Our Methodology
We've ranked the top 7 home warranty companies that operate within 50 miles of South Bend. We base our ranking off average customer ratings weighted against the number of reviews. For more information, check out our full methodology.
The total number of home warranty companies we analyzed
Companies Analyzed
We researched all the home warranty companies that service your area
Companies in South Bend
Only companies that meet our strict criteria are selected
Companies Selected
We've ranked the top 7 home warranty companies that operate within 50 miles of South Bend. We base our ranking off average customer ratings weighted against the number of reviews. For more information, check out our full methodology.
Companies Analyzed
Companies in South Bend
Companies Selected
Home warranties provide a financial buffer to repair or replace appliances that suddenly fail. For a monthly fee, these policies insure items such as refrigerators and AC units when they stop working due to regular wear and tear.
Many essential home components won't last over 10–15 years before needing service, according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors. HVAC systems typically operate for seven to 25 years. Water heaters tend to last just six to 12 years on average, and most major appliances go kaput in under 20 years.
If your South Bend home contains aging dishwashers, furnaces or other appliances, you'll probably encounter an untimely failure. These top-rated home warranty firms provide robust coverage at fair prices.
South Bend gets its fair share of wintry weather, which can put strain on both your roof and AC unit. Breakdowns could lead to sizable bills, but with a home warranty, you'll have a strong financial shield and access to a few additional perks.
Our Top Pick
4.5
Our Rating Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
- Extends 60-day workmanship guarantee
- Holds high customer ratings
- Offers customization with 38 add-ons
4.4
Our Rating Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
- Covers rust and corrosion damage
- Offers comprehensive coverage limits
- Provides flexible service fees
Limited Time Offer: 50% Off
3.8
Our Rating Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
- Charges low premiums
- Includes roof-leak coverage
- Offers solid HVAC coverage
Find the best home warranty for you in South Bend
Here's our list of the best home warranty companies in South Bend:
Average monthly costs: $22.00 - $80.00
2-10 offers flexible service fees and perks like an appliance color-match program. Through its "Even If" guarantee, it also refunds service fees if repairing or replacing a covered item isn't possible.
What we like
- Offers a $25,000 annual coverage cap
- Pairs plans with a plan-length workmanship guarantee
- Offers unique perks such as color matching appliance replacements
What we don't like
- Charges a monthly processing fee if you choose monthly premiums
- Excludes washer and dryer coverage from most plans
Plan Name
Simply HVAC
Service Fee
$65 - $100
Monthly Cost
$50 - $39
Items covered
Air conditioning, Heat pump, Heating system, Thermostat.
Add-on items
Luxury package (increases coverage limits), Washer and dryer, Roof leak, HVAC surplus, Garage door opener, Additional refrigerator, Additional wine cooler, Additional freestanding freezer, Additional wet bar refrigerator, Pool, Septic system, Well pump, Water softener, Extended pipe leak, Preseason HVAC tune-up.
Plan Name
Simply Kitchen
Service Fee
$65 - $100
Monthly Cost
$31 - $22
Items covered
Built-in microwave, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Oven, Range, Refrigerator with ice maker/crusher.
Add-on items
Luxury package (increases coverage limits), Washer and dryer, Roof leak, HVAC surplus, Garage door opener, Additional refrigerator, Additional wine cooler, Additional freestanding freezer, Additional wet bar refrigerator, Pool, Septic system, Well pump, Water softener, Extended pipe leak, Preseason HVAC tune-up.
Plan Name
Essential Home
Service Fee
$65 - $100
Monthly Cost
$61 - $51
Items covered
Air conditioning, Heat pump, Heating system, Thermostat, Built-in microwave, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Oven, Range, Refrigerator with ice maker/crusher.
Add-on items
Luxury package (increases coverage limits), Washer and dryer, Roof leak, HVAC surplus, Garage door opener, Additional refrigerator, Additional wine cooler, Additional freestanding freezer, Additional wet bar refrigerator, Pool, Septic system, Well pump, Water softener, Extended pipe leak, Preseason HVAC tune-up.
