After entering the market in 1974, Old Republic built a reputation for itself by providing inclusive home warranty coverage options and unique add-ons.

Though Old Republic specializes in home warranty plans to complement home sales, any homeowner can benefit from coverage.

Since Old Republic’s pricing is a bit higher than the average and its buying process is confusing, we do not wholeheartedly recommend Old Republic to be one of the top home warranty companies in the country.

Old Republic Home Protection logo
Not Recommended
BBB Rating:
A+
Monthly Cost:
$44-$83
Service Fee:
$85
Coverage Limit:
$3,500

Our Preferred Home Warranty Alternatives

Today’s Homeowner recommends a few home warranty companies to our readers. Below, you’ll see our latest suggestions and their money-saving deals. You can also read our review of the companies with similar home warranty plans to learn more about these top picks.

Best Coverage Limits
American Home Shield Logo
VISIT SITE
Limited Time:
40% Off Our Most Popular Plan
Our Top Pick
Best for Customization
VISIT SITE
Limited Time:
$200 Off + 2 Months free + Free Roof Leak Coverage
Best Customer Ratings
VISIT SITE
Limited Time:
$150 Off + 1 Month Free
Best Claims Acceptance
choice home warranty logo
VISIT SITE
Limited Time:
$50 Off + 1 month free!

Our Review of Old Republic Home Warranty

Old Republic Home Protection is a solid choice for a home warranty provider, offering higher-than-average annual coverage limits on the 20-plus items included as part of its most- affordable policy. Homeowners can file a claim online and track its status, which can be helpful for property owners on the go. While buying a home warranty from Old Republic can be confusing and pricing is higher than that of some competitors, it may be worth the extra cost for buyers moving into an expensive property.

What We Liked

Old Republic Home Warranty offers a range of plans and includes both appliances and home systems on its most affordable plan (Essential). Policyholders can add coverage for uncommon home features (like ornamental fountains or outdoor kitchens) for just a few dollars extra each month, earning additional marks from us.

Old Republic also scores points for its generous upgrade options. Plan holders can increase their limit on appliances by $3,500 annually for less than $10 a month, and coverage for other add-ons is generous, inclusive, and reasonably priced.

What We Didn’t Like

Old Republic Home Warranty loses points for its confusing terminology and limited coverage for sellers. The company states that most of its plans are designed to be purchased in conjunction with a home sale, and Old Republic differentiates coverage depending on whether the person buying the plan is the buyer or seller (some sellers or real estate agents will buy a policy to encourage a higher selling price — the seller will then transfer ownership to the buyer when the sale closes). This can lead to confusion and coverage discrepancies for homeowners just looking to buy a policy for a home they live in.

While most of Old Republic’s plans will work seamlessly for most homeowners moving into a new property, some homeowners may find the Essential protection plan too limited to be useful — for example, this plan does not include coverage for a kitchen refrigerator or a washer/dryer set.

What We Liked

Old Republic earns average scores when it comes to affordability. The average price of a home warranty is generally between $45 and $65 per month, which amounts to $540 to $780 per year. Old Republic’s plans cost between $44 and $83 per month in most areas, which is on the higher end of the spectrum. However, the company’s higher-than-average coverage limits of $3,500 per appliance may make this extra cost worth the price.

Old Republic’s pricing is highly varied by location, but remains in line with industry standards in most areas. Old Republic’s common $85 service fee is also average — some competitors, like American Home Shield, may charge service fees as high as $125.

What We Didn’t Like

Old Republic’s affordability varies widely depending on where you live. For example, homeowners in California may pay less than $400 annually for essential-level coverage, while the same plan costs more than $500 in North Carolina. These price differences can make shopping for coverage frustrating if price is your primary concern when considering home warranty providers.

What We Liked

Old Republic Home Protection allows you to view a full contract for your state before buying, which you can download and compare to those of competitors. Most of Old Republic’s customers are involved in a home sale, so the company offers distinct plan coverage options depending on whether you’re a seller or a buyer. This plan selection method can be especially useful for real estate professionals.

