5 Best Home Warranty Companies in Iowa (2024)
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Dealing with a broken HVAC system during Iowa’s humid summers or freezing winters can be a nightmare. Having a home warranty when an appliance or system breakdown occurs can help lower emergency repair costs and connect you with a reliable repair technician to make the experience hassle-free.
We reviewed 13 leading home warranty providers to find the best options for Iowa homeowners. Then, using a detailed scorecard and methodology, we narrowed our list to the top five providers. American Home Shield took the No.1 spot thanks to its comprehensive coverage with higher coverage limits. Liberty Home Guard came in at No. 2 for its specialized coverage plans and extensive add-on catalog.
Keep reading to learn more about the best home warranty companies for protecting your Iowa home.
Key Takeaways
- The best home warranty companies in Iowa are American Home Shield and Liberty Home Guard, based on our research of 13 providers.
- An Iowa home warranty costs $724 annually on average, or $46-$79 per month, depending on your provider and coverage.
- We recommend homeowners request quotes from at least three providers to save the most money.
The listings that appear are from companies from which this website receives compensation, which may impact how, where and in what order products appear. This listing does not include all companies or all available offers and products.
What Are Top Home Warranty Companies in Iowa?
We reviewed dozens of nationwide home warranty providers and selected the following companies as Iowa’s top home warranty companies.
- Best for Comprehensive Coverage: American Home Shield
- Best for Customized Coverage: Elite 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 in Iowa
We ranked companies on more than 30 factors, such as pricing, response times, and service fees, to compare Iowa home warranty providers. The table below shows how our top picks compare across some of these key factors.
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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- | B+ | B | |
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Monthly Cost |
$49–$59 | $49–$109 | $44–$47 | $44–$59 | $47–$87 |
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Service Fees |
$65–$125 | $100–$125 | $60–$75 | $70 | $75–$125 |
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Customer Support Options |
Email, Phone, Online Chat, Online Portal | Phone, Online Portal | Email, Phone, Online Portal | Email, Phone, Online Portal | Phone, Online Portal |
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Response Time |
Up to 48 hours | Up to 48 hours | 48-84 hours | Up to 48 hours | 4–48 hours |
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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 First American Home Warranty for homeowners who need robust plan options for HVAC and high-end appliances. |
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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 | Get 50% Off Any Plan Plus Your First Month Free! | $100 Off with Code “PROTECT” |
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Rating Categories |
Liberty Home Guard | American Home Shield | Select Home Warranty | Elite Home Warranty | First American Home Warranty |
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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 |
Note: We based the pricing information in this table and throughout the article on sample quotes we obtained for a 1,929-square-foot, single-family home in Des Moines, Iowa. Your pricing may vary depending on your home’s location, size, type, and plan selections.
How Much Does a Home Warranty Cost in Iowa?
Expect to pay an average of $60 per month for an Iowa home warranty. If you prefer to pay annually, expect to pay roughly $546-$948. These numbers are based on the pricing information we pulled from our top Iowa providers.
Several factors affect the cost of a home warranty. The premium and service call fee are the main contributors to your coverage plan’s price. Most companies base premiums on the extent of their plans’ coverage. Our research shows companies that cover more items price their plans higher. Additionally, some companies allow you to customize your coverage cost via flexible service call fees. We recommend pulling quotes from three providers to compare coverage and plan costs.
Is a Home Warranty Worth It in Iowa?
Yes, an Iowa home warranty can offer financial assistance when major systems and appliances break down. Home warranties cover repair or replacement costs when these systems and appliances fail from regular use. They also connect you with repair technicians to make the experience more stress-free.
For example, HVAC systems are integral in most Iowan homes due to varying seasonal conditions. Over time, regular use can cause your HVAC system to break down. According to an InterNACHI report, the average life expectancy of an HVAC system ranges from seven to 25 years. If your heating or cooling system is within that age range, it’s likely to experience a breakdown sooner rather than later.
A home warranty can provide financial protection for an unexpected HVAC malfunction. It won’t cover all HVAC breakdowns, but it does cover the components necessary for the system to function.
We’ve listed some of the most common breakdowns Iowans may face to help you better understand how a home warranty can protect your home.
Air Conditioning
About 97% of Iowa residents rely on air conditioning equipment to keep their homes cool, according to a report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration. However, an unexpected system breakdown can leave you scrambling for a last-minute repair. A broken AC can make your home unbearable, but a malfunctioning unit could drive up energy costs. Minor air conditioning repairs range between $100–$650. If you need a full replacement, expect to pay $2,500–$15,000 for a new air conditioner.
Gas Furnace
Natural gas furnaces provide a more cost-effective and energy-efficient way to heat your home. Iowa temperatures can reach as low as 20℉–30℉, making a reliable heating system necessary. Most furnaces last up to 30 years, but after the 15-year mark, you might experience more failures. A failing gas furnace leaves your home in the cold and potentially leaks toxic fumes into the air. Repair costs could range from $30–$150 for simple fixes to $13,000 for a furnace replacement.