Plan Name
Complete Home
Service Fee
$65 - $100
Monthly Cost
$60 - $51
Items covered
Air conditioning, Heat pump, Heating system, Thermostat, Drain line stoppages, Plumbing system, Plumbing valves, Sump pump, Toilets, Water heater, Doorbells, Electrical systems, Built-in microwave, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Oven, Range, Refrigerator with ice maker/crusher.
Add-on items
Luxury package (increases coverage limits), Washer and dryer, Roof leak, HVAC surplus, Garage door opener, Additional refrigerator, Additional wine cooler, Additional freestanding freezer, Additional wet bar refrigerator, Pool, Septic system, Well pump, Water softener, Extended pipe leak, Preseason HVAC tune-up.
Plan Name
Pinnacle Home
Service Fee
$65 - $100
Monthly Cost
$80 - $71
Items covered
Air conditioning, Heat pump, Heating system, Thermostat, Drain line stoppages, Hose bibs, Plumbing system, Plumbing valves, Polybutylene and PEX plumbing systems, Sump pump, Toilets, Water heater, Attic and bathroom exhaust fans, Burglar and fire alarms, Doorbells, Electrical systems, Built-in microwave, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Oven, Range, Refrigerator with ice maker/crusher.
Add-on items
Luxury package (increases coverage limits), Washer and dryer, Roof leak, HVAC surplus, Garage door opener, Additional refrigerator, Additional wine cooler, Additional freestanding freezer, Additional wet bar refrigerator, Pool, Septic system, Well pump, Water softener, Extended pipe leak, Preseason HVAC tune-up.
Average monthly costs: $49.99 - $59.99
Liberty Home Guard offers the largest number of optional add-ons compared to any provider in this article — 38 in total. It also has plans featuring a 60-day workmanship guarantee on completed repairs.
What we like
- Holds high ratings among customer service reviews
- Covers repairs with a 60-day workmanship guarantee
- Offers an extensive list of 40+ add-on coverages
- Provides an easy claims process
What we don't like
- Lacks transparency on service call fee pricing
- Excludes coverage for known or unknown pre-existing conditions
Plan Name
Appliance Guard
Service Fee
$65 - $125
Monthly Cost
$49
Items covered
Built-in microwave ovens, Ceiling and exhaust fans, Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Dishwashers, Garbage disposals, Garage door openers, Ranges/ovens/cooktops, Refrigerator with ice maker and display.
Add-on items
Additional spa, Carpet cleaning, Casita guest unit, Central vacuum, Ejector pump, Electronics protection, Freestanding ice maker, Generator, Grinder pump, Gutter cleaning, In-fridge ice maker, Instant hot water dispenser, Lawn sprinkler system, Lighting fixtures, Limited roof leak, Pest control, Plumbing fixtures, Pool and spa, Power washing (exterior floor0, Pro-series clothes dryer, Pro-series dishwasher coverage, Pro-series microwave, Pro-series range/oven/cooktop coverage, Pro-series refrigerator coverage, Pro-series standalone freezer, Pro-series washing machines, Re-key services, Reverse osmosis water filter system, Saltwater pool, Second refrigerator, Septic system pumping, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Swamp cooler, Trash compactor, TV mounting (up to 65 in), TV mounting (up to 85 in), Water dispenser water line, Water softener, Well pump, Window washing/cleaning, Wine cooler/fridge.
Plan Name
Systems Guard
Service Fee
$65 - $125
Monthly Cost
$54
Items covered
Air conditioning, Ductwork, Heating, Electrical, Plumbing, Water heaters.
Add-on items
Additional spa, Carpet cleaning, Casita guest unit, Central vacuum, Ejector pump, Electronics protection, Freestanding ice maker, Generator, Grinder pump, Gutter cleaning, In-fridge ice maker, Instant hot water dispenser, Lawn sprinkler system, Lighting fixtures, Limited roof leak, Pest control, Plumbing fixtures, Pool and spa, Power washing (exterior floor0, Pro-series clothes dryer, Pro-series dishwasher coverage, Pro-series microwave, Pro-series range/oven/cooktop coverage, Pro-series refrigerator coverage, Pro-series standalone freezer, Pro-series washing machines, Re-key services, Reverse osmosis water filter system, Saltwater pool, Second refrigerator, Septic system pumping, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Swamp cooler, Trash compactor, TV mounting (up to 65 in), TV mounting (up to 85 in), Water dispenser water line, Water softener, Well pump, Window washing/cleaning, Wine cooler/fridge.
