If you're getting started on a home renovation or constructing a new house, considering the expertise of an architect is a smart move.
These experts do more than just draw up plans; they can manage many aspects throughout the entire construction process, which frees you to focus on other aspects of your life.
But, what should you expect to invest when hiring an architect?
Architect fees tend to vary depending on your project’s complexity and the typical rates for these services in your area. They can fluctuate based on the project's complexity, the scope of work, and prevailing rates for architect's services in your locality.
They found that most architects structure fees around deliverables like detailed drawings and architectural plans, but they also often factor in everything from land surveys to site visits and design revisions.
What Does An Architect Do?
Good architects bring your home visions to life, and great ones will often exceed your original expectations.
When you begin working with an architect, the process generally begins with an initial project consultation. This consultation involves discussing your ideas, expanding on them so the architect has a clear understanding of what you expect.
If you decide to move forward after the consultation, your architect will handle many different aspects of the construction process. Below are the typical responsibilities of an architect.
Design Homes And Handle Remodeling Projects
Residential architects specialize in designing homes, both from scratch and as remodels or additions to existing homes.
To get started, your architect will ask questions about how you live, why you want to remodel or build and, if you're remodeling, how you live in your home and what's currently not working for you. Your pro will likely also want to see examples of homes you like.
“I tell every single person … to start a Houzz account and do an ideabook,” says Rick McDermott of RDM Architecture in Kansas City, Missouri. The architect will use all this information to come up with ideas that ultimately become a finalized plan.
Visit And Analyze Your Construction Site
Architects conduct detailed evaluations of potential building sites to determine the optimal placement of your home. This analysis makes sure your project meets requirements established by local building codes.
This work is called a site visit, or a site analysis. During a site visit, architects assess several different aspects of your property:
Topography and Geology: They examine the landscape’s contours and identify slopes, flat areas, and geological features that could make completing the project challenging.
Vegetation and Ecology: Many architects consider how to preserve native plant and animal life with minimal ecological disruption.
Soil Quality and Stability: Understanding the soil types on your build site helps plan the foundation and landscaping, which must be done properly to create structural stability and help with long-term construction cost management.
Climate and Orientation: They consider factors like prevailing winds and sunlight, which are vital for planning natural ventilation and positioning outdoor spaces to limit your exposure to harsh weather.
A strategic assessment helps to make sure that the design process is informed by a clear idea of the land’s characteristics, so you end up with a custom house plan that is both functional and harmonious with its surroundings.
Document Your Home's Features (For Remodeling Projects)
Before initiating a remodel, it's important to fully which structural elements your home contains as well as where they are. Your architect will determine the locations of key systems like electrical wiring and HVAC before moving forward with a renovation project.
Architects meticulously record the existing layout and condition of your home. They do so by producing comprehensive architectural drawings that include both interior and exterior details, and by providing cross-sectional views to pinpoint crucial structural elements.
This thorough documentation makes it easier to obtain a building permit, to make sure changes adhere to building codes, and to stay within construction cost estimates provided by senior architects.
These drawings also make avoiding construction defects simple while serving as critical references throughout the entire project that help manage budget and project scope effectively.
Provide Construction Documents And Building Plans
Architects are pivotal in creating detailed construction documents that serve as blueprints for your building project. The process starts with an initial design concept and progresses through to comprehensive plans verified by a structural engineer.
In designing a home, architects pay attention to both the broad strokes and the small details, such as the endpoints of moldings or the transitions between different flooring materials.
These plans include precise construction drawings for elements like kitchen walls, cabinetry layouts, and backsplash tiles, so you know that every detail will connect seamlessly.
As architects navigate through this intricate design phase, they'll help you understand the depth of these plans before finalizing any agreements.
Select Building Materials And Finishes
An architect plays a crucial role in specifying the types and exact products used throughout your home. This ranges from essential technical components, such as roofing materials, to aesthetic choices like wall paint and finishes.
Architects meticulously choose everything that forms part of your home's interior and exterior environment. They ensure that all materials meet your desired quality standards without sacrificing elements of your design philosophy.
On top of selecting fixtures and finishes, architects may coordinate with interior designers to choose furnishings if you request them to do so. Some architects have designers on staff, while others prefer to collaborate with independent experts.
Allowing your architect to recommend or select building materials keeps your custom house plan functional and helps control actual project costs when all is said and done.
