A home warranty can protect a homeowner from unexpected costs when an appliance or system in their home breaks down. Mortgage lenders don’t typically require home warranties, but they can certainly be nice to have.
Many companies offer these services. The best home warranty companies cover what your home insurance doesn’t. We looked at some of the best companies, comparing customer reviews, prices, service contracts, and service agreements. Ultimately, we found 10 companies that stood out from the competition.
The 10 Best Home Warranty Companies
- American Home Shield: Best customizable plans
- America’s First Choice: Best workmanship guarantee
- Choice Home Warranty: Best response times
- Global Home Protection: Best for multiple properties
- Cinch Home Services: Best parts coverage
- Total Home Protection: Best claim limits
- Complete Protection: Best for no service fees
- First American Home Warranty: Best online resources
- Landmark: Best regional coverage
- Select Home Warranty: Best sign-up bonuses
Compare the Top Home Warranty Companies
| American Home Shield | America’s First Choice | Choice Home Warranty | Global Home Protection | Cinch Home Services | Total Home Protection | Complete Protection | First American Home Warranty | Landmark | Select Home Warranty | |
| Best home warranty company for | Customization | Workmanship guarantee | Response times | Multiple properties | Parts coverage | Claim limits | No service fees | Online resources | Regional coverage | Sign-up bonus |
| Pricing | $74.00/mo – $84.99/mo | N/A | $41/mo – $50/mo | $25/mo – $47.50/mo | $65.99/mo – $84.99/mo | Varies by location | $45/mo – $75/mo | $24/mo – $44/mo | $35/mo – $55/mo | $52/mo – $58/mo |
| Service Fee | $75, $100, or $125 | $75, $100, or $125 | $85 | $45+ | $100, $125, or $150 | $45 – $75 | No service fee | $78 – $100 | $60 – $100 | $60 – $75 |
| Coverage | 49 states | 46 states | 47 states | 47 states | 48 states | 48 states | 47 states | 38 states | 6 states | 45 states |
| Reviews Rating | 3.75/5 | 2.25/5 | 2.25/5 | 4.75/5 | 2.75/5 | 1.5/5 | 3.75/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 1.75/5 |
| Pros | Build-your-own plan, Service fee options, Combo plan for systems, and appliances | Workmanship guarantee lasts the lifetime of the plan, Can work with your own technicians and workers, Discounts available for home security systems, and more | Processes 90% of claims within four hours, First month free, Network of 15,000 contractors | Discounts for multi-home properties, No fees for transferring property, Stellar plan includes preexisting conditions | 180-day workmanship guarantee, Coverage included for components and parts, Coverage for preexisting conditions | Unlimited claims filing, First month free, Low service fees | No service fee or deductible, Coverage for preexisting conditions, Excellent ratings with the Better Business Bureau | Low monthly premiums, Educational blog, No claim limits | Coverage for termite control, Tune-ups included in both plans, Coverage available for guest house | First two months free, Free roof coverage, Low service fee |
| Cons | Workmanship guarantee only 30 days, Plan fees a bit pricey | No preexisting condition coverage, Little pricing transparency on website — must call for quote | Little pricing transparency on website — must call for quote, Low Better Business Bureau ranking, Only two plan options | Claims must be reported in 24 hours, Early cancellation fees | Service limit of $10,000, Expensive service fees, Plan fees a bit pricey | Poor rating with the Better Business Bureau, Only two plans available | No coverage for ductwork, sump pumps, Liability cap for septic, plumbing, and electrical | Only available in 38 states, Only two plans available, Workmanship guarantee only 30 days | Only available in 6 states, Only two plans available | Prices vary by state, Standard plans, but not stand-out coverage |
American Home Shield
Best Customizable Plan
Why we chose it
With nearly 50 years in the business, American Home Shield brings a wealth of experience and industry knowledge to the table. Its build-your-own plan is unique; none of the other companies we reviewed offer this level of customization. Although its prices are a little high, the company provides good value for the money.
Why we chose it
With nearly 50 years in the business, American Home Shield brings a wealth of experience and industry knowledge to the table. Its build-your-own plan is unique; none of the other companies we reviewed offer this level of customization. Although its prices are a little high, the company provides good value for the money.
Pros
- Build-your-own plan
- Service fee options
- Combo plan for systems and appliances
Cons
- Workmanship guarantee only 30 days
- Plan fees a bit pricey
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Appliance plan
- Price/Fee: $74.99/mo.