Plan Name
Total Home Guard
Service Fee
$65 - $125
Monthly Cost
$59
Items covered
Air conditioning, Ductwork, Heating, Electrical, Plumbing, Water heaters, Built-in microwave ovens, Ceiling and exhaust fans, Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Dishwashers, Garbage disposals, Garage door openers, Ranges/ovens/cooktops, Refrigerator with ice maker and display.
Add-on items
Additional spa, Carpet cleaning, Casita guest unit, Central vacuum, Ejector pump, Electronics protection, Freestanding ice maker, Generator, Grinder pump, Gutter cleaning, In-fridge ice maker, Instant hot water dispenser, Lawn sprinkler system, Lighting fixtures, Limited roof leak, Pest control, Plumbing fixtures, Pool and spa, Power washing (exterior floor0, Pro-series clothes dryer, Pro-series dishwasher coverage, Pro-series microwave, Pro-series range/oven/cooktop coverage, Pro-series refrigerator coverage, Pro-series standalone freezer, Pro-series washing machines, Re-key services, Reverse osmosis water filter system, Saltwater pool, Second refrigerator, Septic system pumping, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Swamp cooler, Trash compactor, TV mounting (up to 65 in), TV mounting (up to 85 in), Water dispenser water line, Water softener, Well pump, Window washing/cleaning, Wine cooler/fridge.
Average monthly costs: $48.98 - $59.99
Elite lets you fully customize a plan for your exact coverage needs. It also provides an exceptionally long 90-day workmanship guarantee.
What we like
- Allows you to choose your technician
- Extends a 90-day workmanship guarantee
- Offers more than 25 add-ons
What we don't like
- Charges higher service fees for high-end appliances
- Doesn't provide an online quote
- Limits repair and replacement coverage caps for older items
Plan Name
Elite Appliances
Service Fee
$70
Monthly Cost
$48
Items covered
Built-in microwave, Ceiling fans, Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Garbage disposal, Oven, Range, Refrigerator, ice maker, and water dispenser.
Add-on items
annual maintenance, attic exhaust fan, central vacuum, effluent pump, ejector pump, freestanding freezer, freestanding icemaker, freestanding spa equipment, generator, geothermal heating and cooling system, grinder pump, guest house, jetted hot tub, lawn sprinkler system, lift pump, limited roof-leak repair, pool and spa equipment, pool equipment, premium appliances, premium benefits, premium systems, premium systems plus, service line, septic system, sump pump, swamp cooler, water filtration system, water softener, well pump, wine cooler.
Plan Name
Elite Systems
Service Fee
$70
Monthly Cost
$54
Items covered
Electrical system, Garage door opener, Air conditioning system, Heating system, Plumbing fixtures, Plumbing stoppages, Plumbing system, Water heater.
Add-on items
annual maintenance, attic exhaust fan, central vacuum, effluent pump, ejector pump, freestanding freezer, freestanding icemaker, freestanding spa equipment, generator, geothermal heating and cooling system, grinder pump, guest house, jetted hot tub, lawn sprinkler system, lift pump, limited roof-leak repair, pool and spa equipment, pool equipment, premium appliances, premium benefits, premium systems, premium systems plus, service line, septic system, sump pump, swamp cooler, water filtration system, water softener, well pump, wine cooler.
Plan Name
Elite Complete
Service Fee
$70
Monthly Cost
$59
Items covered
Built-in microwave, Ceiling fans, Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Garbage disposal, Oven, Range, Refrigerator, ice maker, and water dispenser, Electrical system, Garage door opener, Air conditioning system, Heating system, Plumbing fixtures, Plumbing stoppages, Plumbing system, Water heater.
Add-on items
annual maintenance, attic exhaust fan, central vacuum, effluent pump, ejector pump, freestanding freezer, freestanding icemaker, freestanding spa equipment, generator, geothermal heating and cooling system, grinder pump, guest house, jetted hot tub, lawn sprinkler system, lift pump, limited roof-leak repair, pool and spa equipment, pool equipment, premium appliances, premium benefits, premium systems, premium systems plus, service line, septic system, sump pump, swamp cooler, water filtration system, water softener, well pump, wine cooler.