Negotiate With Contractors And Provide Recommendations
Your architect plays a key role in helping you select the right contractor, offering recommendations for firms that can help keep your total project cost within your budget. The architect ensures the process is handled with precision and clarity, whether overseeing competitive bidding or managing negotiations with a specific firm.
During competitive bidding, your architect directly compares and reviews each bid to find discrepancies between their costs. Their experience in construction management allows them to offer insights into which contractors deliver efficiency and minimize paperwork.
Should bids exceed your initial project budget, your architect can make strategic adjustments to your home plan to reduce costs without sacrificing the quality of the final product.
Some architects prefer to be involved in every step of contractor selection. Others might encourage you to choose a contractor early in the design phase and then the architect will work out the details.
Construction Administration And Project Management
Throughout the construction phase, an architect is crucial in ensuring that everything progresses according to plan. They may regularly perform site visits, liaise with builders, and carefully review contractor invoices to be certain they accurately reflect the work completed.
Do Architects Handle Building Permits?
Yes, architects obtain building permits for both new constructions and remodeling projects. Their deep understanding of architectural drawings, building code, and construction cost estimates leaves them well-equipped to manage this aspect of the building process.
How Much Does An Architect Cost?
Architects bill using a variety of methods that may change based on the type of work being performed. Here's an overview of the most common fee structures you might encounter when partnering with an architectural firm.
By Percentage Of Total Construction Cost
It's common for architects to charge a percentage of the total construction costs.
This percentage typically ranges from 6% for basic plans to 20% for full services on smaller projects, with most falling between 10% and 15%.
This method is typical for new constructions, because it allows the fee to be adjusted as the project's details become more clear.
Initially, an architect might ask for a retainer or deposit to start the design work, so that they know their effort in the early stages is fully covered.
Hourly Fee Structure
For projects that are more variable, like remodels, architects often charge by the hour.
Rates can vary dramatically—from $45 an hour for an intern in regions with a lower cost of living to $315 for a senior architect in major cities.
Typically, you'll see hourly rates ranging from $110 to $200.
Architects might set different rates depending on the task. You may not be charged less for something like a simple measurement than you would for a detailed plan drawing. And they often provide an estimate of total fees upfront.
Some even set a maximum cap on their fees to avoid budget surprises.
Retainers And Deposits
When you decide to move forward with an architect, they might request a retainer. These can sometimes be up to $20,000, though typically it’s between $2,500 and $4,000.
Fixed Fee Structures
Some architects prefer a fixed fee for their services. Fixed fees can apply either to specific parts of the project or cover the whole job. This can simplify budgeting and ensure clarity on costs from the start.
By Individual Project Phase
Following the American Institute of Architects (AIA) standards, some architects break down their billing into project phases: schematic design, design development, construction documents, bidding and negotiation, and construction services. They may bill different rates for different phases of the project.
When Do You Pay An Architect?
Typically, after the initial retainer or deposit, architects bill monthly. It's important to discuss with your architect what happens if the project is halted, so you know whether any preliminary work or drawings remain yours.
Do You Need To Hire An Architect For Your Construction Project?
Deciding whether to hire an architect for your construction project involves several considerations.
But if you have a clear vision and are comfortable overseeing the construction process, then hiring an architect might not be necessary. You might find that a builder alone can meet your needs, particularly if your primary goal is to maximize square footage while minimizing costs.
That said, it's smart to look through all of the services architects provide that are listed above. If you need more than 3 or 4 of them, then it's probably worth reaching out to a professional.
When considering an architect, think about the scale and complexity of your project. Architects are particularly valuable for projects that require detailed architectural drawings, adherence to local building codes, or navigating challenging land surveys. Plus, their expertise means more accurate cost estimates.
Ultimately, the decision to hire an architect will depend on your project needs, your budget, and how much directly involved you wish to be throughout the process. If your project involves complex elements or you're looking for a totally unique and bespoke design, the expertise of an architect might just be the investment needed to bring your vision to life.
Can You Afford An Architect?
Understanding whether you can afford architectural services is crucial before beginning your project. If the cost to hire an architect to manage your entire project stretches beyond what you're comfortable with, consider working with one on a more limited basis.
This approach can be cost-effective while still leveraging the architect’s expertise where it counts most.
