Home repairs can be expensive. A broken air conditioner, failed water heater, refrigerator problem, electrical issue, plumbing leak, or washer breakdown can create sudden costs that many homeowners are not ready for.
That is why many homeowners consider a home warranty.
A home warranty is a service contract that helps cover repairs or replacement for certain home systems and appliances when they break down from normal wear and tear. It is not the same as homeowners insurance. Homeowners insurance usually protects against events like fire, theft, storm damage, and certain disasters. A home warranty usually focuses on covered appliances and home systems that fail during normal use.
The best home warranty companies can help homeowners reduce surprise repair costs for items such as HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical systems, refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, washers, dryers, water heaters, garage door openers, and other covered items.
But home warranties are not all the same. Coverage limits, service fees, exclusions, waiting periods, contractor networks, claim processes, cancellation rules, and customer service quality can vary a lot.
In this guide, we will compare the best home warranty companies for repair protection, explain how home warranties work, and help homeowners choose the right plan.
What Is a Home Warranty?
A home warranty is a service agreement that helps pay for repair or replacement of covered home systems and appliances when they fail due to normal wear and tear.
A home warranty may cover:
- Air conditioning systems
- Heating systems
- Plumbing systems
- Electrical systems
- Water heaters
- Refrigerators
- Dishwashers
- Ovens and ranges
- Built-in microwaves
- Clothes washers
- Clothes dryers
- Garbage disposals
- Garage door openers
- Ceiling fans
- Pool and spa equipment as add-ons
- Roof leak coverage as an add-on or premium feature
A home warranty usually requires a monthly or annual premium. When a covered item breaks, the homeowner files a claim and pays a service call fee. The warranty company then sends a contractor or approves service according to the contract terms.
NerdWallet’s 2026 cost analysis found that a home warranty costs about $73 per month on average, with plans ranging from $28 to $191 per month, and average service fees of about $108.45 per service call.
Home Warranty vs Homeowners Insurance
Many homeowners confuse home warranties with homeowners insurance, but they are different.
Homeowners Insurance
Homeowners insurance usually covers sudden and accidental damage from events such as:
- Fire
- Theft
- Wind damage
- Hail damage
- Some storm damage
- Vandalism
- Certain water damage events
- Liability claims
Home Warranty
A home warranty usually covers repair or replacement of certain appliances and systems that fail from normal wear and tear.
For example:
- Your air conditioner stops working because of mechanical failure
- Your dishwasher breaks down
- Your water heater fails
- Your electrical system has a covered problem
- Your refrigerator compressor stops working
A home warranty is not a replacement for homeowners insurance. It is an optional repair protection plan for covered systems and appliances.
How Much Does a Home Warranty Cost?
Home warranty cost depends on the company, plan, coverage level, home location, add-ons, service fee, and contract terms.
General cost ranges:
| Home Warranty Cost Type | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Monthly premium | $30–$100+ |
| Annual premium | $350–$900+ |
| Service call fee | $50–$150 |
| Add-on coverage | Varies by item |
| Premium comprehensive plans | $100+ per month possible |
ConsumerAffairs says home warranties typically cost $350 to $900 per year, with service fees often around $100, though service fees can range from $50 to $150.
Forbes notes that entry-level home warranty plans may start below $30 per month, while more comprehensive systems-and-appliances plans can exceed $100 per month.
The cheapest plan is not always the best. A low-cost plan may have lower coverage limits, more exclusions, fewer covered items, or higher service fees.
Best Home Warranty Companies for Repair Protection
Below are some of the best home warranty companies homeowners should compare.
1. American Home Shield
Best for: Broad repair protection and higher coverage limits
Good for: Older systems, HVAC coverage, plumbing, electrical, appliances
Main strength: Strong brand recognition and wide coverage options
American Home Shield is one of the most recognized home warranty companies in the United States. It offers plans for home systems, appliances, and combination coverage.
This Old House selected American Home Shield as its best home warranty company for 2026 because of generous coverage limits and protection for older systems and appliances.