- Coverage: Major appliances, including refrigerator, dishwasher, washer and dryer, oven and cooktop, built-in microwave, free-standing ice maker, garage door opener, and trash compactor.
Systems plan
- Price/Fee: $74.99/mo.
- Coverage: Major systems, including heating with ductwork, electrical, water heater, garbage disposal, air conditioning, ceiling fans, and doorbells.
Combo plan
- Price/Fee: $84.99/mo.
- Coverage: All systems and appliances are covered in the first two plans.
Build-your-own plan
- Price/Fee: Varies depending on systems and appliances chosen
- Coverage: Choose your own options from a list of 21 systems and appliances.
AFC Home Club
Best workmanship guarantee
Why we chose it
America’s First Choice offers standard home warranty coverage options, but what sets them apart is a generous workmanship guarantee that lasts for as long as you own the plan, as opposed to the 30-90-day options available from most companies. The company has a fleet of technicians that they can assign to your jobs, or you can work with your own trusted handyman.
Why we chose it
America’s First Choice offers standard home warranty coverage options, but what sets them apart is a generous workmanship guarantee that lasts for as long as you own the plan, as opposed to the 30-90-day options available from most companies. The company has a fleet of technicians that they can assign to your jobs, or you can work with your own trusted handyman.
Pros
- Workmanship guarantee lasts the lifetime of the plan
- Can work with your own technicians and workers
- Discounts available for home security systems and more
Cons
- No preexisting condition coverage
- Little pricing transparency on website — must call for quote
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Silver Plan
- Price/Fee: NA
- Coverage: Washer and dryer, refrigerator, oven/range/cooktop, dishwasher, garbage disposal, and garage door opener.
Systems plan
- Price/Fee: NA
- Coverage: AC/cooler, heating system, water heater, electrical system, plumbing system, and ductwork.
Gold plan
- Price/Fee: NA
- Coverage: Covers the same systems and appliances as Silver and System plans.
Platinum plan
- Price/Fee: NA
- Coverage: Covers same systems and appliances as Cold plan, plus plumbing stoppages, built-in microwave, and ice maker.
Choice Home Warranty
Best response times
Why we chose it
Choice only offers two plan options with optional add-ons. Its prices are reasonable, with the Total Plan coming in below other companies for comprehensive coverage. The company processes claims quickly, so if you’re concerned about getting your appliances and systems back in working order fast, Choice is worth considering.
Why we chose it
Choice only offers two plan options with optional add-ons. Its prices are reasonable, with the Total Plan coming in below other companies for comprehensive coverage. The company processes claims quickly, so if you’re concerned about getting your appliances and systems back in working order fast, Choice is worth considering.
Pros
- Processes 90% of claims within four hours
- First month free
- Network of 15,000 contractors
Cons
- Little pricing transparency on website — must call for quote
- Low Better Business Bureau ranking
- Only two plan options
Read More
Basic plan
- Price/Fee: $41/mo
- Coverage: Heating, electrical, plumbing, plumbing stoppage, water heater, whirlpool bathtub, oven/cooktop/stove, dishwasher, built-in microwave, garbage disposal, ductwork, garage door opener, ceiling and exhaust fans.
Total plan
- Price/Fee: $50
- Coverage: Everything covered in Basic plan, plus refrigerator, air conditioning and clothes washer and dryer.
Global Home Protection Home Warranty
Best for multiple properties
Why we chose it
Global Home Protection is a good choice if you are a landlord or own a vacation home since there are discounts available for more than one property. The company also offers other uncommon protections, such as permit costs and, in some states, termite treatment.
Why we chose it
Global Home Protection is a good choice if you are a landlord or own a vacation home since there are discounts available for more than one property. The company also offers other uncommon protections, such as permit costs and, in some states, termite treatment.
Pros
- Discounts for multi-home properties
- No fees for transferring property
- Stellar plan includes preexisting conditions
Cons
- Claims must be reported in 24 hours
- Early cancellation fees
Read More
3 Star plan
- Price/Fee: $25/mo.
- Coverage: Air conditioning, heating system, ductwork, plumbing system, electrical system, and water heater.
4 Star plan
- Price/Fee: $35
- Coverage: Everything covered in 3 Star plan, plus dishwasher, garbage disposal, built-in microwave, oven/cooktop/stove, exhaust fans, refrigerator, bathroom whirlpool bathtub, and toilets.
5 Star plan
- Price/Fee: $39/mo.