Old Republic’s plans include a 30-day waiting period, which is standard in the industry. ORHP also offers an online portal you can use to file claims and manage coverage, which benefits tech-forward homeowners.

What We Didn’t Like

The process of buying a home warranty from ORHP is exceptionally frustrating. Each state’s coverage is individualized with its own limits, which are laid out in a lengthy policy document. Limitations are not made clear on ORHP’s website, and distinctions between seller and buyer coverage are not always made clear. Unless you’re familiar with the components that make up each appliance and system in your home, evaluating coverage is challenging.

Overall, Old Republic Home Warranty makes it more difficult than other home warranty companies to fully understand what is and isn’t covered on each plan. If you’re looking for a quick sign-up, Old Republic Home Warranty might not be the best choice for you.

What We Liked

Old Republic Home Protection is accredited with the Better Business Bureau, and maintains an A+ company rating on its profile. The company’s nearly 50 years in business gives homeowners peace of mind when they buy coverage.

What We Didn’t Like

Old Republic loses points due to its relatively high volume of customer complaints. The home warranty provider has seen more than 1,200 BBB complaints in the past three years alone. Most deal with Old Republic refusing to provide sufficient coverage or replacements during home breakdowns. 

What We Liked

Old Republic earns points for its streamlined claims process, which you can complete online or over the phone. Claims processing is available 24 hours a day seven days a week, and customers can track the status of their claims by logging in to their ORHP portal.

What We Didn’t Like

Unlike some competitors, Old Republic does not offer the option to add guaranteed emergency response coverage for an extra fee. Its standard processing time for claims is 48 hours or less, which is customary in the home warranty industry.

What We Liked

Old Republic offers plans in 29 states, including most of the Southern U.S. It also offers coverage in Hawaii, which is sometimes excluded by even the best home warranty companies.

What We Didn’t Like

Old Republic Home Protection is currently not available in the following states:

  • Alaska
  • Minnesota
  • Montana
  • Nebraska
  • New Jersey
  • New York
  • North Dakota
  • Pennsylvania
  • Rhode Island
  • South Dakota
  • Vermont
  • Connecticut
  • West Virginia
  • Wisconsin
  • Delaware
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Iowa
  • Maine
  • Massachusetts
  • Michigan

What are the Old Republic Plans and Coverage Options?

Old Republic’s plans are all priced annually, and pricing and availability vary by state. ORHP offers four plan options in most states, but availability will vary. Each state also has its own trade call fee, and ORHP does not allow homeowners to customize it. While sorting through plan options may be a bit confusing, most of ORHP’s coverage options are competitively priced and include both home systems and a host of appliances.

While specific pricing varies by state, most homeowners can expect to pay between $500 and $1,000 annually for coverage.

Service FeeEssential CoverageStandard ProtectionUltimate ProtectionPlatinum Protection
$85$535$655$715$855

Quotes listed in the tables above were collected on 3/23/2023 for a single-family residence in North Carolina on a one-year contract term. Claim your free quote to learn more about pricing in your state or area.

Essential: The Essential plan is ORHP’s most basic offering, covering a range of 23 home systems and appliances, including plumbing stoppages, rekeying services and HVAC ductwork and systems for home buyers. The Essential plan is Old Republic’s most affordable option, and it provides sufficient coverage for most investor-owned properties. Notable exclusions include the kitchen refrigerator.

Standard: The Standard plan includes coverage for all systems and appliances found on the essential plan plus a washer and dryer combo and refrigerator. This protection plan can be a valuable option for homeowners looking for full protection for their residence.

Ultimate: The Ultimate plan covers everything found on the Standard plan and extends coverage to include additional components on each system. For example, the Ultimate plan extends coverage on plumbing systems to include faucets, valves, showerheads, and other items excluded from Standard coverage. This plan also extends coverage to include things like code upgrades, the removal of old systems and appliances, refrigerant recapture, and improperly installed appliances.

