When purchasing a new home, a home warranty can provide peace of mind by covering repairs for appliances, systems, and components that break down. Two big names in the home warranty space are Choice Home Warranty and 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty.
But which of these major home warranty companies provides better coverage, service, and value? This comprehensive guide examines the key differences between Choice and 2-10 to help you pick the right home warranty.
A Brief Comparison Table
Category | Choice Home Warranty | 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty |
Company History | Founded in 1997, based in NJ | Founded in 1980, based in CO |
Coverage | Systems, appliances, optional AC and pool | Structural defects, systems, appliances, electronics |
Plan Options | VIP, systems only, appliances only | Comprehensive structural, systems, appliances |
Item Coverage | Heating/AC, electrical, plumbing, kitchen appliances, washer/dryer | Foundation, roofing, electrical, plumbing, kitchen appliances, HVAC |
Cost | $300 – $700 per year, $75 trade call fee | $300 – $600 per year, $75 deductible |
Claims Process | Call Choice then they dispatch technicians | Call 2-10 and they coordinate technicians |
Customer Satisfaction | 1.5 stars on BBB, complaints about claims | 1 star on BBB, complaints about claim delays |
Pros | Customizable coverage, large contractor network | Structural defect coverage, direct repair coordination |
Cons | Very low BBB rating, claims complaints | Slightly lower satisfaction, claim delays |
Overview of Choice Home Warranty
Choice Home Warranty is a leading name in the home warranty industry in the U.S. and has established a solid reputation since its inception.
Foundation and Location:
Established in 1997, Choice Home Warranty has its headquarters in Edison, New Jersey. Its long-standing presence in the industry signifies trust and reliability.
Coverage Reach:
With a vast network, Choice Home Warranty covers over 500,000 homes across the nation. This extensive reach highlights their capacity to cater to a wide customer base, ranging from homeowners to real estate professionals.
Unique Selling Proposition:
Choice Home Warranty is particularly known for its flexible coverage options. This means that homeowners can tailor their warranty packages based on specific needs, ensuring they pay only for the coverage they desire.
Overview of 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty
2-10 Home Buyers Warranty has a commanding presence in the home warranty sector, providing warranty solutions to a vast number of homes in the U.S.
Foundation and Location:
Founded in 1980, 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty has its main office located in Denver, Colorado. The company has been safeguarding homes for over four decades, showcasing its longevity and commitment to the industry.
Coverage Reach:
Impressively, 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty provides protection for over 1 million homes. This number not only speaks to their extensive network but also their popularity and trustworthiness among homeowners.
Backed By:
The company operates under the strong backing of the Home Buyers Warranty Corporation, adding an extra layer of credibility and stability to its services.
Unique Selling Proposition:
What sets 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty apart is its comprehensive structural coverage. This means that they provide protection not only for appliances and systems but also for the core structure of the home. For homeowners, this provides peace of mind knowing that their home’s very foundation is protected.
Also Read: Comparison Between Old Republic And American Home Shield
Key Differences Between Choice Home Warranty And 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty
Now let’s compare them across several important categories.
1. Coverage Options
Both Choice and 2-10 offer systems, appliances, and structural warranty plans:
Choice Home Warranty Coverage
- VIP Warranty – Covers all home systems + appliances
- Systems coverage only or appliances only plans
- Optional air conditioner and pool coverage
2-10 Home Buyers Warranty Coverage
- Comprehensive structural coverage for defects
- Appliances, systems, and optional electronics plans
- Also offer condo and buyer conversion warranties
2-10 has an edge for structural defects, while Choice provides more flexibility to customize plans.
2. Item Coverage
Here are some of the major items protected under each warranty:
Choice
- Heating and AC systems
- Electrical and plumbing systems
- Oven/stove/cooktop
- Refrigerator
- Washer/dryer
- Water heater
2-10
- Foundation and roofing
- Electrical, plumbing, and ductwork
- Water heater and garbage disposal
- Oven/range/cooktop
- Refrigerator
- Heating and AC system
The coverage is broadly similar for appliances and systems. 2-10 also includes structural components.
3. Costs and Fees
Choice and 2-10 home warranty costs vary depending on factors like location and coverage selected. On average:
- Choice – $300 to $700 per year, plus trade call fees around $75
- 2-10 – $300 to $600 per year, plus $75 trade call fee
The annual costs are comparable. Be sure to get quotes specific to your home.
Claims and Repair Process
Here’s an overview of how the claims and repair process works with each:
- Choice – Call Choice first then they dispatch local technicians. You pay trade call fee.
- 2-10 – Call 2-10 then they coordinate with technicians directly. Pay $75 deductible per claim.
The process is smooth and direct with both companies.
4. Customer Satisfaction
How happy are customers with Choice and 2-10?
- Choice – Over 700 BBB reviews averaging 1.5 stars out of 5, citing claims denials and poor service.
- 2-10 – Over 150 BBB reviews averaging 1 star. Complaints around delays approving claims.
Neither company boasts glowing customer feedback. However, 2-10 earns slightly lower ratings overall.
Also Watch This Review Video:
5. Pros and Cons
Based on this comparison, here are the main pros and cons of each home warranty:
Choice Pros
- Customizable coverage options
- Huge network of local technicians
Choice Cons
- Very low BBB rating
- Frequent complaints around claims process
2-10 Pros
- Comprehensive structural defect coverage
- Direct coordination of repairs
2-10 Cons
- Slightly lower customer satisfaction
- Delays in approving claims
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
2-10 provides decent warranty coverage for major home systems, appliances, and structural defects. However, customers report frustrations with slow claims approval and mixed experiences with repairs. Check BBB reviews locally before purchasing.
A 2-10 home warranty provides coverage for 2 years after closing, and the option to renew for 8 additional years. This covers you during the period when most defects or breakdowns become apparent. Plans have different terms but provide protection long-term.
Yes, Choice Home Warranty provides coverage in California. They have a large network of contractors to handle repairs on covered products and systems in CA. Plans and pricing vary by region.
Professional football player Rob Gronkowski is a brand ambassador and spokesperson for Choice Home Warranty. Gronkowski has appeared in ads and promotions, using his name recognition to boost the Choice brand.
Final Thought
When choosing between Choice and 2-10, keep the following in mind:
- Both offer decent coverage but check inclusions carefully.
- Look at each company’s BBB reviews for your state.
- Ask about the claims process and average repair time.
- Get quotes to compare costs for your specific home.
- Consider optional coverage like electronics and pools if needed.
While neither home warranty company has glowing reviews, Choice may edge out 2-10 slightly based on plan options and contractor network. But check claims experiences in your location before deciding.