Key Features
- Systems coverage
- Appliance coverage
- HVAC coverage
- Plumbing coverage
- Electrical coverage
- Combo plans
- Optional add-ons
- Service fee options
- Coverage for older systems
- Broad contractor network
- Online claims
- Homeowner dashboard
Why American Home Shield Is Good
American Home Shield is strong for homeowners who want broad protection from a well-known home warranty provider. It can be especially useful for homes with older systems and appliances, where repair risk may be higher.
Its plans may include systems-only, appliance-and-systems, and premium coverage options depending on location and plan availability. In some states, This Old House lists American Home Shield plans such as ShieldSilver, ShieldGold, and ShieldPlatinum, with sample pricing from about $35 to $85 per month depending on plan level.
Best Fit
American Home Shield is best for homeowners who want broad home warranty coverage from a large, established provider.
Possible Downsides
Homeowners should carefully review coverage limits, exclusions, service fees, and contractor rules before buying.
2. First American Home Warranty
Best for: Starter plans and appliance/system coverage
Good for: Home buyers, sellers, older appliances, basic repair protection
Main strength: Long industry experience and plan options
First American Home Warranty is another well-known provider. It offers home warranty plans that may cover appliances, systems, and optional add-ons depending on the plan.
Forbes’ 2026 Missouri home warranty guide notes that First American has over 40 years of industry experience and offers tiered plans, with sample monthly pricing of $42, $57, and $77 for Basic, Essentials, and Premier plans in that context.
Key Features
- Appliance coverage
- Systems coverage
- Optional add-ons
- Home buyer and seller plans
- Online claims
- Service contractor network
- Plan tiers
- HVAC and plumbing options
- Electrical coverage
- Kitchen appliance coverage
Why First American Is Good
First American can be a good fit for homeowners who want a traditional home warranty provider with established experience. It may be especially useful for buyers who want repair protection after purchasing a home.
Money’s 2026 home warranty roundup includes First American Home Warranty among its top picks and highlights it as best for a starter plan.
Best Fit
First American Home Warranty is best for homeowners who want a solid starter plan and repair protection for common home systems and appliances.
Possible Downsides
Coverage varies by plan and location. Always read sample contracts before purchasing.
3. Liberty Home Guard
Best for: Optional add-ons and customizable coverage
Good for: Homeowners who want flexible extra coverage
Main strength: Many add-on options and broad customization
Liberty Home Guard is often included in home warranty rankings because it offers flexible plans and optional add-ons.
NerdWallet’s home warranty list includes Liberty Home Guard among its top home warranty providers, alongside Old Republic and First American.
Key Features
- Appliance plans
- Systems plans
- Combination plans
- Many add-on options
- Online claims
- Customer portal
- Plumbing coverage
- Electrical coverage
- HVAC coverage
- Appliance coverage
- Optional roof leak coverage in some plans/add-ons
- Optional pool and spa coverage
Why Liberty Home Guard Is Good
Liberty Home Guard may be a good choice for homeowners who want more control over add-on coverage. Add-ons can matter if you have items such as pool equipment, septic systems, well pumps, extra appliances, or other home systems not included in a basic plan.
ConsumerAffairs’ 2026 home warranty guide also listed Liberty Home Guard as a top option for quick service.
Best Fit
Liberty Home Guard is best for homeowners who want customizable home warranty coverage with optional add-ons.
Possible Downsides
Add-ons increase monthly cost. Homeowners should compare the total price after adding all desired coverage.
4. Cinch Home Services
Best for: Affordability and value-focused plans
Good for: Budget-minded homeowners, systems plans, appliance protection
Main strength: Competitive pricing and plan value
Cinch Home Services is a home warranty provider that appears frequently in 2026 best home warranty rankings.
Forbes’ 2026 home warranty review selected Cinch Home Services as best for affordability, giving it a 4.9-star rating in its research and noting that some bottom-tier plans start around $27.99 per month.
