Select Home Warranty Platinum Plan: A Deep Dive into Coverage
The Select Home Warranty Platinum Plan is the company’s premier offering, designed to bridge the gap between standard home warranty coverage and the real-world expenses of unexpected breakdowns. Unlike basic plans that cover only core systems, this tier extends protection to high-value appliances and components that often fall through the cracks. For homeowners seeking a blanket of security across a wide range of household equipment, understanding exactly what this plan covers—and what it leaves out—is essential before committing to a contract.
What Systems Does the Platinum Plan Cover That Basic Plans Skip?
The Platinum Plan includes all the usual suspects—heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical—but it adds practical coverage for items many homeowners assume are included in cheaper plans. Here’s a side-by-side comparison of what you get versus what standard tier plans typically exclude:
| Covered Item | Typical Lower-Tier Plans | Select Home Warranty Platinum Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Air conditioning (ductwork and coil) | Yes | Yes |
| Heating system (including boiler) | Yes | Yes |
| Plumbing stoppages (toilets, sinks, main line) | Limited | Full (main line up to 100 ft) |
| Electrical system (panel, wiring) | Limited | Full (with knob-and-tube coverage cap) |
| Refrigerator (including icemaker) | No | Yes |
| Oven/range/cooktop | No | Yes |
| Dishwasher | No | Yes |
| Built-in microwave | No | Yes |
| Washer and dryer (stackable or separate) | No | Yes |
| Garbage disposal | No | Yes |
| Garage door opener (electric) | No | Yes |
| Central vacuum system | No | Yes |
| Attic fan and exhaust fans | No | Yes |
| Water heater (tank or tankless) | Yes | Yes |
| Well pump (submersible or jet) | No | Yes (if included in contract) |
| Sump pump | No | Yes |
| Stand-alone freezer | No | Yes |
Notice how items like stand-alone freezers, icemakers, and well pumps are frequently omitted from entry-level plans. The Platinum Plan treats these as standard inclusions, which can save you hundreds if one fails during ownership.
Are There Limits on Coverage Amounts per Claim?
Yes, and this is where homeowners often overlook the fine print. The Platinum Plan has specific per-item claim caps and aggregate annual maximums. While it pays for covered repairs or replacements, there is a limit on what you can recover per appliance per contract year. For example, a refrigerator covered up to $1,500 per claim means if yours needs a compressor replacement that costs $1,800, you pay the difference. The plan provides a schedule of benefit caps, typically:
- Major appliances (refrigerator, washer): $1,500 per item per claim
- HVAC system: $2,000 per claim (includes compressor, evaporator coil)
- Plumbing system (main line stoppages): $500 per claim
- Electrical system: $500 per claim
- Annual aggregate limit: $3,000 for all claims combined
Understanding these caps directly affects your decision-making. If you own a high-end Sub-Zero refrigerator, the $1,500 ceiling may not be sufficient. In contrast, for standard refrigerators under $2,000, the cap is typically adequate. Always read the coverage schedule in your contract before filing a claim.
How Does the Platinum Plan Handle Pre-Existing Conditions and Wear?
The Platinum Plan explicitly excludes pre-existing conditions—damage or wear that existed before your coverage start date. However, it does cover normal wear and tear of systems and appliances if they have been properly maintained. This is a critical distinction. If a washing machine motor fails because of age (ten years old and used twice weekly), the plan covers it. If the same machine fails due to a rusted drum that was noted in a home inspection before purchase, that is considered pre-existing and denied. A technician’s inspection during the claim process verifies this, so keep maintenance records like annual furnace cleanings or filter changes. Without evidence of routine care, the claim may be rejected even under the Platinum Plan.
What Is the Service Fee Structure for Each Visit?