Platinum: Platinum plan coverage is ORHP’s most comprehensive, covering everything on the Ultimate plan plus increased coverage for repairs needed to comply with code, specific air conditioning and heating system fixes, and increased coverage for a manufacturer’s warranty. It also covers issues resulting from improper installation of systems and appliances. This coverage can be ideal for buyers moving into a home that’s in unknown condition.

Home System or ApplianceEssential Protection PlanStandard Protection PlanUltimate Protection PlanPlatinum Protection Plan
Electrical Systems    
Built-in exhaust, vent and attic fan
Ceiling fan
Doorbell and chimesXXXX
Garage door opener
Interior electrical lines
Main breaker and fuse panel box
Heating and Cooling Systems    
Air conditioner
Ductwork
Heating unit
Plumbing Systems and Accessories    
Faucets and valvesXX
Interior plumbing lines
Toilets
Water heater
Whirlpool bathtub motor and components
Kitchen Appliances    
Built-in microwave
Cooktop/range
Dishwashers
Garbage disposal
Ice makerX
Instant hot/cold water dispenser
RefrigeratorsX
Stove/ovens
Laundry Appliances    
Clothes dryersX
Clothes washersX
Roof    
Roof leak repairOptional add-onOptional add-onOptional add-onOptional add-on

Plans from Old Republic Home Protection are normally purchased as part of a real estate transaction. Coverages above reflect home buyer coverage.  If you are not involved in a resale transaction, plan fees and terms may vary. Contact a local ORHP professional to learn more about options in your state. Pre-existing conditions are not covered for homes not going through a real estate transaction.

Other options you can find below if you are in a hurry:

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American Home Shield Logo
VISIT SITE
Limited Time:
40% Off Our Most Popular Plan
Our Top Pick
Best for Customization
VISIT SITE
Limited Time:
$200 Off + 2 Months free + Free Roof Leak Coverage
Best Customer Ratings
VISIT SITE
Limited Time:
$150 Off + 1 Month Free
Best Claims Acceptance
choice home warranty logo
VISIT SITE
Limited Time:
$50 Off + 1 month free!

What Optional Add-ons Does Old Republic Home Protection Offer?

Old Republic Home Protection allows property owners, sellers, and real estate agents to customize coverage with add-ons described below in North Carolina. Each add-on comes with its own additional premium, which is paid annually.

Add-on availability, pricing, and coverage limits may vary by state. Note that if you’re buying a plan for a home that is not currently going through a sale, you must buy add-on protection at the time of coverage purchase.

Add-OnCost Per Month
Additional refrigeration units ($1,000 total limit)$4.16
Appliance limit upgrade (increases upper limit on appliances to $3,500 per contract term)$8.33
Enhanced slab leak and external plumbing blockages ($1,000 limit for each)$8.33
Limited roof leak repair ($1,000 limit)$8.33
Pre-season HVAC systems tune-up$2.08
Ornamental fountain, motor, and pond ($500 limit)$8.33
Outdoor kitchen ($1,000 limit)$10.41
Saltwater pool circuit board and cell ($1,500 annual limit)$16.66
Septic system and sewer ejector pump ($500 limit each)$6.25
Water softener and filtration system ($500 limit annually)$6.25
Well pump ($1,500 limit)$8.33

Does Old Republic Home Warranty Have Any Exclusions?

All home warranty plans have policy exclusions, which are specific events and appliance or system components repairs that the provider will not pay for. Reviewing these limitations gives you a more in-depth understanding of when you can use your coverage and qualify for a reimbursement.

Some of the major exclusions you’ll find across Old Republic’s policies include the following:

  • Cosmetic defects that don’t affect the function of the appliance or system
  • Damage caused by people, pets, or pests
  • Repairs required due to damage from natural disasters, flooding, or any other non-routine cause
  • Repairs required due to missing components or equipment, lack of capacity of the existing system or appliance, or mismatched components
  • Routine maintenance
  • Solar systems and components, including water heater holding tanks
  • Specific components of each included item (for example, damage to the door of your
  • garage door opener system)

Review your state’s policy brochure by clicking here to read more about policy coverages in your state.


Does Old Republic Have Any Coverage Limits?

