As homeowners, we all understand the importance of protecting our most valuable asset. With unexpected repairs and maintenance costs potentially putting a strain on our finances, home warranties have become an increasingly popular solution. In this comprehensive review, we'll examine the top 5 home warranty companies of 2024: American Home Shield, Liberty Home Guard, First American Home Warranty, Cinch Home Services, and Select Home Warranty.

These companies have established themselves as leaders in the home warranty industry, each offering unique benefits and coverage options. Whether you're a first-time homeowner or looking to switch providers, this guide will help you navigate the complex world of home warranties and find the best fit for your needs. We'll analyze their coverage plans, pricing structures, customer service quality, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.

Our Top 5 Home Warranty Companies:

  • American Home Shield: Mixed reviews, service issues.
  • Liberty Home Guard: Positive service, some complaints.
  • First American Home Warranty: Inconsistent coverage, delays.
  • Cinch Home Services: Declining service quality.
  • Select Home Warranty: Many claim denials reported.
Our Most Popular
1
American Home Shield
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  • Customizable service fees.
  • Comprehensive coverage options.
  • No age limit on covered items.
2
Liberty Home Guard
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  • Extensive add-on options.
  • 60-day workmanship guarantee.
  • Affordable plans from $1/day.
3
First American Home Warranty
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  • High coverage limits.
  • First Class Upgrade option.
  • Choose your own technician.
4
Cinch Home Services
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  • 180-day workmanship guarantee.
  • $25 air filter credit.
  • Covers unknown pre-existing issues.
5
Select Home Warranty
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  • Free roof leak coverage.
  • Low-cost plans available.
  • Quick claims process.

The Best Home Warranty Companies - An In-Depth Look

1

American Home Shield

American Home Shield is a leading home warranty provider offering three main plans: ShieldSilver, ShieldGold, and ShieldPlatinum. These plans cover various home systems and appliances, with customizable service fees. AHS is known for comprehensive coverage, including items regardless of age. While many customers appreciate the wide coverage options and flexibility, some report mixed experiences with customer service and claim resolutions. The company offers additional benefits like HVAC tune-ups and partner discounts, making it a considerable option for homeowners seeking protection against unexpected repairs.

How Does American Home Shield Work?

When you purchase an American Home Shield warranty, you're essentially buying a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of many of your home's major systems and appliances. Here's how it typically works:
Choose a plan: Select from one of AHS's three main plans or customize your coverage.
Pay your premium: This can be done monthly or annually.
When something breaks: Submit a service request online or by phone.
Pay the service fee: A set amount you pay for each service call.
Get it fixed: AHS sends a qualified technician to diagnose and repair the issue.

American Home Shield Plans and Coverage

American Home Shield offers three main plans:
ShieldSilver: Covers major home systems like electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
ShieldGold: Includes everything in ShieldSilver plus coverage for kitchen and laundry appliances.
ShieldPlatinum: The most comprehensive plan, covering everything in ShieldGold plus additional perks like roof leak repair and a free HVAC tune-up.

American Home Shield Pricing

American Home Shield's pricing varies depending on the plan you choose, your location, and the service fee option you select. Here's a general overview:
ShieldSilver: $29.99 - $39.99 per month
ShieldGold: $39.99 - $59.99 per month
ShieldPlatinum: $69.99 - $89.99 per month
Service fees range from $75 to $125 per service call. You can choose your service fee when you sign up, with lower fees resulting in higher monthly premiums and vice versa.

Why Choose American Home Shield?

Extensive Coverage: AHS offers comprehensive coverage options that can be tailored to fit various homeowner needs.
Long-standing Reputation: With over 50 years in the industry, AHS has established itself as a reliable home warranty provider.
Flexibility: The ability to choose your service fee and customize your plan provides flexibility for different budgets and needs.
No Home Inspection Required: AHS doesn't require a home inspection before coverage begins, making it easier to get started.
Coverage for Older Homes: AHS covers systems and appliances regardless of age, which can be beneficial for older homes.

Strong Customer Support

Many users report positive experiences with ADT’s customer service. The company provides support through various channels, ensuring that help is available when needed.

Conclusion

American Home Shield offers comprehensive home warranty coverage with flexible plans and customizable options. Their long history in the industry and extensive contractor network are definite advantages. However, like many home warranty providers, they face challenges with customer satisfaction, particularly regarding claim approvals and service times.

For homeowners looking for extensive coverage and willing to pay a bit more for it, AHS could be a good choice. However, it's crucial to carefully read the contract, understand what is and isn't covered, and be prepared for potential service delays or claim disputes.

Before purchasing any home warranty, consider your home's specific needs, your budget, and your tolerance for dealing with potential service issues. It may also be worthwhile to compare AHS with other top home warranty providers to find the best fit for your situation.

