Best Home Warranty Companies in Hawaii

It can be disheartening to purchase a home in Hawaii and realize a few months later that the air conditioning or plumbing doesn’t work. With a home warranty, you’ll be able to rest easy knowing important items in your home are covered and you won’t have to worry about finding the best technician for your repair and replacement needs.

If you’re looking for the top home warranty in Hawaii, keep reading to learn about the top companies in the state and how to choose a protection plan that’s right for you and your home.

Hawaii’s best home warranty companies

Hawaii (HI), also known as the Aloha State, joined the United States in 1959 and is the only state to be composed entirely of islands. The state is known for its clean, urban lifestyle and a plethora of beaches, parks, golf courses, and hiking.

Hawaii consists of over 100 islands. There are eight main islands, seven of which have inhabitants. Hawaii is the largest of the islands, the other seven include Maui, Oahu, Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Niihau, and Kahoolawe. Hawaii’s capital is Honolulu on the island of Oahu, the 8th smallest and 11th least populated island.

Hawaii is the only state in which coffee is commercially grown and more than one-third of the world’s supply of pineapples comes from the state. Another fun fact: Hawaii’s tallest mountain is Mauna Kea (13,796 ft). If it were measured from the base of the mountain (which is connected to the floor of the Pacific Ocean), it would be taller than Mount Everest.

A warm tropical climate houses public beaches, amazing views, and diverse natural scenery. Temperatures range from summer highs of 88 degrees Fahrenheit to 83 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter. Temperatures rarely dip below 65 degrees Fahrenheit at night. Typically, Hawaii follows a wet (October to April) and dry season (May to October).

Hawaii’s culture is influenced by native Hawaiian culture, North American, and East Asian cultures. There is also no ethnic majority is Hawaii; the population is broken down as follows: Caucasians 34%; Japanese-American about 32%; Filipino-American about 16%, and Chinese-Americans about 5%.

Regarding housing, Hawaii has the least affordable market in the country. The median home value is $600,000. Buyers from domestic states like California and Arizona, and international countries such as Russia, China, Germany, Japan, and Canada, flock to Hawaii’s serene lifestyle. With determined investors from both domestic and international markets, there’s simply not enough housing inventory in Hawaii to satisfy the demand, driving swift competition.

Top home maintenance problems in Hawaii

The top home maintenance problems in Hawaii are caused by its tropical climate. Homeowners face issues with heat and humidity, wind, rust, and termites.

Heat and humidity

Hawaii’s climate produces a consistent 80-degree temperature all year long. This can lead to excess wear and tear on roofing, where the sun and heat can warp and split shingles. Excessive humidity can cause mold and mildew to build up inside your home as moisture-rich winds blow through your windows.

Wind

While the wind in Hawaii generally creates a relaxing breeze, the state is not a stranger to tropical storms. To prevent damage, size overhangs appropriately, frequently inspect your roof, trim tree branches, and properly space hurricane clips.

Rust

Salt-laced winds and dust can quickly corrode exposed metal like screws and nails. Eliminating aluminum windows and corroded fasteners will keep your home from becoming victim to rust. Pressure washing your house once a year after the winter season will also keep salt and dust from accumulating.

Termites

Termites spread during calm, humid nights, which are common in Hawaii’s climate. If you think you have termites, look for sand-sized droppings near wood or mud tubes along boards. Indirect signs of termites include roof leaks, paint blisters, door sags, and electrical issues.

Who is eligible for a home warranty in Hawaii?

All homeowners are eligible for a home warranty plan in Hawaii. Homeowners can obtain a home warranty on their own accord or receive one as part of their contract when purchasing a home. Home warranty plans are mentioned in section J-6 of the Purchase Contract for the Hawaii Association of REALTORS Standard Form. 

This section states, “The Buyer may obtain a home warranty from a third party for a fee. This is completely optional and to be paid at the Buyer’s expense.”

What is covered under a Hawaii home warranty?

