.
Is a Home Warranty Worth It in Massachusetts?
Home warranties help Massachusetts homeowners restore essential systems and appliances running when faced with unexpected breakdowns. These protections offer financial relief when major systems, such as HVAC and plumbing, require immediate repair to keep your home running smoothly.
- Massachusetts is home to some of the oldest homes in the country, ranking third behind New York and Rhode Island, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).
With an average home age of 13 years, Massachusetts homeowners could face more frequent repair and replacement costs. Home warranties could help reduce these costs, making it more affordable to maintain older systems and appliances.
According to our research, the systems and appliances that homeowners in Massachusetts repair most often:
Item | Average Cost to Repair | Average Cost to Replace |
---|---|---|
$30–$150 |
$3,800–$10,000 |
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$100–$650 |
$2,500 and $15,000 |
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$150–$450 |
$200–$5,000 |
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$150–$2,000 |
$5,000–$13,000 |
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$350–$1,000 |
$500–$4,000 |
Data sourced from The Home Depot
Massachusetts Home Warranty Reviews
We’ve provided a detailed overview of our top Massachusetts home warranty companies below.
How Do I Choose a Home Warranty in Massachusetts?
When purchasing a home warranty for your Massachusetts home, keep the following factors in mind to find the right coverage for your needs.
- Review coverage details: Check each company’s plan coverage and ensure it matches your home needs. Have a list of all home systems and appliances that need coverage and make sure the provider offers proper coverage for each item. Read through the sample contract and verify coverage caps for each item. Some companies offer the same caps for every item, while others vary limits per item.
- Verify company credentials: Ensure any potential company is authorized to conduct business in Massachusetts and holds the necessary credentials to do so. We also recommend researching the company’s BBB rating and reputation and reading customer reviews.
- Understand the claims process: Ensure you understand the company’s claims process and verify all available tools for submitting claims. Most providers offer 24/7 claims lines and online portals. Some companies offer claim submissions through online chats or dedicated apps. Check the company’s typical turnaround time and local technician availability.
- Read more: Home Warranty Buying Guide
How Are Home Warranties Regulated in Massachusetts?
The Division of Insurance (DOI) regulates home warranties under Massachusetts state law. The DOI details its regulatory prices under Massachusetts Statute §§ 175, 146B–149F. The state requires all home warranty providers to file a $25,000 surety bond to provide financial stability. Home warranty providers must also hold a certificate of authority issued by the DOI to conduct business in Massachusetts.
To file a complaint about a home warranty provider or contract, homeowners can email the Consumer Services Unit. In addition to the DOI, other industry associations, including the Service Contract Industry Council (SCIC), offer additional customer protection services.
Home Warranty Cost Calculator
Our team created a calculator to break down the estimated annual cost of owning a home warranty. Enter your monthly premium, service call fee, and estimated number of claims to see your projected annual cost. It’s best to request a quote directly from one of our recommended providers, as annual costs and service fees vary.
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 |
Note: The annual cost figure generated by our home warranty calculator is not an indication of a company’s actual plan cost, as annual costs and service fees vary based on your plan selections and your home’s size, type, and location.
Life span and repair cost data sourced from InterNACHI and Home Depot
Other Resources for Residents in Massachusetts
FAQ About Home Warranties in Massachusetts
Who pays for a home warranty?
Typically, the homeowner will pay for the monthly or annual premiums and the service fee, while the home warranty provider covers the cost of labor and parts for repair. Regarding repair costs, providers include coverage caps for how much they’re willing to cover per visit. If the repair cost exceeds the coverage cap, the homeowner will have to pay the remaining amount.
What’s covered under a Massachusetts home warranty?
A Massachusetts home warranty protects major systems such as water heaters, heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical. You also receive protection for major appliances such as cooktops, washers, dryers, and refrigerators. Your standard home warranty plan typically won’t cover items such as pools and second refrigerators. Still, most companies will allow you to add coverage for these items at an additional cost.
Can you use a home warranty and home insurance at the same time?
Yes, you can use a home warranty and home insurance at the same time. A home warranty protects your home’s systems and appliances when they break down due to normal wear and tear. Homeowners insurance protects your home from structural and property damage when an unexpected event occurs, such as theft or fire. Having both plans offers complete protection for your home.
Our Detailed Rating 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.