Key Features
- Appliances coverage
- Built-in systems coverage
- Complete home plans
- Service fee options
- Online claims
- Homeowner dashboard
- Plumbing coverage
- Electrical coverage
- HVAC coverage
- Refrigerator and kitchen appliance coverage
- Optional add-ons
- Some plans may include special reimbursements or perks
Why Cinch Is Good
Cinch can be a good fit for homeowners looking for affordable repair protection. It may offer lower-cost plan options compared with some competitors, depending on the home, location, and selected service fee.
ConsumerAffairs also named Cinch Home Services as best overall in its 2026 home warranty guide.
Best Fit
Cinch Home Services is best for homeowners who want budget-friendly home warranty options and basic repair protection.
Possible Downsides
The lowest price may not provide the best coverage. Compare coverage limits and exclusions carefully.
5. Choice Home Warranty
Best for: Budget-friendly comprehensive coverage
Good for: Homeowners comparing low monthly plan options
Main strength: Competitive pricing and simple plan structure
Choice Home Warranty is a popular home warranty provider known for budget-friendly plans and broad coverage options.
This Old House’s 2026 cheapest home warranty guide selected Choice Home Warranty as a budget option, noting comprehensive coverage under $70 per month and $3,000 coverage limits in that review.
Key Features
- Basic plan
- Total plan
- Appliance coverage
- Systems coverage
- Plumbing and electrical coverage
- HVAC coverage depending on plan
- Online claims
- Contractor network
- Optional add-ons
- Service call fee
- Simple plan choices
Why Choice Home Warranty Is Good
Choice Home Warranty may be useful for homeowners who want a lower-cost home warranty plan with broad coverage. Its simpler plan structure can make it easier to compare than providers with many tiers.
Best Fit
Choice Home Warranty is best for homeowners looking for a budget-friendly home warranty plan.
Possible Downsides
Homeowners should review exclusions, claim limits, customer service reviews, and contract terms before buying.
6. Old Republic Home Protection
Best for: Long-standing provider and value-focused coverage
Good for: Home buyers, sellers, and homeowners wanting established service
Main strength: Established home warranty provider with strong reputation in some markets
Old Republic Home Protection is a long-running home warranty provider often included in home warranty comparisons.
NerdWallet’s 2026 list includes Old Republic Home Protection among its top home warranty companies.
Key Features
- Home systems coverage
- Appliance coverage
- Optional add-ons
- Real estate plans
- Homeowner plans
- Service request system
- Plumbing coverage
- Electrical coverage
- HVAC coverage
- Water heater coverage
- Kitchen appliance coverage
Why Old Republic Is Good
Old Republic can be a good option for homeowners who want an established company with home buyer and seller plan options. It may be especially relevant in real estate transactions where buyers want repair protection after closing.
ConsumerAffairs’ 2026 guide named Old Republic Home Protection as best value among its selected providers.
Best Fit
Old Republic Home Protection is best for homeowners who want a long-standing provider and value-focused repair protection.
Possible Downsides
Availability and plan options may vary by state. Always check local coverage and sample contracts.
7. AFC Home Warranty
Best for: Premium options and homeowner control
Good for: Homeowners who want plan flexibility and contractor choice features
Main strength: Flexible plan options
AFC Home Warranty, also known as America’s First Choice Home Club in some listings, is often included in home warranty rankings for flexibility and plan choice.
Money’s 2026 home warranty roundup includes AFC Home Warranty as best premiums among its top picks.
Key Features
- Multiple plan levels
- Systems coverage
- Appliance coverage
- Combo plans
- Optional add-ons
- Service request portal
- Some contractor-choice flexibility depending on terms
- Plumbing coverage
- Electrical coverage
- HVAC coverage
- Home appliance coverage
Why AFC Home Warranty Is Good
AFC may be a good option for homeowners who want more plan flexibility and are comparing premium structure, service fees, and contractor options.
Best Fit
AFC Home Warranty is best for homeowners who want flexible plan choices and premium comparison options.
Possible Downsides
Check contractor rules, waiting periods, limits, and exclusions closely.
