You may want to purchase a home warranty in California, where the cost of living is high and repair or replacement costs can add up quickly. Unlike home insurance, a home warranty typically covers the major systems and appliances in your home. Warranties can also cover costs related to typical wear and tear.
A home warranty might be a good option if you live in an older home with appliances that you may need to replace soon.
Below, you can compare the best home warranty companies in California.
American Home Shield: Best for air conditioning coverage
If you live in California, air conditioning system coverage from American Home Shield can be particularly valuable in the summer months. American Home Shield is one of the only home warranty companies with a base plan (ShieldSilver) that includes air conditioning systems. ShieldSilver includes up to $5,000 in repairs or replacements for every permanent air conditioning system with a capacity of up to 5 tons.
Liberty Home Guard: Best for add-ons
Liberty Home Guard offers a long list of add-ons that can enhance the warranty coverage for your California home. The company offers nearly 40 optional warranty add-ons, including coverage for your second refrigerator, ice maker, wine cooler, generator, TV mount, saltwater pool, carpet cleaning, lawn sprinkler system, and more. You’ll get coverage of up to $2,000 for most items, which is helpful in an expensive state like California.
First American Home Warranty: Best for appliance coverage
First American Home Warranty is a solid choice for protecting your appliances in California. Most home warranty companies cap appliance coverage at $2,000 or less per item, but First American will reimburse you for up to $7,000 per appliance. Plus, the higher-tier plan covers luxury appliances without any age limits, so you can cover older appliances with no restrictions.
2-10: Best for homeowners on a budget
If you’re looking for the cheapest home warranty coverage in California, you should consider 2-10. The company has the cheapest warranty rates among the companies we reviewed. The base Simply Kitchen plan, which covers your kitchen appliances, starts at $32 per month. Even if you go with Pinnacle Home, the highest-level plan, you may pay only about $42 per month. The company also caps service fees at $100.
Super Home Warranty: Best for comprehensive coverage
Super Home Warranty’s comprehensive plans are a good option to protect your major systems and appliances in California. Having a warranty can help you avoid expensive repairs or replacements. Even the entry-level Simple plan covers HVAC, plumbing systems, central vacuum, garage door openers, and a variety of appliances. The LUX top-tier plan offers unique coverages for items such as smart home devices, water softeners, and landscape lighting.
Our editorial team analyzed home warranty companies that sell plans in California to assess which offer the best prices, coverage options, customer service, and savings to homeowners. We looked at available plans, service fees and agreements, and coverage limits. We prioritized competitive prices, customer service reviews, discounts, and specialty or supplemental coverages.
How home warranties work
A home warranty acts as a service contract for your home. Though coverages vary by company and plan, a home warranty typically covers the following home systems and appliances:
HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning)
Electrical
Plumbing
Kitchen appliances, including ovens, dishwashers, and refrigerators
Water heater
Warranty companies also often offer add-ons, such as for a pool, a water softener, and more, that you can purchase to extend protection. You’ll have to decide what additional features you need.
Home warranties don’t typically cover the following:
Foundation problems
Doors, walls, or windows
Flooring
Non-major appliances, like a countertop toaster or microwave
Hazard remediation reimbursements, like for radon or mold
You might want to invest in a home warranty if you live in an older home or hope to avoid high out-of-pocket repair costs every time a major system or appliance breaks. A home warranty may also make your home more appealing if you decide to sell it.2
How much does a home warranty cost in California?
Several factors determine what you pay for a home warranty in California, including the company, plan, and add-ons you choose. The cost of home warranty coverage generally ranges from $20 per month for a fairly basic plan to $90 per month for a comprehensive plan.
It’s a good idea to shop around and compare quotes so you can find the best option for your budget and needs.
Below, you can compare rates and coverage options from the top home warranty companies in California.
How to buy a home warranty in California
You can invest in a home warranty at any time. Follow these steps to secure home warranty coverage in California:
Home warranties in California FAQs
If you’re searching for a home warranty company in California, the additional information below may help as you research your options.
What is the best home warranty in California?
Your budget, needs, and personal preferences will determine the best home warranty for your California home. American Home Shield, Liberty Home Guard, and 2-10 are a few of the best home warranty companies for you to explore.
How much does a home warranty cost in California?
In general, home warranties in California can cost between $20 and $90 per month. The company and plan you choose play a major role in what you pay for coverage, making it important to shop around and compare quotes.
What do home warranty companies cover?
Home warranties each have a list of inclusions, but most of them will reimburse you for major appliances, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems. You may pay more for add-ons to cover your pool and spa, landscape lighting, water softener, and more.3
Are home warranties worth it?
It depends. A home warranty can help you reduce the risk of high out-of-pocket costs, which can be especially helpful if you live in an older home with dated appliances or systems. If you have a new home or can afford to pay for potential home system or appliance repairs or replacements out of pocket, you may not benefit from a warranty.
Why do home warranty companies deny claims?
Your home warranty company may deny your claim if the damage stems from poor maintenance, the use of unlicensed contractors, or delayed damage reporting. In some cases, companies may not cover claims for normal wear and tear or an event like a flood.
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