Like other home warranty providers, Old Republic has instituted a series of coverage limits on specific items. Home warranty coverage limits represent the total dollar amount that your home warranty provider will pay in total to repair or replace each item per contract term. Coverage limits dictate the usefulness and value of your plan, so it’s important to know the limits in place before you buy a plan.

Old Republic Home Protection includes an individual per-item limit of $3,500 coverage annually on most systems and appliances. This is higher than many other home warranty providers, making Old Republic’s plans more valuable. For example, competitor Choice Home Warranty provides an upper coverage limit of $3,000 on most items, while Liberty Home Guard customers receive just $2,000 worth of coverage annually.

Limits are the same on all plan types, and are as follows (for buyer’s coverage):

Covered ItemCoverage Limit
Air transfer system ductwork$500
All appliances$3,500
Cooling and heating system$1,500
Plumbing pipe leaks$500

Old Republic also excludes specific components from coverage on all plans. The following are universal exclusions under standard coverage:

  • Air conditioning systems: Timers/clocks that do not affect the heating/cooling operation of the unit; vents; flues; fuel storage tanks; freestanding/window units; cable heat; zone controls and respective equipment; secondary drain pan; duct insulation; dampers; filters; diagnostic testing of, locating, and/or repairing leaks in ductwork (as required by any federal, state or local regulation, or when required due to the installation or replacement of system equipment); fireplaces and key valves; grain, wood, or pellet stoves; use of cranes or other lifting equipment to repair or replace units/system components; electronic air filters/cleaners; humidifiers and respective equipment; chillers and respective equipment; condensate drain pump; inaccessible heat pump refrigerant/condensate lines; Smart Vents and the like. Coverage does not apply if the system is undersized relative to the square footage of the area being heated or cooled.
  • Plumbing system: Fixtures; bidets; faucets; Roman tub valves/faucets; showerheads, handles, arms; hose bibbs; washer boxes; multi-valve manifolds and other attachments to pipes; gas log lighter; toilet lids and seats; water heater vents and flues; shower pans; stoppages due to roots or foreign objects; leaks/damage caused by roots; stoppages that cannot be cleared with cable or hydro jetting; flow restrictions in supply lines; water heater heat pump attachment; holding, storage or expansion tanks; bathtub jets; tub spout or tub spout diverter; steam showers/rooms and associated equipment; shower towers; thermostatic valves; spray arms; basket strainer; fire suppression systems; pop-up assemblies; noises or odors without a related malfunction; caulking or grouting; inadequate or excessive water pressure; remotes. In the event of a stoppage: access to drain lines from vent; removal of toilet; costs to locate, access, or install a ground level clean-out; stoppages in supply lines or drain lines for sprinkler, irrigation, landscape and pool/spa equipment.
  • Electrical coverage: Light fixtures, including those on ceiling fans; bulbs; ballasts; heat lamps; doorbells; telephone, audio, video, computer, intercom, and alarm security wiring and systems; low voltage relay systems; smoke detectors; power surges; remote controls; vents; light sockets; meter.
  • Garage door opener: Garage doors; hinges; springs; remote transmitters; key pads; light sockets; door cables; balancing the door; rollers.
  • Central vacuum cleaner: Attachments; removable components; accessories; hoses; vents; stoppages.
  • Rekeying service: Sliding doors; garage door openers; replacement of deadbolts, knobs, or associated hardware; replacement of locks for any reason; padlocks; gate, window, file cabinet, safe, desk, or mailbox locks; or any other services provided by a locksmith.
  • Kitchen refrigerator: Filter; interior thermal shell; food spoilage; insulation; multi-media centers; wine vaults; cost of recapture or disposal of refrigerant; refrigerator/oven combination units; components that do not affect the primary function of the unit, such as coffeemakers, hot water dispensers, etc.; kegerator; walk-in refrigerator; drain pans; freezers that are separate from kitchen refrigerator.
  • Washer/dryer combo: Plastic mini-tub; venting; filter; lint screen; all-in-one-tub, wash/dry unit; soap/bleach dispenser.
  • All other appliances: Baskets; detachable components; dials; door glass; drawers; filters; flues; handles; interior lining; knobs; light sockets; light switches; lights; lock and key assemblies; microwave/cooktop drawer or range drawer combination unit; pans; portable or freestanding microwave; racks; refrigerator/oven combination unit; remote controls and respective equipment; rollers; runner guards; sensi-heat burners; shelves; timers, clocks, and vents that do not affect the functioning of the appliance; trash compactor buckets; trays; trim kits.
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Best Customer Ratings
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Best Claims Acceptance
choice home warranty logo
VISIT SITE
Limited Time:
$50 Off + 1 month free!