8. Select Home Warranty
Best for: Roof leak coverage options
Good for: Homeowners who want appliance/system coverage plus roof-related protection
Main strength: Roof coverage positioning
Select Home Warranty is often included in home warranty comparisons and is commonly associated with roof leak coverage options.
Money’s 2026 home warranty roundup lists Select Home Warranty as best for roof coverage among its top picks.
Key Features
- Appliance plans
- Systems plans
- Combo plans
- Roof leak coverage options
- Plumbing coverage
- Electrical coverage
- HVAC coverage
- Kitchen appliance coverage
- Optional add-ons
- Service request system
- Service fee
Why Select Home Warranty Is Good
Select Home Warranty may be worth comparing if roof leak coverage is important. Many standard home warranties do not include roof leak protection unless it is added or included in a premium plan.
Best Fit
Select Home Warranty is best for homeowners who want to compare home warranty plans that include or offer roof leak coverage.
Possible Downsides
Roof leak coverage can have limits and exclusions. It is not the same as full roof replacement coverage.
9. 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty
Best for: New home buyers and structural warranty options
Good for: Real estate transactions, new construction, systems and appliances
Main strength: Home buyer and builder warranty experience
2-10 Home Buyers Warranty is known for home warranty plans and structural warranty products, especially in real estate and new construction contexts.
Money’s 2026 home warranty list names 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty as best enhanced coverage among its top picks.
Key Features
- Home warranty plans
- Systems coverage
- Appliance coverage
- Enhanced coverage options
- Real estate transaction support
- Builder-related warranty products
- Service request system
- Optional add-ons
- Plumbing and electrical coverage
- HVAC coverage
Why 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty Is Good
2-10 may be useful for home buyers, sellers, and new construction homeowners who want warranty coverage connected with real estate transactions or enhanced protection options.
Best Fit
2-10 Home Buyers Warranty is best for home buyers, sellers, and homeowners comparing enhanced home warranty options.
Possible Downsides
Coverage can vary based on whether the plan is for a buyer, seller, builder, or existing homeowner. Read the plan details carefully.
10. HomeServe
Best for: Low or no deductible-style repair plans in some categories
Good for: Utility line coverage, systems repair plans, homeowners wanting specific protection
Main strength: Specialized repair plans and low service-fee positioning
HomeServe is different from traditional full home warranty companies. It often offers repair service plans for specific systems, utility lines, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and other home repair categories.
MarketWatch’s 2026 guide named HomeServe as a top pick among home warranty providers that do not charge a deductible or service fee in certain contexts.
Key Features
- Specific repair plans
- Utility line coverage options
- Plumbing repair plans
- Electrical repair plans
- Heating and cooling plans
- Low/no deductible positioning on some plans
- Contractor network
- Service request support
- Monthly plan options
Why HomeServe Is Good
HomeServe can be useful for homeowners who want specific protection instead of a full home warranty plan. For example, a homeowner may care more about exterior water line coverage or sewer line protection than kitchen appliance coverage.
Best Fit
HomeServe is best for homeowners who want specific system or utility repair protection rather than a broad traditional home warranty.
Possible Downsides
It may not cover the same broad list of appliances and systems as a full home warranty. Compare plan scope carefully.
Quick Comparison Table
| Home Warranty Company | Best For | Main Strength | Best Homeowner Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Home Shield | Broad coverage | Strong coverage limits and older systems | Homeowners wanting established provider |
| First American Home Warranty | Starter plans | Long industry experience | Home buyers and standard homeowners |
| Liberty Home Guard | Add-ons | Flexible optional coverage | Homeowners wanting customization |
| Cinch Home Services | Affordability | Budget-friendly plan options | Cost-conscious homeowners |
| Choice Home Warranty | Budget coverage | Simple low-cost plan comparison | Homeowners wanting broad budget plan |
| Old Republic Home Protection | Value | Long-standing home warranty provider | Buyers, sellers, homeowners |
| AFC Home Warranty | Premium flexibility | Plan and premium options | Homeowners comparing flexible coverage |
| Select Home Warranty | Roof leak options | Roof-related coverage positioning | Homeowners worried about leaks |
| 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty | Enhanced coverage | Buyer and builder warranty experience | New home buyers and sellers |
| HomeServe | Specific repair plans | Utility and system repair plans | Homeowners wanting targeted protection |
What Does a Home Warranty Cover?