Pros Cons
Comprehensive Coverage
Mixed Customer Reviews
Flexibility
Higher Prices
No Home Inspection Required
Service Delays
Generous Coverage Limits
Claim Denials
Large Network of Contractors
Limited Coverage for Some Items
24/7 Service Requests
Short Workmanship Guarantee
Roof Leak Coverage
American Home Shield
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2

Liberty Home Guard

Liberty Home Guard is a home warranty provider offering coverage in all 50 states. They provide three main plans: Appliance Guard, Systems Guard, and Total Home Guard, with customizable add-ons. Known for their 60-day workmanship guarantee and option to choose your own technician, LHG has high customer satisfaction ratings. While praised for their comprehensive coverage and flexibility, some users report issues with claim denials and service delays. Pricing is competitive, with monthly premiums ranging from $49.99 to $69.99 and service fees between $65 and $125.

How Does Liberty Home Guard Work?

When you purchase a Liberty Home Guard warranty, you're essentially buying a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of many of your home's major systems and appliances. Here's how it typically works:
Choose a plan: Select from one of Liberty Home Guard's three main plans or customize your coverage.
Pay your premium: This can be done monthly or annually.
When something breaks: Submit a service request online or by phone, available 24/7.
Pay the service fee: A set amount you pay for each service call.
Get it fixed: Liberty Home Guard sends a qualified technician to diagnose and repair the issue.

Liberty Home Guard Plans and Coverage

Liberty Home Guard offers three main plans:
Appliance Guard: Covers major home appliances.
Systems Guard: Covers major home systems.
Total Home Guard: Comprehensive coverage for both appliances and systems.

Liberty Home Guard Pricing

Liberty Home Guard's pricing varies depending on the plan you choose, your location, and the service fee option you select. Here's a general overview:
Appliance Guard: Starting at $49.99 per month.
Systems Guard: Starting at $54.99 per month.
Total Home Guard: Starting at $59.99 per month.
Service fees range from $65 to $125 per service call, with most customers opting for the $75 service fee.

Why Choose Liberty Home Guard?

Extensive Coverage Options: Liberty Home Guard offers one of the most comprehensive lists of add-on coverages in the industry, allowing for highly customizable plans.
60-Day Workmanship Guarantee: This is twice as long as many competitors, providing extra peace of mind.
Responsive Customer Service: The company is known for its 24/7 customer support and quick response times.
No Home Inspection Required: Coverage begins 30 days after signing up, with no need for a home inspection.
Flexible Service Fee: Customers can choose their service fee, which affects the monthly premium.

Conclusion

Liberty Home Guard offers comprehensive home warranty coverage with a strong focus on customer satisfaction. Their extensive list of add-on options allows for highly customizable plans, making them a good choice for homeowners with specific coverage needs. While their prices may be higher than some competitors, the company's responsive customer service, 60-day workmanship guarantee, and high coverage limits provide value for the cost.

For homeowners looking for flexible and comprehensive coverage and willing to pay a bit more for it, Liberty Home Guard could be an excellent choice. However, as with any home warranty provider, it's crucial to carefully read the contract, understand what is and isn't covered, and consider your home's specific needs before making a decision.

Pros Cons
Extensive Add-on Options
Relatively New Company
Live Chat Support
Higher Monthly Premiums
Transparent Pricing
Limited Availability
High Coverage Limits
Cancellation Fee
Choose Your Own Technician
Liberty Home Guard
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3

First American Home Warranty

First American Home Warranty is a well-established provider offering coverage for home systems and appliances. They provide two main plans: Basic and Premier, with optional add-ons available. Known for their comprehensive coverage and competitive pricing, First American has mixed customer reviews. While many appreciate their wide network of contractors and 24/7 claims service, some users report issues with claim denials and service delays. Pricing varies by location, with monthly premiums ranging from $28 to $50 and service fees between $75 and $100.

How Does First American Home Warranty Work?

When you purchase a First American Home Warranty plan, you're essentially buying a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of many of your home's major systems and appliances. Here's how it typically works:
Choose a plan: Select from one of First American's plans or customize your coverage.
Pay your premium: This can be done monthly or annually.
When something breaks: Submit a service request online or by phone, available 24/7.
Pay the service fee: A set amount you pay for each service call.
Get it fixed: First American sends a qualified technician to diagnose and repair the issue.

First American Home Warranty Plans and Coverage

First American Home Warranty offers three main plans:
Starter Plan: Covers essential kitchen appliances, plus some plumbing and electrical systems.
Essential Plan: Includes everything in the Starter Plan, plus coverage for washer and dryer, air conditioning, and water heaters.
Premium Plan: The most comprehensive option, covering everything in the Essential Plan plus additional home systems and appliances.