Plan Name
Customize Your Own
Service Fee
$70
Monthly Cost
Varies
Add-on items
annual maintenance, attic exhaust fan, central vacuum, effluent pump, ejector pump, freestanding freezer, freestanding icemaker, freestanding spa equipment, generator, geothermal heating and cooling system, grinder pump, guest house, jetted hot tub, lawn sprinkler system, lift pump, limited roof-leak repair, pool and spa equipment, pool equipment, premium appliances, premium benefits, premium systems, premium systems plus, service line, septic system, sump pump, swamp cooler, water filtration system, water softener, well pump, wine cooler.
Average monthly costs: $29.99 - $89.99
American Home Shield was one of the first home warranty companies, having been in business since 1971. It provides three base plans and six add-ons.
What we like
- Offers generous coverage caps
- Allows customers to build their own plans
- Provides the option to choose the service fee you want to pay
What we don't like
- Doesn’t let customers choose their own technician
- Offers limited add-on options
Plan Name
ShieldSilver
Service Fee
$125 - $100
Monthly Cost
$29 - $39
Items covered
Air conditioners, Built-in exhaust/vent/attic fans, Ceiling fans, Doorbells and chimes, Ductwork, Faucets and valves, Garage-door openers, Heating units, Interior electrical lines, Interior plumbing lines, Main breaker and fuse panel box, Toilets, Water heaters, Whirlpool tub motor and components.
Add-on items
Electronics Protection Plan (not available in CA. Provided by Allstate Protection Plans), Pool, Spa, Guest Unit, Septic Pump, Well Pump.
Plan Name
ShieldGold
Service Fee
$125 - $100
Monthly Cost
$49 - $59
Items covered
Air conditioners, Built-in exhaust/vent/attic fans, Built-in microwave ovens, Ceiling fans, Clothes dryers, Clothes washers, Dishwashers, Doorbells and chimes, Ductwork, Faucets and valves, Garage-door openers, Garbage disposals, Heating units, Instant hot/cold water dispensers, Interior electrical lines, Interior plumbing lines, Main breaker and fuse panel box, Ranges/cooktops, Refrigerators, Ovens, Toilets, Water heaters, Whirlpool tub motor and components.
Add-on items
Electronics Protection Plan (not available in CA. Provided by Allstate Protection Plans), Pool, Spa, Guest Unit, Septic Pump, Well Pump.
Plan Name
ShieldPlatinum
Service Fee
$125 - $100
Monthly Cost
$79 - $89
Items covered
Air conditioners, Built-in exhaust/vent/attic fans, Built-in microwave ovens, Ceiling fans, Clothes dryers, Clothes washers, Dishwashers, Doorbells and chimes, Ductwork, Faucets and valves, Garage-door openers, Garbage disposals, Heating units, Instant hot/cold water dispensers, Interior electrical lines, Interior plumbing lines, Main breaker and fuse panel box, Ranges/cooktops, Refrigerators, Roof-leak repairs, Ovens, Toilets, Water heaters, Whirlpool tub motor and components.
Add-on items
Electronics Protection Plan (not available in CA. Provided by Allstate Protection Plans), Pool, Spa, Guest Unit, Septic Pump, Well Pump.
Average monthly costs: $47.00 - $87.00
First American is known for its comprehensive appliance coverage caps. With an Essential or Premium plan that has the First American Advantage upgrade, you could also get coverage for miscellaneous components, including appliance knobs and dials.
What we like
- Allows you to choose your service call fee
- Doesn’t have a coverage cap on heating, cooling, or ductwork
- Accepts 24/7 service calls
- Offers replacement of some covered items that are too damaged to repair
What we don't like
- Doesn’t let customers choose their own contractor
- Charges higher for coverage compared to other providers
Plan Name
Starter Plan
Service Fee
$125 - $75
Monthly Cost
$47 - $67
Items covered
Ductwork, Heating system, Refrigerant, Electrical systems, Plumbing systems, Plumbing stoppages, Toilet tank/bowl/mechanisms, Built-in microwave, Dishwasher, Kitchen range hood, Oven/range/cooktop, Refrigerator.