- Coverage: Everything covered in 4 Star plan, plus sump pump, permits, removal of existing units, termite treatment (in FL/TX only), plumbing stoppages, clothes washer and dryer, roof leaks, refrigerator ice maker, and re-key services.
Stellar plan
- Price/Fee: $47.50/mo.
- Coverage: Everything covered in 5 Star plan, plus built-in trash compactor, central vacuum, code violations, ultra-premium appliances, unknown preexisting conditions, regulatory risk-14 SEER upgrades, and mismatch systems.
Cinch
Best parts coverage
Why we chose it
Although not the cheapest company on our list, Cinch offers some excellent coverage options that we didn’t see elsewhere, such as parts coverage for components like oven knobs and drawer pulls. Other perks include a free water sensor to help detect leaks and a $25 credit if you need to purchase new filters for your air conditioner or fridge. If you need to claim your homeowner’s insurance, Cinch will chip in with $500 to pay your deductible.
Why we chose it
Although not the cheapest company on our list, Cinch offers some excellent coverage options that we didn’t see elsewhere, such as parts coverage for components like oven knobs and drawer pulls. Other perks include a free water sensor to help detect leaks and a $25 credit if you need to purchase new filters for your air conditioner or fridge. If you need to claim your homeowner’s insurance, Cinch will chip in with $500 to pay your deductible.
Pros
- 180-day workmanship guarantee
- Coverage included for components and parts
- Coverage for preexisting conditions
Cons
- Service limit of $10,000
- Expensive service fees
- Plan fees a bit pricey
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Appliances plan
- Price/Fee: $65.99/mo.
- Coverage: Clothes washer and dryer, cooktop/range/oven, built-in food centers, freestanding ice makers, built-in microwaves, exhaust hood, refrigerator, and built-in trash compactors.
Built-in systems plan
- Price/Fee: $69.99/mo.
- Coverage: Air conditioning, attic and ceiling fans, central vacuums, doorbells, electrical system, garage door opener, heating system, ductwork, instant hot/cold water dispenser, plumbing system, smoke detectors, sump pump, toilets, water heater, and whirlpool bathtub.
Complete Home plan
- Price/Fee: $84.99/mo.
- Coverage: Everything covered in appliances and systems plans, plus homeowners insurance deductible reimbursement up to $500 a year.
Total Home Protection
Best claim limits
Why we chose it
Total Home Protection doesn’t cap the number of times you can file a claim, unlike most companies. This feature makes it a good option if you have older appliances or systems that may be likely to break down, causing you to file more than one claim a year. Although the company only offers two plans, you can customize your policy to add coverage for pool, spa, roof leaks, and more.
Why we chose it
Total Home Protection doesn’t cap the number of times you can file a claim, unlike most companies. This feature makes it a good option if you have older appliances or systems that may be likely to break down, causing you to file more than one claim a year. Although the company only offers two plans, you can customize your policy to add coverage for pool, spa, roof leaks, and more.
Pros
- Unlimited claims filing
- First month free
- Low service fees
Cons
- Poor rating with the Better Business Bureau
- Only two plans available
Read More
Gold plan
- Price/Fee: Varies by location
- Coverage: Plumbing system and stoppage, water heater, whirlpool bathtub, electrical system, oven/range/stove, sump pump, built-in microwave, dishwasher, garbage disposal, trash compactor, ductwork, garage door opener, and ceiling and exhaust fans.
Platinum plan
- Price/Fee: Varies by location
- Coverage: Everything covered by the Gold plan, plus air conditioning, heating system, refrigerator and clothes washer and dryer.
Complete Protection
Best for no service fees
Why we chose it
If you’re interested in saving money, Complete Protection is worth looking at. The company’s plans are priced within market standards, but the real bonus here is the lack of a service fee or deductible that needs to be paid every time you make a claim. The caveat is that there is a cap on liability for some of the more expensive systems, like septic, plumbing, and electrical, but you still stand to save money on most repairs. With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, the company also takes customer service seriously.
Why we chose it
If you’re interested in saving money, Complete Protection is worth looking at. The company’s plans are priced within market standards, but the real bonus here is the lack of a service fee or deductible that needs to be paid every time you make a claim. The caveat is that there is a cap on liability for some of the more expensive systems, like septic, plumbing, and electrical, but you still stand to save money on most repairs. With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, the company also takes customer service seriously.
Pros
- No service fee or deductible
- Coverage for preexisting conditions
- Excellent ratings with the Better Business Bureau
Cons
- No coverage for ductwork, sump pumps
- Liability cap for septic, plumbing, and electrical
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Essential plan
- Price/Fee: $45/mo.