Old Republic Home Protection Customer Reviews

To help you get a better sense of the experience Old Republic customers have with their plans, we looked at more than 100 customer reviews from third-party sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot. Overall, ORHP maintains a largely positive reputation online, with customers impressed by the consistency of service. However, some homeowners found themselves waiting longer than expected to receive service.

Positive Reviews of Old Republic Home Protection

Customers who reported a positive experience with Old Republic Home Protection regularly reported that the technician they were assigned when placing a claim was courteous and professional. Many homeowners reported that they were relieved after their appointment, as they received an immediate fix for the problem at hand.

“Complicated problem with my washing machine was handled and I am satisfied. Having local repair companies to call on for a repair is a big plus for Old Republic. Old Republic went out of their way to see that the repair was completed. I would highly recommend them.”

M. Ward, 3/22/2023.

Negative Reviews of Old Republic Home Protection

Most negative customer reviews of Old Republic Home Protection detail a lack of communication between contractors and Old Republic. Various reviews mention longer-than-average waits for appointments and return calls.

“Been waiting for over seven weeks for a repair on my dishwasher. We have called numerous times and keep getting different answers. Call this morning indicated that they haven’t even begun to work the claim…””

M. Henderson, 3/20/2023.

“No plumber in my area had to wait days and days finally had to get my own plumber. This is twice as has happened now and I live in Baltimore so it shouldn't be that hard to find a plumber in that area.”

E. Shifflett, 3/20/2023

How To File a Claim With Old Republic Home Warranty

When you need to use your home warranty coverage, you’ll need to file a claim with Old Republic using the steps detailed below.

  1. Document the damaged item. You may want to take photos that cover exterior damage or components that you can see need to be replaced, if possible.
  2. File a claim over the phone or online. Use your Old Republic Home Warranty homeowner’s portal to submit the repair request over the internet or call 800-972-5985.
  3. Wait for the underwriting process to close. If you qualify for a repair, an ORHP representative will contact you to schedule an appointment with a partner provider.
  4. Pay your service request fee when you receive service.

Old Republic Home Protection Vs. Other Home Warranty Companies

ProviderBest forMonthly CostService FeeBBB Rating*Year FoundedCompany Reviews
Old Republic Home ProtectionHigh coverage limits$45 to $65 per month$75 to $85A+1974This review
Liberty Home GuardMost Customizable$49.99–$69.99 per month$65–$125A-2017Read our Liberty Home Guard Review.
Select Home WarrantyValue$42 to $48 per month$60 to $75B-2012Read our review of Select Home Warranty
American Home ShieldBest for First-Time Homeowners$49.99–$99.99$75–$125B1971Read our American Home Shield Review.
Choice Home WarrantyClaims acceptance rate$46 to $54 per month$85F2009Read our review of Choice Home Warranty
* Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings are accurate as of March 2023.

Is Old Republic Home Warranty Worth It for You?

Overall, Old Republic Home Warranty offers a wealth of inclusions in its home warranty coverage. The company offers a $3,500 upper limit on most items for home buyers, which can give you peace of mind if you’re buying a property that you don’t have maintenance records for. While Old Republic’s home warranty plans are priced on the higher end of the industry average, they may be worth it for first time buyers looking for higher coverage limits before an upcoming move.

Not sure if Old Republic is right for you? Explore additional home warranty review links and get a free quote from major names in the industry using the table below.