Building a custom home is a significant investment. That’s why you deserve to work with a team of professionals committed to guiding you through every step of the process – from initial design to the final touches.
Schedule a call today to discuss how Dunn & Stone can bring your dream home vision to life. Our expert team will work with you to ensure that your dream home meets your budget with zero compromises when it comes to quality.
Company
Liberty Home Guard
American Home Shield
First American Home Warranty
Cinch Home Services
Old Republic Home Protection
HomeServe
Choice Home Warranty
Home Warranty Of America
Texas Coverage?
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
Covers Major Home Systems & Appliances?
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
✅ Yes (via separate plans)
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
Monthly Premium
Starts at $49
Starts at $39
Starts at $42
Starts at $35
Starts at $45
Starts at $7
Starts at $35
Start at $46
Service Fee
Typically $75–$125
$100–$125 (customer selects at sign-up)
$75–$125
$100–$150 (customer selects at sign-up)
Typically $100
$0–$100 depending on plan
$85 (fixed)
$50-$100
Typical Response Time
24–48 hours
Varies (reports range from 24 hours to multiple weeks)
180-day workmanship guarantee, longest on this list
Covers rust, corrosion, and unknown pre-existing conditions
Great for normal wear and tear on HVAC, electrical, and plumbing
Straightforward plans
Lower-than-average service request fees
Several plans come with no service fees
Highly flexible, system-specific plans tailored to your needs
Affordable entry pricing starts at $7/month for individual plans
Fixed $85 service fee helps homeowners budget confidently
Broad home warranty cover for HVAC, appliances, and more
Includes optional coverage for issues like roof leaks
Generous HVAC coverage, ideal for Texas heat
Transparent pricing, rare in the industry
Wide range of add-on options for upscale homes
Cons
Lower coverage limits on some repairs raise out-of-pocket repair costs
Some service fee options are unclear until you begin the sign-up process
Occasional complaints about delays in technician assignment
Higher premiums compared to more affordable plans
Few add-on coverage options
Some complaints of poor customer service and long claim resolution times
Less budget-friendly for cost-conscious homeowners
Limited add-on coverage selection
Does not cover pre-existing conditions, limiting protection for older homes
HVAC coverage not included in the “Repair Only” plan
No roof leak coverage
Higher service request fees than competitors
Limited add-on options
Comprehensive coverage requires stacking plans
Bundled options are confusing, not necessarily comprehensive
Frequent reports of claim denials
Mixed customer service reviews
Fewer added perks than competitors
Some customers report slow claim processing
Add-ons can raise the overall cost quickly if you're not careful
Our Top Pick: Liberty Home Guard
If you're looking for the best home warranty company in Texas, Liberty Home Guard stands out as the top choice in 2025.
It’s not the cheapest option on the list, but it consistently ranks as one of the top home warranty providers thanks to its strong home warranty coverage, fast service, and unmatched flexibility.
Liberty’s plans are designed for real life in Texas, where dual air conditioning systems, major home systems, and high summer temps are the norm.
It’s one of the few home warranty companies that includes coverage for two electric AC units in its standard plan.
What also sets Liberty apart is its level of customization.
With over 30 add-on coverage options, homeowners can build a plan that fits their property perfectly, whether they need coverage for a septic system, a swimming pool, or extra laundry appliances.
This kind of flexibility is rare among other home warranty companies.
It’s not just the coverage options that impress, though.
Liberty earns high marks from home warranty customers for its responsiveness and customer service.
You can manage your home warranty contract through their mobile app, which many Texas homeowners love for the convenience when filing a claim or tracking repairs.
Dual AC coverage in the base plan, ideal for Texas heat
High customer satisfaction
Over 30 add-ons for extra coverage
Mobile app and live chat support
Cons
Lower coverage limits on some repairs raise out-of-pocket repair costs
Some service fee options are unclear until you begin the sign-up process
Occasional complaints about delays in technician assignment
Runner Up: American Home Shield
Coming in close behind Liberty, American Home Shield ranks as one of the best home warranty providers in Texas for 2025.
With over 50 years of experience and broad home warranty coverage that includes preexisting conditions, this provider has built a strong reputation among homeowners with older homes, aging heating systems, and major appliances.
In a 2025 This Old House survey, 44% of Texas homeowners selected American Home Shield as their current provider, making it one of the most widely used Texas home warranty companies.