Coverage depends on the plan. A basic appliance plan may cover only kitchen and laundry appliances. A systems plan may cover HVAC, plumbing, and electrical. A comprehensive plan may cover both.
Common covered appliances:
- Refrigerator
- Dishwasher
- Oven
- Range
- Cooktop
- Built-in microwave
- Washer
- Dryer
- Garbage disposal
Common covered systems:
- Air conditioning
- Heating
- Plumbing
- Electrical
- Water heater
- Ductwork
- Garage door opener
- Ceiling fans
Optional add-ons may include:
- Pool and spa
- Septic system
- Well pump
- Sump pump
- Roof leak coverage
- Extra refrigerator
- Standalone freezer
- Sprinkler system
- Guest unit
- Central vacuum
Always read the contract because “covered” does not mean every part, repair, or replacement is fully paid.
What Does a Home Warranty Not Cover?
Home warranties usually have exclusions.
Common exclusions may include:
- Pre-existing conditions
- Improper installation
- Poor maintenance
- Cosmetic defects
- Code upgrades
- Permit fees unless specified
- Commercial use
- Unusual damage
- Structural repairs
- Full roof replacement
- Damage from disasters
- Items not listed in the contract
- Parts above coverage limits
- Manufacturer warranty-covered items
A home warranty can be helpful, but it is not unlimited repair insurance.
Home Warranty Service Fees Explained
A service fee is the amount you pay when a technician comes to diagnose or repair a covered item.
Example:
- Your dishwasher breaks
- You file a claim
- The warranty company sends a technician
- You pay a $75, $100, or $125 service fee
- The technician diagnoses the issue
- If covered, the repair or replacement is handled according to contract limits
Service fees are similar to a deductible or copay. ConsumerAffairs says service fees often range from $50 to $150, with many around $100.
Some providers allow you to choose a higher service fee for a lower monthly premium, or a lower service fee for a higher monthly premium.
Is a Home Warranty Worth It?
A home warranty may be worth it if you want repair protection and peace of mind, especially if your home systems and appliances are older.
A home warranty may be useful if:
- You do not have a large emergency repair fund
- Your appliances are older
- Your HVAC system is aging
- You are buying an older home
- You want predictable monthly repair protection
- You prefer one claim process instead of finding contractors yourself
- You want seller-provided coverage after buying a home
A home warranty may not be worth it if:
- Most appliances are new and under manufacturer warranty
- You prefer to choose your own contractor
- You can self-fund repairs
- You do not like exclusions and claim limits
- You want full control over repair choices
- You rarely use covered services
Investopedia notes that home warranties can appeal to people without emergency funds or buyers worried about a home’s condition, but they also have limitations such as exclusions, approved contractor rules, and claim disputes.
How to Choose the Best Home Warranty Company
Use this checklist before buying a home warranty.
1. Check Covered Items
Make sure the plan covers the systems and appliances that matter most to you.
2. Compare Coverage Limits
A plan may cover HVAC, but only up to a certain dollar limit. Higher limits can matter for expensive repairs.
3. Review Service Fees
A low monthly premium may come with a higher service fee.
4. Read Exclusions
This is one of the most important steps. Exclusions determine what is not covered.
5. Check Waiting Period
Many home warranty plans have a waiting period before coverage starts.
6. Compare Add-Ons
If you need pool, septic, well pump, roof leak, or extra appliance coverage, compare add-on prices.
7. Review Contractor Rules
Some companies require their own contractor network. Others may allow limited contractor choice.
8. Check Customer Reviews
Look for patterns in claim approval, contractor quality, response time, and customer service.