At the time of writing, the Platinum Plan carries a service call fee of $75 or $100 (depending on your contract selection). This fee is charged per visit, not per item. If a technician diagnoses a malfunctioning dishwasher and a separate problem with the water heater in the same visit, you pay one fee. However, if they must schedule a second trip because parts need ordering, the second trip incurs an additional fee. The plan also offers a lower-fee option ($75) but with a longer waiting period for service (typically 48 hours during business days). For urgent breakdowns like a gas leak or refrigerator failure, selecting the $100 option guarantees a technician within 24 hours. This is an important trade-off worth evaluating when you compare pricing structures in the Select Home Warranty Platinum Plan Pricing: What You Pay vs. What You Get article.
Is the Platinum Plan Worth It for Older Homes (Over 30 Years)?
For homes built before 1995, the Platinum Plan can be a mixed bag. On one hand, it covers older HVAC units and plumbing systems that frequently fail. On the other, it has specific exclusions for systems with knob-and-tube wiring, cast iron plumbing, and older refrigerant types (R-22). The plan typically covers repairs to these systems up to a certain age but caps replacement costs at the amount of a modern equivalent. For example, if your 20-year-old furnace needs a new heat exchanger and the cost is $1,200, the plan will cover it. If the furnace is beyond repair and replacement is needed, they will pay the same $1,200 cap, leaving you responsible for the rest. This makes it more of a safety net for manageable repairs than a full replacement fund. Older homes also face stricter claim scrutiny, so have recent inspection reports ready.
What Owners Say About the Select Home Warranty Platinum Plan
Owner experiences with the Platinum Plan rarely read as a consistent five-star review. Most feedback centers around two themes: the value of covered items and the claim process.
“The icemaker coverage saved us $400.” Several owners report that the icemaker in their refrigerator stopped making ice a year after they moved in. The technician diagnosed a failed motor, and the plan covered the part and labor, minus the service fee. Owners appreciate that such a common appliance is included, unlike many competitors where it is an add-on.
“I didn’t realize my dishwater was covered until it flooded.” Another owner noted that their built-in microwave failed after three years of light use. The cost of a new unit and installation was quoted at $850. After the service fee, they paid only $100 out of pocket. The biggest frustration these owners mention is the time it takes to get an approved contractor—sometimes three to five days for non-emergency claims.
“It’s good for the big stuff, but not for minor leaks.” Some owners with older homes felt that the plan worked well for major failures like a water heater or AC compressor but was less useful for small plumbing leaks or electrical trips. The service fee structure discourages calling for minor issues since the fee can be as high as the repair cost itself. For these homeowners, the plan becomes more of a catastrophic insurance than a maintenance tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does the Platinum Plan cover roof leaks?
No. The Select Home Warranty Platinum Plan covers systems and appliances inside the home. Roof leaks are considered structural and are excluded. You would need a separate home insurance policy or a specialized home warranty add-on.
2. Can I choose my own contractor with the Platinum Plan?
Generally no. Select Home Warranty assigns a contractor from its network. However, if you have a preferred technician who is licensed and insured, you may request a service exception, though approval is not guaranteed.
3. Is there a waiting period before coverage kicks in?
Yes, there is a standard 30-day waiting period for most items, though some emergency claims (like no heat in winter) may have a reduced wait. Read your contract carefully, as coverage begins after this period and after the first service fee is paid.
4. Are there any exclusions for high-end appliances like wine coolers or built-in coffee machines?
Yes, the plan excludes built-in coffee makers, wine coolers, and similar specialty appliances not listed in the coverage schedule. Only the items explicitly named in the contract are covered. Check your specific contract for a complete list.
5. How do I file a claim, and what documents do I need?
Claims are filed online or by phone. You will need your contract number, a description of the problem, and proof of maintenance records (recommended). For a step-by-step process, see the Select Home Warranty Platinum Plan Claim Filing Guide.
6. Is the Platinum Plan transferable if I sell my home?
Yes, the plan is transferable to the new owner for a small fee (typically $75). This can be a selling point when you list your home, as it provides peace of mind to buyers. If you plan to sell, consider whether the plan is worth transferring or if a new owner should purchase their own. For more advice on comparing plans, refer to How to Choose the Best Home Warranty: A Step-by-Step Buying Guide.