Best Coverage Limits
American Home Shield Logo
VISIT SITE
Limited Time:
40% Off Our Most Popular Plan
Our Top Pick
Best for Customization
VISIT SITE
Limited Time:
$200 Off + 2 Months free + Free Roof Leak Coverage
Best Customer Ratings
VISIT SITE
Limited Time:
$150 Off + 1 Month Free
Best Claims Acceptance
choice home warranty logo
VISIT SITE
Limited Time:
$50 Off + 1 month free!

FAQs About Old Republic Home Protection

How long does the Old Republic Home Warranty last?

New contracts from Old Republic can be purchased with terms of one to two years. Coverage limits reset annually.


What is the difference between an Old Republic home warranty and homeowners insurance?

Old Republic’s home warranty plans were designed to cover repairs and replacements needed as a result of everyday wear-and-tear on your systems or appliances — not to cover perils like fires and electrical surges included under your homeowners insurance coverage. A home warranty will also not cover the physical structure of your home like insurance does.


Does Old Republic cover washer and dryer?

The only Old Republic plan that does not include washer-dryer coverage is the Essential plan. All other coverage plan choices include $3,500 annual coverage for a washer-dryer combo.



Methodology: How We Rank Home Warranty Companies

At Today’s Homeowner, we strive to bring you the most transparent, accurate information for your home improvement projects. Our home warranty company ratings emphasize what matters most to you — whether you’re looking for low-cost coverage, a hassle-free repair process, 24/7 assistance, or all of the above.

Our ratings are based on publicly available information about each company, secret shopping online and over the phone, customer-review analysis, and discussions with real estate professionals and repair contractors.

A company can earn a maximum of 100 points across six categories converted to a five-star scale. We researched more than 60 home warranty providers to develop the following formula:

  • Plans and Coverage (24 points): A home warranty provider can earn the maximum point value in this category if it offers multiple robust plans that cover all basic systems and appliances and optional add-on coverage. We give bonus points to companies that cover uncommon items, such as electronics and roof leaks.
  • Affordability (22.5 points): When evaluating costs, we not only consider monthly plan prices, but we also take into account the cost of add-on coverage, service fees, and whether companies offer free cancellation periods or money-back guarantees. If a provider allows potential customers to view sample contracts before getting a quote, that transparency earns more points in this category.
  • Customer Experience (18.5 points): A home warranty company must give its customers ample support when they experience issues. We gauge overall support by looking at customer reviews and conducting homeowner surveys. We also go through the quotes process with each company and take meticulous notes about the friendliness of salespeople, how detailed each quote is, and how often the provider contacts us after giving a quote.
  • Company Reputation (17.5 points): In this category, we look at a combination of customer reviews and reputable organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB). We also consider the years of company experience, how satisfied its employees are, and whether it has been hit with any consumer rights violations or lawsuits.
  • Claims Process (12.5 points): We score providers highly when they offer short response times, multiple ways to file claims, and around-the-clock availability. Companies can earn bonus points if they have a good reputation for quick and easy claims processing.
  • Availability (5 points): Providers that serve more areas can have experience dealing with a wider range of homeowner headaches. A company earns the maximum points in this category if it offers services in most U.S. states.

We monitor company data on an ongoing basis to keep rankings and information up to date.


Editorial Contributors
avatar for Sarah Horvath

Sarah Horvath

Contributor

Sarah Horvath is a senior-level home service review professional with more than 10 years of experience in the homeownership industry. You can find her writing on sites like Robinhood, MoneyLion, Benzinga, Forbes Advisor, and more. When she's not busy writing, Sarah enjoys spending time in her home in Orlando with her fiance and her parrot.

Learn More

photo of Andrew Dunn

Andrew Dunn

Senior Editor

Andrew Dunn is a veteran journalist with more than 15 years of experience reporting and editing for local and national publications, including The Charlotte Observer and Business North Carolina magazine. His work has been recognized numerous times by the N.C. Press Association and the Society of American Business Editors and Writers. He is also a former general contractor with experience with cabinetry, finish carpentry and general home improvement and repair. Andrew earned a degree in journalism from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, as well as a certificate in business journalism. He lives in Charlotte, N.C.

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