First American Home Warranty Pricing

First American Home Warranty's pricing varies depending on the plan you choose, your location, and the service fee option you select. Here's a general overview:
Starter Plan: Starting at $35 per month.
Essential Plan: Starting at $50 per month.
Premium Plan: Starting at $65 per month.
Service fees range from $75 to $125 per service call, depending on your chosen plan and location.

Why Choose First American Home Warranty?

Extensive Experience: With over 35 years in the industry, First American has a proven track record of serving homeowners.
Comprehensive Coverage: Their plans offer protection for a wide range of home systems and appliances.
No Age Limits: First American covers systems and appliances regardless of age, as long as they're in good working condition at the start of the contract.
High Coverage Limits: Many items have high or unlimited coverage limits, which is not common in the industry.
Flexible Service Fees: Customers can choose their service fee, which affects the monthly premium.

Strong Customer Support

Many users report positive experiences with First American Home Warranty's customer support team, which is available to assist with any issues or questions.

Conclusion

First American Home Warranty offers comprehensive home warranty coverage with flexible plans and customizable options. Their strengths lie in their extensive experience, high coverage limits, and lack of age restrictions on covered items. The company's wide range of plans allows homeowners to choose coverage that fits their specific needs and budget.

However, potential customers should be aware of the mixed user feedback, particularly regarding claim approvals and service times. It's crucial to carefully read the contract, understand what is and isn't covered, and be prepared for potential service delays or claim dispute.

For homeowners looking for extensive coverage and willing to pay a bit more for it, First American Home Warranty could be a good choice. However, as with any home warranty provider, it's essential to weigh the costs and benefits carefully before making a decision. Consider your home's specific needs, your budget, and your tolerance for dealing with potential service issues.

Pros Cons
Comprehensive Coverage
Limited Availability
High Coverage Limits
Mixed Customer Reviews
No Age Restrictions
Air Conditioning Not Included in Basic Plan
Flexible Plans
Potential for Claim Denials
24/7 Claims Service
Service Delays
Large Network of Technicians
First American Home Warranty
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4

Cinch Home Services

Cinch Home Services is a home warranty provider offering three plans: appliance, system, and comprehensive coverage. Known for their 180-day workmanship guarantee and high coverage limits of $10,000, Cinch operates in 48 states. Monthly premiums start at $30.99 with service fees ranging from $75 to $125. While some customers praise their comprehensive coverage and customer service, others report issues with claim denials and service delays. Cinch has mixed reviews, with ratings varying from 1.12 on BBB to 2.7 on Google.

How Does Cinch Home Services Work

When you purchase a Cinch Home Services warranty, you're essentially buying a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of many of your home's major systems and appliances. Here's how it typically works:
Choose a plan: Select from one of Cinch's three main plans or customize your coverage.
Pay your premium: This can be done monthly or annually.
When something breaks: Submit a service request online or by phone, available 24/7.
Pay the service fee: A set amount you pay for each service call.
Get it fixed: Cinch sends a qualified technician to diagnose and repair the issue.

Cinch Home Services Plans and Coverage

Cinch Home Services offers three main plans:
Appliances Plan: Covers major home appliances.
Built-in Systems Plan: Covers major home systems.
Complete Home Plan: Comprehensive coverage for both appliances and systems.

Cinch Home Services Pricing

Cinch Home Services' pricing varies depending on the plan you choose, your location, and the service fee option you select. Here's a general overview:
Appliances Plan: Starting at $30.99 per month.
Built-in Systems Plan: Starting at $34.99 per month.
Complete Home Plan: Starting at $39.99 per month.
Service fees range from $75 to $150 per service call, with most customers opting for the $100 or $125 service fee.

Why Choose Cinch Home Services?

For those already using other Ring devices or Amazon Alexa, the system integrates effortlessly into their existing smart home setup.
Comprehensive Coverage: Cinch offers extensive coverage options for both home systems and appliances.
180-Day Workmanship Guarantee: This is one of the longest in the industry, providing extra peace of mind.
High Coverage Limits: Cinch has a $10,000 annual coverage limit, which is higher than many competitors.
Flexible Service Fees: Customers can choose their service fee, which affects the monthly premium.
Coverage for Unknown Pre-existing Conditions: Cinch covers issues that were not known or could not have been reasonably observed before the coverage start date.

Conclusion

Cinch Home Services offers comprehensive home warranty coverage with some unique features like the 180-day workmanship guarantee and coverage for unknown pre-existing conditions. Their high coverage limits and flexible pricing options make them an attractive choice for many homeowners.

However, potential customers should be aware of the mixed user feedback, particularly regarding claim approvals and service times. It's crucial to carefully read the contract, understand what is and isn't covered, and be prepared for potential service delays or claim disputes.