Add-on items
Additional refrigeration, Central air conditioning, HVAC tune-up, Limited roof-leak, Pool/spa equipment, Septic tank pumping/system, Water softener, Well pump.
Plan Name
Essential Plan
Service Fee
$125 - $75
Monthly Cost
$52 - $72
Items covered
Air conditioning, Ductwork, Heating system, Mini-split ductless systems, Refrigerant, Ceiling/attic/exhaust fans, Electrical systems, Garage door opener, Plumbing systems, Plumbing stoppages, Toilet tank/bowl/mechanisms, Water heaters, Built-in microwave, Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Dishwasher, Kitchen range hood, Oven/range/cooktop, Refrigerator, Trash compactor.
Add-on items
Additional refrigeration, Central air conditioning, HVAC tune-up, Limited roof-leak, Pool/spa equipment, Septic tank pumping/system, Water softener, Well pump.
Plan Name
Premium Plan
Service Fee
$125 - $75
Monthly Cost
$67 - $87
Items covered
Air conditioning, Central vacuum system, Ductwork, Heating system, Mini-split ductless systems, Refrigerant, Registers, grills and filters, Window AC unit, Ceiling/attic/exhaust fans, Electrical systems, Garage door opener, Garage door springs, hinges and transmitters, Faucets, Hose bibs, Install ground-level cleanout, Plumbing systems, Plumbing stoppages, Shower head/shower arm, Toilet tank/bowl/mechanisms, Water heaters, Built-in microwave, Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Dishwasher, Garbage disposal, Instant hot water dispenser, Kitchen range hood, Luxury appliance, Oven/range/cooktop, Refrigerator, Trash compactor.
Add-on items
Additional refrigeration, Central air conditioning, HVAC tune-up, Limited roof-leak, Pool/spa equipment, Septic tank pumping/system, Water softener, Well pump.
Average monthly costs: $38.99 - $66.99
Cinch has some unique home warranty offerings and coverage perks, including homeowners insurance deductible reimbursem*nt. Just like many other companies, it also offers flexible service fees that give you a greater say in your premium.
What we like
- Offers home insurance deductible of $500
- Extends a long 180-day workmanship guarantee
- Provides generous $10,000 aggregate coverage limit
What we don't like
- Charges high service fees of $100-$150
- Doesn’t allow customers to choose their own technician
- Isn’t available in Hawaii or Alaska
Plan Name
Appliances Plan
Service Fee
$150 - $100
Monthly Cost
$38 - $48
Items covered
Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Freestanding ice maker, Microwave (built-in), Range, Range exhaust hood, Refrigerators, Trash compactor (built-in), Wall oven, Air conditioner or refrigerator filter credit, Food center (built-in).
Add-on items
Pool (Heater Included), Spa (Heater Included), Pool with Spa (Heater Included), Septic Tank/Pumping, Well Pump, Premier Upgrade Package.
Plan Name
Built-in Systems Plan
Service Fee
$150 - $100
Monthly Cost
$43 - $55
Items covered
Air conditioning, including ductwork, Central vacuum, Doorbell, Heating system, including ductwork, Attic fans, Ceiling fans, Electrical system, Garage door openers, Smoke detectors, Plumbing system, Sump pump, Toilets, Water heater, Whirlpool/jetted tub (built-in), Air conditioner or refrigerator filter credit, Garbage disposal, Instant hot/cold water dispenser.
Add-on items
Pool (Heater Included), Spa (Heater Included), Pool with Spa (Heater Included), Septic Tank/Pumping, Well Pump, Premier Upgrade Package.
Plan Name
Complete Home Plan
Service Fee
$150 - $100
Monthly Cost
$54 - $66
Items covered
Air conditioning, including ductwork, Central vacuum, Doorbell, Heating system, including ductwork, Attic fans, Ceiling fans, Electrical system, Garage door openers, Smoke detectors, Plumbing system, Sump pump, Toilets, Water heater, Whirlpool/jetted tub (built-in), Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Freestanding ice maker, Microwave (built-in), Range, Range exhaust hood, Refrigerators, Trash compactor (built-in), Wall oven, Air conditioner or refrigerator filter credit, Food center (built-in), Homeowners insurance deductible reimbursem*nt, Garbage disposal, Instant hot/cold water dispenser.