Home warranties cover different home systems and appliances depending on the plan you choose and the company you work with. Our top four companies all have combination plans that cover important home systems and appliances.

American Home Shield (Combo Plan)

American Home Shield (AHS) was founded in 1971. It provides repair services to over one million customers and has thousands of qualified contractors and technicians in their network. If you’re looking for a home warranty for a duplex, triplex, fourplex, single-family home, townhome, condo, manufactured home, or mobile home, American Home Shield has you covered.

MORE: Read our complete American Home Shield Review

The Home Service Club (Comprehensive Plan)

The Home Service Club provides quick turnaround claim service and coverage starts after a short, 10-day waiting period.

MORE: Read our Home Service Club Review

Select Home Warranty (Platinum Care)

Select Home Warranty can provide you with coverage for your mobile home. Plus, their deductibles are low so you won’t have to worry about coming up with high out-of-pocket costs.

MORE: Read our comprehensive Select Home Warranty Review

Total Home Protection (Platinum)

Total Home Protection is the best home warranty for those looking for septic system coverage.

MORE: Read our Total Home Protection Review

How much does a home warranty cost in Hawaii?

The average cost of a basic coverage plan ranges between $350–$600 a year. The cost of an enhanced plan would be $100–$500 more depending on the desired amount of additional coverage. 

How does a home warranty work in Hawaii?

When covered items break down, follow these steps:

1. Request service through your warranty company (either online or by calling).
2. Submit payment for your service call fee (if applicable).
3. The home warranty contacts one of their licensed contractors on your behalf.
4. The licensed contractor contacts you directly to schedule an appointment.
5. During the appointment, the contractor will diagnose the problem and verify the next steps with the home warranty company.
6. If the home warranty company deems the repair or replacement covered by your plan, they will give the go-ahead to the contractor to fix the problem.
7. A follow-up customer service call is customary to make sure you’re satisfied with the repair or replacement.

Why is a home warranty in Hawaii necessary?

Most of the real estate being sold in Hawaii is being sold “as is.” This means that the seller can disclose quirks about the house but are under no obligation to fix them before the sale. Even when purchasing a home with a detailed home inspection report, you’ll receive only an overview of any issues that the inspector finds on that day.

Since homes in Hawaii are sold as-is, if a major repair needs to be financed shortly after purchasing the home, that cost will be on your shoulders. By purchasing a home warranty, you can have peace of mind that your new home’s systems and appliances are covered.

Buying a home warranty in Hawaii

When buying a home warranty in Hawaii, think about your budget, the cost of the plans (including service fees), and what type of coverage you’re looking for.

Cost

The home warranty company and plan you choose will determine your annual cost of the home warranty. Square footage of your home, climate, and other factors will also affect the overall cost. We encourage you to gather multiple quotes and recommendations from local friends and family before choosing a home warranty company.

Service fees

Some home warranty plans charge service fees for sending a service contractor to your home, while others do not. This information should be visible in your quote or easily answered by a phone call to the warranty company. Check with the company to see if there are additional fees for filing a claim during busy seasons or in the middle of the night.

Coverage

Home warranty coverage can vary based on company and plan. Always check the fine print before choosing a warranty company. Some contracts state that certain components of home systems and appliances are covered while other parts are not.

Additionally, inquire about coverage caps in your home warranty. If you have multiple claims in the same year, make sure the total coverage is enough to repair or replace your current home systems and appliances.

Hawaii home warranty reviews

Reviews of home warranties in Hawaii state that it’s easy to submit a service request call. Hawaii residents are generally happy with the short amount of time it takes to get a licensed contractor to look at their issue.

Common complaints include denials for overall replacement and aggressive salespeople.

Our conclusion

Since Hawaii’s housing market is a hot ticket for investors, the inventory can’t compete with demand. Due to the easy sell, most homes are being sold as-is. Even with a thorough home inspection, there will still be unexpected costs.

Whether you choose a plan from American Home Shield, The Home Service Club, Select Home Warranty, or Total Home Protection, purchasing a home warranty can provide peace of mind as your home ages.