Reviews Report
- Reviews.com rates Global Home Protection as the best home warranty company, as it earned a 4.75 out of 5.
- The best home warranty companies have home warranty plans which complement home insurance and cover what those policies don’t.
- The ten best home warranty companies rank well in customer satisfaction, experience, cost, coverage, and more.
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
- 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
- American Home Shield: Best customizable plans
Compare the Best Home Warranty Companies of 2021
| Provider | Reviews.com Score | Service Fee | Starting Price | BBB Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| America’s First Choice | 3 | $75, $100, or $125 | Not Listed | B |
| Choice Home Warranty | 2.4 | $85 | $41–$50 / mo. | B |
| Global Home Protection | 4.8 | $45 / mo | $25–$47.50 / mo | A- |
| Cinch Home Services | 2.8 | Not Listed | $27.99–$39.99/mo. | A- |
| Total Home Protection | 2.25 | $45–$75 | Varies by location | B- |
| Complete Protection | 3.8 | Varies by location | $45–$75/mo. | A+ |
| First American Home Warranty | 3.2 | $75–$100 | $290/year | B |
| Landmark | 3.5 | $60–$195 | $37.17–$55/mo. | B |
| Select Home Warranty | 2 | $60–$75 | Not listed | B |
| American Home Shield | 3.6 | $75, $100, or $125 | $39.99/mo. | B |
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.
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.
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
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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.
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.
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
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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.
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.
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.
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
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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.
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.
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
Read More
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.
How Do Home Warranties Work?
A home warranty plan lowers your out-of-pocket costs when a covered appliance or system in the home breaks down. Policyholders typically file a claim with their warranty provider, and the provider will cover the cost to either repair or replace the item, minus any deductible or service fee that is your responsibility.
A contractor for American Home Shield, for example, will generally first try to repair an item, such as a washing machine, that is not working. If the contractor is unable to make the repair, AHS will in most instances cover the cost of purchasing a comparable washing machine.
Coverage varies from one plan to the next. When signing up, home warranty companies offer their best home warranty plans, each of which cover specific systems and appliances. Assume that if a home warranty contract does not explicitly list a certain item, the item is not covered by the plan.
What a home warranty covers
Generally, the best home warranty plans will cover two broad categories — systems that assure the overall habitability of the home (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and more) and/or appliances (refrigerators, dishwashers, dryers). Most home warranty companies will have some variations of these items in each category, so it is important to read the fine print.
Additionally, many companies will include optional or add-on coverage for separate items. These often include garage door openers, doorbells, sump pumps, and septic system coverage.
What a home warranty doesn’t cover
As with insurance policies, home warranty plans do have important limitations. A home warranty is designed primarily to repair or replace systems and appliances, that is equipment. Therefore, a home warranty will not cover structural damage like walls or stairs.
Additionally, the typical home warranty plan will not cover items that have been damaged by misuse of the equipment or the failure to properly maintain the item. It’s crucial to carefully read all of the plan’s limitations and ask clarifying questions before purchasing a home warranty.
How to Choose the Best Home Warranty Company
Although we try to make it easy to find the best home warranty company and plan, it does require a little legwork. Here’s how to find the best home warranty plans:
- Make a general assessment and list of the systems and appliances to be covered. Include any other unique items that may not fit into normal categories such as sump pumps and second refrigerators.
- Look at the best home warranty companies rated by third-party sites based on comparing customer satisfaction ratings and experience, cost, and coverage.
- Ask local professionals — like real estate agents — or other homeowners for recommendations on home warranty companies.
- Match the top several companies with your needs, obtain several quotes, and compare.
Types of Home Warranties, Explained
Home Warranty FAQ
Methodology
We evaluated home warranty companies based on customer experience, customer satisfaction, monthly cost, trade service fees and coverage to determine Reviews.com scores and create our best home warranty reviews. To compare home warranty companies with other providers across the board, we calculate each Reviews.com score based on the following:
- Starting Monthly Price: The lower the cost of a home warranty company’s monthly contract, the higher the score. Inversely, the higher the cost of the monthly contract, the lower the score in this metric.
- Trade Service Fee: We awarded higher scores to home warranty companies with lower trade service fees.
- Customer Satisfaction: Reviews.com utilized the Better Business Bureau ratings to assign customer satisfaction scores to home warranty companies.
- Customer Experience: Using the Better Business Bureau, we reviewed rating of customer complaints lodged and resolved with BBB.
- Coverage: We compared available coverage and add-ons offered by home warranty companies to assign Reviews.com scores.
About the Authors
Rick Hoel is an international business attorney and legal and insurance writer for Reviews.com. Over the last several years, he has covered topics dealing with personal and commercial insurance and technology and the law.