Plumbing Leaks
Plumbing leaks often begin as a minor inconvenience, but they can cause major damage if left untreated. Leaking water could pool under the leak and eventually seep into surrounding walls, cabinets, and flooring. These wet surfaces eventually grow mold and mildew that could cause significant health issues for you and your family. You could pay for plumbing repairs and additional replacement costs for damaged walls and cabinets. Simple leak repairs could cost $150–$450. However, severe damage could require higher plumbing costs, ranging from $200–$5,000.
Roof Leaks
Your roof undergoes a lot of strain when packed with thick layers of snow or exposed to high temperatures. Over time, it gradually wears down and can become plagued with leaks. Like plumbing leaks, untreated roof leaks cause major structural damage and health hazards. If you don’t have a home warranty, you can face a typical range of roof repair costs between $150–$2,000 for minor damage. Partial or complete roof replacement will cost significantly more, upwards of $3,800–$10,000.
Sump Pumps
Sump pumps help keep your basements or crawl spaces protected from excessive flooding and water damage. However, if you notice your sump pump starts to make strange noises or won’t turn on, it’s a sure sign it’s beginning to fail. Broken sump pumps fail to remove excess water, leading to basement flooding, mold and mildew growth, and major property damage. You could spend $350–$1,000 on minor sump pump repairs. Costs could soar as high as $4,000 or more for a new sump pump installation.
What Does an Iowa Home Warranty Cover?
An Iowa home warranty protects essential home appliances and systems from wear and tear over time. These plans provide repairs or replacements for covered items. Matching your coverage to your needs is key to maximizing the benefits of your home warranty plan. According to our 2024 survey involving 1,000 home warranty customers, nearly half (44%) cited plan coverage as the most crucial factor in their decision-making process
We’ve created the below guide on typical coverage, exclusions, and add-on options to help you find the right coverage for your home.
Common Inclusions
Most home warranties cover major appliances and systems found in a home. Common items include the following:
- Air conditioning
- Built-in microwaves
- Clothes dryers
- Cooktops, ovens, ranges, and stoves
- Dishwashers
- Ductwork
- Electrical systems
- Garbage disposals
- Garage door openers
- Heating systems
- Plumbing systems
- Refrigerators
- Washing machines
- Water heaters
Common Exclusions
Home warranty plans are designed to provide peace of mind, but it's essential to understand the common exclusions that may apply. Coverage can vary between providers, but the following items and conditions are typically excluded from coverage:
- Cosmetic issues
- Preexisting conditions
- Issued caused by improper installation
- Problems due to poor maintenance
- Physical damage
An additional exclusion includes any issues that arise after signing up for a coverage plan. Most home warranties don’t offer immediate protection. Ryan Hawker, co-founder of H3 Homebuyers, says, “Your coverage begins typically after 30 days of signing a contract.” This means you don’t have home warranty coverage during that time. If an item breaks down, you typically can’t file a claim for coverage.
Common Add-ons
Iowa home warranty providers also provide add-on coverage options for additional monthly costs. These can include the following:
- Annual HVAC maintenance
- Electronics protection
- Guest homes
- Jetted tubs
- Lawn sprinklers
- Pest control services
- Plumbing fixtures
- Pool and spa equipment
- Pro-series and high-end appliances
- Rekey services
- Roof leaks
- Secondary appliances
- Secondary HVAC systems
- Septic tanks
- Septic tank pumping
- Sump pumps
- Well pumps
Our Home Warranty Research Process
We conducted thorough research on common homeowner problems to find the top Iowa home warranty companies and spoke to home warranty experts to gain insight into the industry and crucial details about the purchasing process. Then, we contacted company representatives, got sample quotes, and reviewed contract terms. Our team also tested the claims process for several home warranty companies firsthand and conducted secret shopping to learn more about the customer experience.
We then scored each provider against our detailed methodology in four categories: coverage, value, trust and transparency, and availability and service. During our scoring, we considered key systems and appliances for Iowa homes, including HVAC, plumbing, and roof leak coverage. We also checked third-party customer reviews and claims processing times. Finally, we awarded points for each category and converted scores to a final 5-star rating scale.
Our Home Warranty Experts
We consulted the following experts to learn more about the home warranty industry, common customer pain points, and the customer experience:
- Ryan Hawker: Hawker is the co-founder of H3 Homebuyers, a home-selling company.
- Patrick Grayson: Grayson owns Stolco Designs, a construction company, and partners with Paramount Property Buyers, a real estate business.
Iowa Home Warranty Reviews
We’ve provided detailed reviews of our top Iowa home warranty providers below.
American Home Shield
Best for Comprehensive Coverage
Elite Home Warranty
Best for Customized Coverage
First American Home Warranty
Best for High-End Items
Liberty Home Guard
Best Customer Support
Select Home Warranty
Best Budget Plan
Which Home Warranty Companies Didn’t Make the List?
