How the Other Top Providers Compare
American Home Shield (AHS)
Best for older homes
Higher price, strong systems
American Home Shield is one of the oldest and best-known home warranty brands, with strong
systems coverage and relatively high annual limits. Pricing tends to be higher than newer
competitors, and service fees are on the upper end, but it can be a solid fit for older
homes with aging major systems.
View AHS Review
Choice Home Warranty
Best for basic coverage
Simple plans, mixed reviews
Choice Home Warranty offers simple, straightforward plans at mid-range pricing. Basic
coverage and a relatively affordable service fee make it attractive to some budget-minded
homeowners, though customer reviews and claim experiences vary by region.
View Choice Review
Select Home Warranty
Budget-friendly
Lower annual cost
Select Home Warranty typically advertises competitive pricing and periodic promotions
with “months free.” It can make sense for homeowners who want a low entry price and are
comfortable with more limited coverage and lower caps.
View Select Review
Liberty Home Guard
Lots of add-ons
Customizable coverage
Liberty Home Guard stands out for the number of add-ons it offers, from electronics to
specialty systems. That flexibility can be useful if you have non-standard items you want
covered, but it also means you’ll want to read each add-on closely to understand limits.
View Liberty Review
How We Ranked the Best Home Warranty Companies
We looked at four main factors when building this list:
- Coverage: Which systems and appliances are included, plus add-ons.
- Price: Typical annual cost and service fee ranges.
- Claims: Ease of filing a claim and overall customer sentiment.
- Value: How much protection you get for what you pay.
Every homeowner’s situation is different, so we focus on giving you a clear side-by-side
view of the tradeoffs between each provider.
What Do Home Warranties Typically Cover?
Most home warranties cover major home systems (A/C, heating, plumbing, electrical) and
everyday appliances (refrigerator, range, dishwasher, washer/dryer). The exact list
depends on the provider and plan.
For a deeper breakdown of what’s usually included (and what’s not), see our
Home Warranty Coverage Guide
.
How Much Do Home Warranties Cost in 2025?
On average, most homeowners can expect to pay somewhere in the range of
$500–$900 per year for a home warranty plan, plus a service fee per
claim (often $75–$125). Prices vary based on your home’s size, age, location, and
the level of coverage you choose.
For a more detailed breakdown by plan type and provider, visit our
2025 Home Warranty Cost Guide
.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are home warranties worth it?
They can be, especially if your systems or appliances are older and you’d struggle
to pay a sudden $2,000–$4,000 repair bill. If your home is newer or you prefer to
self-insure, a warranty may not provide as much value. The key is matching the plan
to the age and condition of your home.
Does a home warranty replace homeowners insurance?
No. Homeowners insurance covers damage from events like fire, storms, and theft.
A home warranty covers breakdowns from normal wear and tear on covered systems and
appliances. Many homeowners benefit from having both.
Can I choose my own contractor?
Some providers allow this, but many require you to use their approved contractor
network. If choosing your own contractor is important, check that detail before you buy.
What’s the biggest “fine print” to watch for?
Pay close attention to coverage limits per item, overall annual caps, and exclusions
for pre-existing conditions or lack of maintenance. These details can make a big
difference in how much the plan pays when something breaks.
Next Step: Get a Plan That Matches Your Home
Now that you’ve seen how the top home warranty companies compare, your next step is to
get quotes that match your specific home, systems, and budget.
We generally recommend starting with our Editor’s Choice:
American Home Coverage, then comparing at least one or two alternatives
to see which fits your needs best.
Start with American Home Coverage