For homeowners looking for extensive coverage and willing to pay a bit more for it, Cinch Home Services could be a good choice. However, as with any home warranty provider, it's essential to weigh the costs and benefits carefully before making a decision. Consider your home's specific needs, your budget, and your tolerance for dealing with potential service issues.

Pros Cons
Affordable Pricing
Notification Reliability
Easy DIY Installation
Customer Support Responsiveness
Seamless Integration with Ring Devices
Limited Sensor Selection
No Long-Term Contracts
Smart Home Compatibility
WinkBed
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5

Select Home Warranty

Select Home Warranty is a nationwide provider offering affordable home warranty plans since 2011. They provide three main coverage options for systems, appliances, or both, with service fees ranging from $75 to $85. While known for competitive pricing and free roof leak coverage, customer reviews are mixed. Some praise the company's value and comprehensive coverage, while others report issues with claim denials and service delays. Select Home Warranty is available in 47 states and has a B rating from the BBB.

How Does Select Home Warranty Work?

When you purchase a Select Home Warranty plan, you're essentially buying a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of many of your home's major systems and appliances. Here's how it typically works:
Choose a plan: Select from one of Select's three main plans or customize your coverage.
Pay your premium: This can be done monthly or annually.
When something breaks: Submit a service request online or by phone, available 24/7.
Pay the service fee: A set amount you pay for each service call.
Get it fixed: Select sends a qualified technician to diagnose and repair the issue.

Select Home Warranty Plans and Coverage

Select Home Warranty offers three main plans:
Bronze Care: Covers major appliances.
Gold Care: Covers home systems.
Platinum Care: Comprehensive coverage for both appliances and systems.

Select Home Warranty Pricing

Select Home Warranty's pricing varies depending on the plan you choose, your location, and the service fee option you select. Here's a general overview:
Bronze Care: Starting at $44.92 per month (with discounts).
Gold Care: Starting at $44.92 per month (with discounts).
Platinum Care: Starting at $47.75 per month (with discounts).
Service fees range from $75 to $85 per service call, which is lower than many competitors

Why Choose Select Home Warranty?

Affordable Pricing: Select offers some of the most competitive rates in the industry, especially with their frequent discounts.
Free Roof Leak Coverage: All plans include free roof leak coverage, which is uncommon in the industry.
Low Service Fees: With service fees ranging from $75 to $85, Select's fees are lower than many competitors.
90-Day Repair Guarantee: This is longer than some competitors, providing extra peace of mind.
No Home Inspection Required: Coverage begins 30 days after signing up, with no need for a home inspection.

Conclusion

Select Home Warranty offers some of the most affordable home warranty plans in the industry, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious homeowners. The inclusion of free roof leak coverage and low service fees further enhance its value proposition. However, potential customers should be aware of the relatively low coverage limits and mixed customer reviews.

For homeowners looking for basic coverage at a competitive price, Select Home Warranty could be a good choice. However, as with any home warranty provider, it's essential to carefully read the contract, understand what is and isn't covered, and be prepared for potential service delays or claim disputes.

Pros Cons
Competitive Pricing
Coverage Limits
Free Roof Leak Coverage
Mixed Customer Reviews
Low Service Fees
Not Available in All States
90-Day Workmanship Guarantee
Maintenance Records Required
24/7 Claims Service
Multiple Service Fees
No Age Restrictions on Covered Items
Select Home Warranty
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How to Compare?

These companies offer a range of plans to suit different needs and budgets, from basic appliance coverage to comprehensive protection for both systems and appliances. While each company has its strengths and weaknesses, they all provide homeowners with peace of mind and potential savings on unexpected repair and replacement costs.

American Home Shield stands out for its long-standing reputation and extensive coverage options, though some customers report issues with claim denials and customer service. Liberty Home Guard receives high marks for customer satisfaction and offers unique features like a 60-day workmanship guarantee and the option to choose your own technician.

First American Home Warranty is known for its competitive pricing and comprehensive coverage, but some users have experienced delays in service and claim resolution. Cinch Home Services offers flexible plans and a 180-day workmanship guarantee, though customer experiences vary widely.

Select Home Warranty provides affordable options with lower service fees, but some customers have reported difficulties with claim approvals and finding qualified technicians.

When choosing a home warranty provider, it's essential to carefully review coverage details, understand service fees and coverage limits, and consider customer feedback. While these companies offer valuable protection, it's important to remember that home warranties are not a substitute for homeowners insurance or regular maintenance.

Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your specific needs, budget, and risk tolerance. By thoroughly researching these top providers and understanding the terms of their contracts, you can make an informed decision to protect your home investment in 2024 and beyond.

Walter Lockett
Walter Lockett,As a seasoned Home Warranty reviewer, I specialize in evaluating coverage plans, pricing, and customer feedback to provide unbiased insights. My goal is to help homeowners make informed decisions and protect their investments with the best warranties available. Reliable, thorough, and customer-focused!

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