Add-on items
Pool (Heater Included), Spa (Heater Included), Pool with Spa (Heater Included), Septic Tank/Pumping, Well Pump, Premier Upgrade Package.
Average monthly costs: $44.42 - $47.75
Roof leak repair coverage is a rare perk that Select offers to its customers. It's also a good company to keep on your shortlist if affordable premiums are your top priority.
What we like
- Provides low service fees compared to other home warranty providers
- Includes two extra months of coverage in annual signup
- Has an appliance-only, systems-only, and combo plan option
What we don't like
- Has a $75 cancellation fee
- Low coverage caps
Plan Name
Bronze Care Plan
Service Fee
$75
Monthly Cost
$44
Items covered
Built-in microwave, Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Garbage disposal, Refrigerator, Stove/oven.
Add-on items
Central vacuum, Lawn sprinkler system, Pool, Roof leak, Septic system, Spa, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Well pump.
Plan Name
Gold Care Plan
Service Fee
$75
Monthly Cost
$44
Items covered
AC/cooling, Ductwork, Heating system, Plumbing system, Water heater, Electrical system.
Add-on items
Central vacuum, Lawn sprinkler system, Pool, Roof leak, Septic system, Spa, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Well pump.
Plan Name
Platinum Care Plan
Service Fee
$75
Monthly Cost
$47
Items covered
AC/cooling, Ductwork, Heating system, Plumbing stoppages, Plumbing system, Water heater, Ceiling fan, Electrical system, Garage-door openers, Built-in microwave, Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Garbage disposal, Refrigerator, Stove/oven.
Add-on items
Central vacuum, Lawn sprinkler system, Pool, Roof leak, Septic system, Spa, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Well pump.
Cost of a home warranty in South Bend
The typical monthly cost of a home warranty in South Bend ranges from $41 to $70, in line with the national average. If you're paying on an annual basis, expect to spend roughly $563.62–$927.48 per year. To calculate national cost data, we requested hundreds of quotes for 2,000-square-foot, single-family homes across each state that the providers service.
Home warranty coverage
Home warranties protect various home appliances and major systems, but they're not a substitute for homeowners insurance. Below, we'll discuss what's generally covered in a home warranty and what isn't.
What are the typical items covered under a home warranty?
- Built-in microwaves
- Cooktops
- Washing machines
- Refrigerators
- Clothes dryers
- Dishwashers
The first category of items a home warranty covers is kitchen and living appliances. This covers the following: The second coverage category is major systems, which typically consist of the following:
- Central vacuum
- Plumbing
- HVAC
- Water heater
- Electrical
What items are typically not covered under a home warranty?
As with many other service contracts, home warranties won't cover certain components or appliances. These are called exclusions. One common exclusion is breakdowns caused by damage outside normal wear and tear. For example, the warranty would likely not cover an air conditioner malfunctioning due to a dirty air filter, since replacing the filter is a part of routine maintenance.
- Additionally, home warranties won't cover the following:
- Preexisting conditions
- Hazardous waste
- Acts of nature
- Improper system or appliance installation
- Rust or corrosion damage
- Cosmetic damage
Questions to ask home warranty providers in South Bend
We recommend asking each home warranty provider you're considering the following questions about their plans, terms and policies.
What items will my policy cover?
Before asking a home warranty provider for a quote, write down the specific systems and appliances that you need covered. Then, confirm the company has plans meeting your needs. Some companies separate appliance and system coverage into different plans. Many companies also sell optional add-ons, covering things like sump pumps and swimming pools. Consider whether any add-ons fit your situation.
How long is my home warranty good for?
Standard home warranty contracts are valid for 12 months from the coverage effective date, which is usually 30 days after the initial sign-up date. Companies have this 30-day waiting period to prevent customers from filing claims for preexisting conditions. Purchasing a multiyear plan extends protection beyond the standard 12-month term.
What contractors do you work with?
Ask potential home warranty companies about their network of local service contractors. A contractor must have the proper local and state licensing to access the company's network. If your area has no in-network contractors nearby, the warranty company may let you choose your own. You can verify a contractor's license by searching your local or county government database.
How does your claims approval process work?