- Coverage: Dishwasher, microwave, range water heater, and HVAC system (air handler, furnace, condensing unit, evaporator coil, and thermostat).
Advanced plan
- Price/Fee: $55/mo.
- Coverage: Everything covered in the Essential plan, plus clothes washer and dryer, refrigerator, and preventative maintenance check.
Comprehensive plan
- Price/Fee: $65/mo.
- Coverage: Everything covered in the Advanced plan, plus water heater, pipe leaks, electrical wiring, main electrical panel and outlets and switches.
Ultimate plan
- Price/Fee: $75/mo.
- Coverage: Everything covered in the comprehensive plan, plus garbage disposal, garage door opener, drain line stoppages and plumbing, and electrical fixtures.
First American Home Warranty
Best online resources
Why we chose it
You may come for the entertaining blog entries, but you’ll stay for the low prices. First American Home Warranty’s pricing comes in at the low end of all of our chosen companies. It offers standard coverage options that don’t differ from the norm, along with add-ons such as additional refrigerator, pool, septic tank, and well pump. Plus, it covers preexisting conditions as well as rust, corrosion, sediment, and problems resulting from lack of maintenance — something we haven’t seen elsewhere.
Why we chose it
You may come for the entertaining blog entries, but you’ll stay for the low prices. First American Home Warranty’s pricing comes in at the low end of all of our chosen companies. It offers standard coverage options that don’t differ from the norm, along with add-ons such as additional refrigerator, pool, septic tank, and well pump. Plus, it covers preexisting conditions as well as rust, corrosion, sediment, and problems resulting from lack of maintenance — something we haven’t seen elsewhere.
Pros
- Low monthly premiums
- Educational blog
- No claim limits
Cons
- Only available in 38 states
- Only two plans available
- Workmanship guarantee only 30 days
Read More
Basic plan
- Price/Fee: $24/mo.
- Coverage: Heating, ductwork, electrical system, garage door openers, fans, central vacuum, plumbing system, plumbing stoppages, toilets, water heater, sump pump, pressure regulators, built-in microwave, dishwasher, oven/range/cooktop, garbage disposal, hot water dispenser and trash compactor.
Value Plus plan
- Price/Fee: $36/mo.
- Coverage: Covers everything the basic plan covers, plus first-class upgrade, heating, and air conditioning and ductwork.
Eagle Premier plan
- Price/Fee: $44/mo.
- Coverage: Covers everything the Value Plus plan covers, plus clothes washer and dryer and refrigerator.
Landmark Home Warranty
Best regional coverage
Why we chose it
Landmark provides good, comprehensive coverage with some nice perks if you live in one of the six western states where it operates. The company’s website hints that it’s going national soon, and if so, it’s a good bet for anyone looking for solid coverage. Unlike most warranty companies, it offers AC and heating tune-up services, as well as pest and termite treatment. Its optional add-on list is similarly comprehensive, with coverage for everything from water softener units to guest houses.
Why we chose it
Landmark provides good, comprehensive coverage with some nice perks if you live in one of the six western states where it operates. The company’s website hints that it’s going national soon, and if so, it’s a good bet for anyone looking for solid coverage. Unlike most warranty companies, it offers AC and heating tune-up services, as well as pest and termite treatment. Its optional add-on list is similarly comprehensive, with coverage for everything from water softener units to guest houses.
Pros
- Coverage for termite control
- Tune-ups included in both plans
- Coverage available for guest house
Cons
- Only available in six states
- Only two plans available
Read More
Home Systems plan
- Price/Fee: $35/mo.
- Coverage: Air conditioning, heating system, electrical system, coverage for improper installation, repairs, and mismatched systems, plumbing system, tune-ups for AC and heating, pest control, re-key service, and subterranean termite treatment.
Total Protection plan
- Price/Fee: $55/mo
- Coverage: Everything covered in the Home Systems plan plus built-in microwave, central vacuum, dishwasher, garbage disposal, refrigerator, oven/range/cooktop, clothes washer and dryer, and garage door opener.
Select Home Warranty
Best for sign-up bonuses
Why we chose it
You’re rewarded very quickly when you sign up for a plan with Select Home Warranty. All three of the company’s plans include two free months, a $100 signing bonus, and free roof coverage, which the website says is a $99 value — something not many warranty companies offer. The plans themselves are standard, without any stand-out coverages, but if all you want is basic coverage for your home systems and/or appliances, take a look at Select.