Some companies, such as AFC Home Warranty and Choice Home Warranty, didn't make our list of top home warranty companies in Iowa. However, they may still be viable options depending on your needs. Below is an overview of both.
AFC Home Warranty
AFC Home Warranty offers unlimited coverage caps for most systems, including HVAC and plumbing, plus a workmanship guarantee. Unfortunately, it falls short because of its depreciation policy for items over five years old. It may only suit Iowa homeowners looking for extended workmanship protection and unlimited system caps for new systems and appliances.
Choice Home Warranty
Choice Home Warranty offers two affordable, comprehensive coverage plans that include a $3,000 cap for HVAC systems. The company also offers a 90-day workmanship guarantee on parts and a 60-day guarantee on labor. However, its lowest plan excludes many key items, including air conditioning, laundry appliances, and refrigerators. It also has an ongoing 2019 lawsuit with the Arizona Attorney General. Choice could be a solid option for Iowa homeowners looking for cheap, comprehensive coverage and extended workmanship protection. Check out our complete review of Choice Home Warranty to learn more.
How To Choose a Home Warranty in Iowa
Keep the following steps in mind to find the right coverage plan when buying a home warranty in Iowa:
- Determine your coverage needs: First, consider which appliances and systems need coverage. Avoid investing in more coverage than you need. Grayson suggests confirming the type of coverage a provider offers. “When shopping for a home warranty, consider the coverage that each company offers and make sure it fits your needs,” he says. Many providers offer comprehensive and specialized plans, so choose the type that best suits your situation.
- Get multiple quotes: We recommend getting quotes from at least three providers. Compare premium costs, service call fees, coverage, and exclusions. Check for any promotion discounts and free months of service for extra savings.
- Research each provider: Gauge brand reputation by checking the BBB and third-party customer reviews. Check for any recurring complaints about poor customer support, denied claims, underskilled technicians, and low payouts.
- Read through sample contacts: Most home warranty providers offer sample contracts on their website. They should offer full details on the company’s policies and procedures. Read through each contract and check for any missing disclosures about their policies. Contact customer support to get clarification for any unclear terms and conditions.
- Verify technician availability: Check each company’s claims process and verify technician availability in your areas. Some companies have limited coverage throughout the state. If technician coverage is limited, ensure the provider will let you choose your own provider.
How Are Home Warranties Regulated in Iowa?
Iowa’s Insurance Division (IID) regulates home warranties. The IID follows the legislature outlined in Iowa’s Chapter 523C insurance code to ensure home warranty companies adhere to the established regulations. For example, section 523C.5 highlights the financial requirements home warranty companies must follow to obtain a license to sell service contracts, such as maintaining a reserve fund.
If you believe your home warranty company is ignoring its contractual obligations, you can file a complaint with the IID.
Home Warranty Cost Calculator
We created a calculator to break down the estimated annual cost of owning a home warranty.
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.
| Appliance | Average Repair Cost | Average Replacement Cost |
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Dehumidifier |
$50–$200 |
$1,300–$2,800 |
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Microwave |
$50–$400 |
$60–$2,000 |
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Dishwasher |
$50–$500 |
$400–$3,000 |
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Exhaust Fans |
$16–$300 |
$250–$950 |
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Electric Range |
$100–$500 |
$230–$3,000 |
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Gas Range |
$100–$500 |
$230–$3,000 |
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Dryer |
$100–$400 |
$450–$2,300 |
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Oven |
$100–$430 |
$400–$3,000 |
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Washer |
$50–$450 |
$400–$2,300 |
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Freezer |
$90–$500 |
$160–$2,900 |
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Refrigerator |
$40–$350 |
$200–$5,000 |
Life span and repair cost data sourced from InterNACHI and Home Depot
Other Resources for Residents in Iowa
FAQ About Home Warranties in Iowa
Are Iowa home warranties worth it?
Yes, Iowa home warranties are worth it for most residents. Systems and appliances don’t last a lifetime and will eventually break down or fail. A home warranty in Iowa can help protect you from the high costs associated with repairing and replacing these systems and appliances and get your broken item back to working quickly.
Do home warranties in Iowa cover pre-existing conditions?
No, most Iowa home warranties exclude preexisting conditions. Most home warranty providers will only cover items that have been properly installed and maintained.
Can I purchase an Iowa home warranty after closing on a house?
Yes, you can purchase an Iowa home warranty after a home closing. Home warranties can be added after closing, moving in, or settling in your new home.
How does a home warranty work in Iowa?
An Iowa home warranty protects appliances and systems that suffer wear and tear over time. If a covered item breaks down, you submit a claim with your home warranty company online or over the phone. Your company will assign a service contractor to your case and set an appointment if it approves your claim. The contractor comes to your house to diagnose the issue and offer a repair or replacement.
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.
