How to Compare Home Warranty Companies (A Simple, Non‑Salesy Scorecard)

Step 1 — Your Top 3 Risk Items

Write down the three items you care about most (examples: HVAC, water heater, refrigerator). These determine which caps matter.

• Risk Item #1: ________
• Risk Item #2: ________
• Risk Item #3: ________

Step 2 — Score the Plan (0–2 points each)

1. Coverage caps (limits): Do caps align with your risk items?
   
   0 = low/unclear caps • 1 = mixed • 2 = strong caps you can verify
   
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2. Service fee: Is the service fee reasonable for your expected claim frequency?
   
   0 = high/unclear • 1 = average • 2 = clear + acceptable
   
   Service Fee Explained: What You Pay Per Claim
3. Exclusions (fine print): How strict are exclusions (pre-existing, maintenance, improper install, code/permit/access)?
   
   0 = broad/unclear • 1 = typical • 2 = clearly defined and understandable
   
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4. Claims process clarity: Are steps clear (file → dispatch → diagnosis → approval)?
   
   0 = unclear • 1 = mostly clear • 2 = clearly documented
   
   Home Warranty Claims Process (Pillar Guide)
5. Contractor network & dispatch: Is dispatch realistic for your location?
   
   0 = frequent delays risk • 1 = unknown • 2 = strong availability indicators
   
   Provider Network Explained (Dispatch & Contractor Selection)
6. Out-of-pocket costs: Does the contract disclose permits/code/haul-away/access?
   
   0 = hidden • 1 = partial • 2 = clearly disclosed
   
   Out-of-Pocket Costs to Watch