Our favorite features is the $5,000 HVAC coverage cap per system, which is ideal for the Texas climate. The reason we love it is because A/C repairs are some of the most common (and expensive) home service calls made in the Houston area.
Quick Facts: American Home Shield
Feature
Details
Texas Coverage
✅ Yes
Covers Major Home Systems & Appliances
✅ Yes
Monthly Premium
Starts at $39
Service Fee
$100–$125 (customer selects at sign-up)
Typical Response Time
Varies (reports range from 24 hours to multiple weeks)
Mobile app allows you to request service anytime, anywhere
Cons
Higher premiums compared to more affordable plans
Few add-on coverage options
Some complaints of poor customer service and long claim resolution times
Other Great Home Warranty Companies In Texas
While Liberty Home Guard and American Home Shield earned our top spots, they’re not the only Texas home warranty companies worth your attention.
Several other home warranty providers offer solid coverage, competitive pricing, and reliable service.
If you're looking for alternatives that still deliver great value and protection for your covered home systems, the options below are absolutely still worth considering.
First American Home Warranty
While it’s a bit pricier than some affordable plans (with monthly premiums starting at $42), First American Home Warranty makes up for it with higher coverage limits and solid protection for both major appliances and covered systems.
This is especially appealing to owners of high-end homes in Houston.
Some plans offer up to $7,000 in appliance coverage and unlimited HVAC system coverage, which is what makes this company a strong contender for anyone who wants broad, comprehensive coverage (as long as you’re willing to pay a little more for it).
One standout feature is the First American Advantage upgrade, which adds protection for poor installation issues not always covered under standard home warranty plans.
Great for normal wear and tear on HVAC, electrical, and plumbing
Straightforward plans
Lower-than-average service request fees
Cons
Limited add-on options
HomeServe
HomeServe offers a different take on home warranty coverage in Texas, and it works well for homeowners who want low service fees and highly targeted protection.
Instead of bundling everything into one plan, HomeServe allows you to pick and choose the covered systems you care about most, like plumbing, electrical, or HVAC.
To sweeten the deal, several of their plans have no service fees at all.
That’s a massive advantage if you’re looking to reduce out-of-pocket costs on normal wear repairs.
But because each system is covered under a separate plan, achieving full comprehensive coverage can get pricey.
You may need to purchase multiple plans to match the kind of protection you’d get from bundled providers like Liberty or options found on American Home Shield’s website.
Highly flexible, system-specific plans tailored to your needs
Affordable entry pricing starts at $7/month for individual plans
Cons
Comprehensive coverage requires stacking plans
Bundled options are confusing, not necessarily comprehensive
Choice Home Warranty
With one of the most affordable home warranty plans in Texas, Choice Home Warranty offers monthly premiums starting at $35 and a predictable, fixed $85 service fee.
It’s a budget-friendly option for homeowners who want wide home warranty coverage without a complicated pricing model.
Choice’s plans cover both HVAC systems and major appliances, and they include extras that other low-cost providers skip like limited roof leak coverage.
It’s a strong fit for value-seekers who still want protection for high-cost repairs.
However, Choice’s reputation comes with a caveat.
Despite its large customer base (49,000+ reviews on Trustpilot), it has received criticism for poor customer service and claim denials more frequently than top competitors.
Fixed $85 service fee helps homeowners budget confidently
Broad home warranty cover for HVAC, appliances, and more
Includes optional coverage for issues like roof leaks
Cons
Frequent reports of claim denials
Mixed customer service reviews
Fewer added perks than competitors
Home Warranty of America
Home Warranty of America (HWA) offers plans designed for both homeowners and real estate professionals, which makes it a versatile choice for a wide range of Texans.
Known for its transparent pricing and solid HVAC coverage, HWA is a wise pick for those living in hotter climates like Houston where AC systems get put to the test.
Plans start at $46/month, and coverage includes major appliances and systems, with HVAC protection capped at $5,000.
While the base pricing is competitive, be aware that add-on options can increase costs quickly, especially if you’re customizing coverage for a high-end or custom-built home.
Add-ons can raise the overall cost quickly if you're not careful
How We Picked The Top Home Warranty Companies Of 2025
Companies with the best home warranties in Texas respond quickly, partner with licensed local contractors, and actually follow through on their repair guarantees.