Knowing more about your warranty company's claims process boosts your chances of getting a claim approved. Most companies accept claims online or via a 24/7 phone line. Once you file, the company will aim to reply within 24 to 48 hours. Filing outside normal business hours may lead to processing delays. If the home warranty company grants initial approval to your claim, they'll match you with a service contractor from their network. The contractor will schedule a consultation with you to examine the appliance firsthand. Once they get final approval from the warranty company, they'll do the repair work and handle billing on your behalf.
Can I transfer my policy to the next owner of my home?
If you need to move, most home warranty contracts include a clause allowing you to transfer the policy to the new homeowner. Some companies handle the transfer at no charge, though others will charge a transfer fee. Home warranty coverage can be reassuring to new homebuyers. Some companies offer sellers special coverage plans that are easily transferred to buyers.
Home warranty contract fine print
Before buying a home warranty, examine the company's sample contracts and policies. Understanding a provider's terms and conditions can help you determine if they're a suitable choice for you. It'll also help you advocate for yourself if you need to file a claim. Look for these key stipulations and clauses:
- Service call fee: Each time you file a claim, the warranty company or repair provider will levy a service call fee between $75 and $125.
- Exclusions: Even if an appliance is covered under your home warranty, it could still have applicable exclusions for certain components. A sample contract should itemize these exclusions.
- Workmanship guarantee: Most workmanship guarantees last for 30 days from a warranty repair, but some companies offer longer guarantee periods. If you have more issues with an appliance that an in-network technician recently attempted to repair for you, the home warranty company won't assess an extra service call fee for a new claim.
- Coverage limit: Your home warranty's coverage limit is the limit on how much the company can pay per claim. A warranty contract could also have other stipulations, like annual coverage limits.
- Cancellation: Companies typically outline how they process cancellations in their fine print. Many providers will refund the entire plan premium if you cancel within the first 30 days of sign-up.
Facts about South Bend
Average High in July
81°F
South Bend
83°F
National Average
Average Low in January
17°F
South Bend
17°F
National Average
Average Daily Sunlight
60%
South Bend
69%
National Average
Our Top Pick
4.5
Our Rating Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
- Extends 60-day workmanship guarantee
- Holds high customer ratings
- Offers customization with 38 add-ons
4.4
Our Rating Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
- Covers rust and corrosion damage
- Offers comprehensive coverage limits
- Provides flexible service fees
Limited Time Offer: 50% Off
3.8
Our Rating Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
- Charges low premiums
- Includes roof-leak coverage
- Offers solid HVAC coverage
Our methodology for selecting home warranty providers
We review national home warranty providers against our full home warranty methodology. We score warranty providers based on coverage options and limits, price, brand reputation, customer service, extra features and availability.
Contact us at
feedback@homefront.usatoday.com
if you have questions or feedback on this article
Editorial note: The name “Homefront” refers to the alliance between USA TODAY and Home Solutions that publishes review, comparison, and informational articles designed to help USA TODAY readers make smarter purchasing and investment decisions about their home. Under the alliance, Homefront provides and publishes research and articles about home service and home improvement topics. Homefront has an affiliate disclosure policy. The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Homefront editorial staff alone (see About Homefront). Homefront adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information. Go back to top
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A home warranty pays for fixing or swapping out your home’s systems and appliances when they fail. Learn more about how a home warranty works in our guide.
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Need extra protection for your systems and appliances? Here’s how to buy a home warranty
This guide on how to buy a home warranty focuses on key factors such as coverage, price and provider reputation.
home warrantyApr. 30
We also have home warranty companies in:
- Burbank
- Chicago
- Elkhart
- Evanston
- Gary
- Goshen
- Grand Rapids
- Hammond
- Indianapolis
- La Porte
- Merrillville
- Michigan City
- Mishawaka
- Munster
- Niles
- Oak Park
- Palos
- Portage
- Portage
- Schererville
- Skokie
- Stickney
- Tinley Park
- Valparaiso
Other services for you in South Bend, Ind.
- Moving
- Air Conditioning Repair
- Deck Building
- Electrical
- Foundation Repair
- Gutter Cleaning
- Gutter Installation
- Gutter Repair
- Lawn Care
- Moving
- Pest Control
- Roof Repair
- Solar Installation
- Tree Removal
- Window Repair
- Window Replacement