Why we chose it
You’re rewarded very quickly when you sign up for a plan with Select Home Warranty. All three of the company’s plans include two free months, a $100 signing bonus, and free roof coverage, which the website says is a $99 value — something not many warranty companies offer. The plans themselves are standard, without any stand-out coverages, but if all you want is basic coverage for your home systems and/or appliances, take a look at Select.
Pros
- First two months free
- Free roof coverage
- Low service fee
Cons
- Prices vary by state
- Standard plans, but no stand-out coverage
Read More
Bronze Care plan
- Price/Fee: $52/mo.
- Coverage: Clothes washer and dryer, garbage disposal, refrigerator, oven/range/cooktop, built-in microwave, and dishwasher.
Gold Care plan
- Price/Fee: $52/mo.
- Coverage: Air conditioning, heating system, plumbing system, electrical system, water heater, and ductwork.
Platinum Care plan
- Price/Fee: $58/mo.
- Coverage: Everything covered in both the Bronze and Gold plans, plus plumbing stoppages, garage door opener, and ceiling fans.
How we chose the best home warranty companies
Reviews.com scores products, services, and companies using five quantifiable criteria to help readers choose the best one for them. For the best home warranty companies, our editorial team compared customer satisfaction ratings and experience, cost, time in business, and coverage to determine the best providers and calculate our very own Reviews.com score. These scores were created with our readers in mind and are meant to be a helpful tool to simplify the process of choosing which home warranty company is best for you.
Guide to Home Warranties
Types of home warranties
Homeowners warranty
A regular homeowners warranty is the right choice for most people. It’s a great choice if you are currently in a home that you own (or have mortgaged) and are not in the process of moving in the near future. You’ll pay for your warranty either by month or annually, and it will cover either your home systems, such as electrical and plumbing, your major appliances, including fridges and dishwashers, or some combination of both of these options.
Home warranties are not meant to substitute for your homeowners insurance, which covers you from damage caused by weather conditions, theft, or other named perils. A home warranty’s purpose is to help you pay for repairs when normal wear and tear takes a toll on your home.
Homebuyer’s warranty
A homebuyer’s warranty is similar in scope to a regular homeowners warranty, but tweaked slightly to make it a great choice for anyone who is purchasing a home, and doesn’t want to be saddled with repairs before the boxes are unpacked. The homebuyer’s warranty may be paid by the buyer as part of the closing costs, or by the seller or realtor.
Seller’s home warranty
A seller’s home warranty is also similar in coverage to the homeowners warranty, but gives you the security of knowing that last-minute repairs or requests by the homebuyer will not cost you out-of-pocket. It may also be a perk that is intended to increase the desirability of your property for potential homebuyers.
Other Home Warranties
Home warranties for rental properties: if you own a rental property, a home warranty that is specifically designed for landlords may help you when there are major repairs to be made on your property. They are especially useful if your property is older and more likely to require a claim.
How to choose a home warranty?
It can be overwhelming to figure out where to start with choosing your home warranty. There are many companies that offer these services, and offerings can look very different from one company to the next.
The important thing to know is what you really need in a home warranty. Consider what appliances you want coverage for, and don’t forget that some appliances may come with their own warranty, meaning you don’t need to buy additional coverage for them. Just because a company offers coverage for a certain item doesn’t necessarily mean you need it.
- Step 1: Decide what type of coverage you need. Before you start looking at specific companies, decide how much and what type of coverage you need.
- Step 2: Research and compare different companies. Once you have an idea of what coverage you need, start shopping around for companies that offer that coverage.
- Step 3: Get quotes from your top contenders. Once you decide what companies you like, get quotes from a few so you can compare.
- Step 4: Purchase your home warranty policy. After getting quotes from your top choices, sign up for the one that offers the best value.
How Does Home Warranty Work?
A home warranty lowers your out-of-pocket costs when a covered appliance or system in your home breaks down. You typically file a claim with your warranty provider, and they’ll cover the cost to either repair or replace the item, minus any deductible or service fee you’re responsible for. A contractor will generally first try to repair an item. If they can’t repair it, then the warranty company will cover the cost of purchasing a comparable product.
Coverage varies from one home warranty to the next. When you sign up, your provider gives you the choice of different plans, each of which cover specific systems and appliances. Assume that if your home warranty contract doesn’t explicitly list a certain item, it doesn’t provide coverage.