9. Ask About Replacement Rules
If an appliance cannot be repaired, ask how replacement value is calculated.
10. Read a Sample Contract
Never buy based only on marketing pages. Read the actual contract.
Home Warranty Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Thinking Everything Is Covered
Home warranties only cover listed items under contract terms.
Mistake 2: Ignoring Coverage Limits
A repair may be covered, but only up to a certain amount.
Mistake 3: Not Reading Exclusions
Exclusions are where many claim problems start.
Mistake 4: Choosing Only by Monthly Price
A cheaper plan may have weaker coverage, lower limits, or higher service fees.
Mistake 5: Confusing Warranty With Insurance
Home warranty and homeowners insurance are different.
Mistake 6: Not Checking Contractor Rules
If you want to choose your own repair person, confirm whether the plan allows it.
Mistake 7: Forgetting Service Fees
Every claim can involve a service fee.
Mistake 8: Waiting Until Something Breaks
Home warranty plans may not cover pre-existing problems or items that fail before coverage begins.
Final Verdict: What Is the Best Home Warranty Company?
The best home warranty company depends on your home, budget, repair concerns, coverage needs, and location.
For most homeowners:
- Best for broad coverage: American Home Shield
- Best starter plan: First American Home Warranty
- Best for add-ons: Liberty Home Guard
- Best for affordability: Cinch Home Services
- Best budget option: Choice Home Warranty
- Best value-focused provider: Old Republic Home Protection
- Best premium flexibility: AFC Home Warranty
- Best roof leak coverage comparison: Select Home Warranty
- Best enhanced coverage: 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty
- Best targeted repair plans: HomeServe
If you want broad protection, compare American Home Shield, First American, and Liberty Home Guard. If price matters most, compare Cinch, Choice, and AFC. If roof leak coverage matters, compare Select Home Warranty and plans that include roof add-ons. If you want specific utility-line or system protection, compare HomeServe.
The most important point is simple: a home warranty can help with repair protection, but only if the contract matches your home’s real risks. Read the sample contract, compare limits, understand service fees, and choose based on coverage quality — not marketing claims alone.
FAQs About Home Warranty Companies
What is the best home warranty company?
The best home warranty company depends on your needs. American Home Shield is strong for broad coverage, First American is good for starter plans, Liberty Home Guard is good for add-ons, Cinch is strong for affordability, and Choice Home Warranty is often compared as a budget option.
How much does a home warranty cost?
NerdWallet’s 2026 analysis found that a home warranty costs about $73 per month on average, with plans ranging from $28 to $191 per month. Service fees averaged about $108.45 per service call.
What does a home warranty cover?
A home warranty may cover home systems and appliances such as HVAC, plumbing, electrical systems, water heaters, refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, washers, dryers, and garage door openers depending on the plan.
Is a home warranty the same as homeowners insurance?
No. Homeowners insurance usually covers damage from events like fire, theft, and storms. A home warranty usually covers repair or replacement of listed systems and appliances that fail from normal wear and tear.
Is American Home Shield good?
Yes, American Home Shield is one of the most recognized home warranty companies. This Old House selected it as best overall in 2026 because of generous coverage limits and protection for older systems and appliances.
Is Cinch Home Services good?
Yes, Cinch is often rated well for affordability. Forbes selected Cinch as best for affordability in its 2026 review, noting competitive prices and low starting plan costs.
Are home warranties worth it?
A home warranty may be worth it if you have older appliances or systems and want help with repair costs. It may not be worth it if your appliances are new, you prefer your own contractors, or you can easily pay repairs yourself.
Do home warranties cover roof replacement?
Usually no. Some plans may offer limited roof leak coverage, but full roof replacement is generally not covered by standard home warranty plans.
Can I choose my own contractor with a home warranty?
Some providers require you to use their contractor network. Others may allow limited contractor choice. Always check the contract before buying.
What should I check before buying a home warranty?
Check covered items, exclusions, service fees, coverage limits, waiting period, contractor rules, add-on costs, cancellation policy, customer reviews, and sample contract terms.