Here’s the criteria we used to build our list of the top home warranty companies in 2025. The companies on the list needed to meet at least 4 of 5 of these requirements in order to make the list.
Must cover critical systems and appliances
Texas homeowners face unique challenges due to the climate. Houston’s heat and humidity put a serious strain on air conditioning systems, plumbing, and electrical systems, which means warranties that skip these aren’t worth your time.
In fact, in a recent 2025 survey by Texas Homeowner Trends, 63% of respondents ranked air conditioning coverage as their top priority when choosing a home warranty in Texas.
Builders also care. They want home warranty companies that cover the systems and appliances they install to avoid post-sale arguments over repairs.
Must be priced for Texas homeowners
We only selected companies whose plans fall within the average home warranty cost range for Texas in 2025. That’s between $52 and $80 per month.
This range reflects pricing for the Houston area, which is one of the state’s most active homebuilding markets.
Plans that are too cheap often have low coverage limits. Plans that are too expensive may not offer enough value for what they charge.
Must have strong online reviews
We only considered companies with an average customer satisfaction rating of at least 4 out of 5 stars across sites like Trustpilot.
High scores show how the company handles real-world problems and home warranty service issues effectively.
Must offer fast, reliable service within a maximum of 48 hours
Texas homes can’t afford to wait for repair when the AC unit breaks down in the middle of summer.
Every company on our list offers quick service calls, a strong contractor network, and local availability for licensed repairs.
The Bottom Line
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to home warranty coverage in Texas, and that’s exactly why we created this guide.
From dual AC unit coverage to low service fees and comprehensive plans with high coverage limits, each of the companies we reviewed brings something different to the table.
Here’s the short version:
Liberty Home Guard is our top pick for its flexibility, customer satisfaction, and coverage designed for Texas heat.
American Home Shield stands out for high HVAC caps and coverage for older homes with no maintenance records required.
And for those on a tighter budget or looking for niche protections, companies like Cinch, HomeServe, and First American still offer reliable service — even if they don’t hit every mark.
So which warranty fits your situation best?
Best For First-Time Homeowners: American Home Shield
AHS offers peace of mind with broad coverage, no maintenance history requirements, and helpful tech features like 24/7 service requests and live video chat support.
Best For Budget-Conscious Homeowners: Cinch Home Services
Starting at just $35/month, Cinch offers solid protection with extras like rust coverage and a $500 homeowners insurance deductible reimbursement.
It’s a budget-friendly pick that still comes with a 180-day workmanship guarantee, which is one of the best in the business.
Best For Homeowners Who Want Total Coverage: Liberty Home Guard
With over 30 optional add-ons, dual AC unit coverage in the base plan, and a strong contractor network, Liberty is built for homeowners who want it all.
It’s the best choice for anyone building a custom home or looking to cover systems that most providers skip.
If you’re building a new home in the Houston area, choosing the right home warranty company is only part of the equation. You also need a builder who cares about long-term quality, not just closing day.
At Dunn & Stone Builders, we partner with trusted home warranty providers and build every home with longevity in mind.
Contact us today to talk about how we can help you bring your dream home vision to life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Home Warranty Company In Texas?
The best home warranty company in Texas is Liberty Home Guard. It offers fast service, strong customer satisfaction, and plans tailored to Texas homes, including dual AC coverage.
Which Home Warranty Providers Have The Highest Customer Satisfaction?
Liberty Home Guard and American Home Shield lead in customer satisfaction, with 4.5-star or higher ratings on review sites like Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau.
What Does Home Warranty Coverage Typically Include?
Home warranty coverage usually includes major systems like HVAC, plumbing, and electrical, plus key appliances such as refrigerators, ovens, and washers.
Are All Home Warranty Plans Available In Texas?
No, not all home warranty plans are available in Texas. Only licensed Texas home warranty companies can offer coverage in the state.
Which Home Warranty Companies Offer The Best Repair Guarantee?
Cinch Home Services offers the best repair guarantee, with a 180-day workmanship guarantee that’s six times longer than the industry standard.
How Do I Choose Between Different Home Warranty Providers?
Look for providers with fast service times, high customer satisfaction, competitive pricing, and strong coverage for systems common in Texas homes.
What Should I Look For In Home Warranty Plans For Texas?
Look for home warranty plans that include HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems, offer reasonable monthly rates, and have a solid contractor network for quick repairs.
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