Let’s face it — home warranties have a bad reputation. You can find hundreds of stories of denied claims, confusing contracts, and pushy sales tactics from unethical providers. With so many bad companies and plan exclusions, I see why homeowners are hesitant to even consider a home warranty. However, as a homeowner myself who has thoroughly researched the best home warranty companies, I have unique insight to help you find the most reputable providers offering plans with no deductibles (service call fees).
To find the top home warranty companies with zero or minimal service call fees, I researched the top providers in the market. I looked over sample contracts, talked with customer service representatives, gathered quotes, and read customer reviews. I ranked each provider based on Today’s Homeowner’s unique review criteria that includes factors such as coverage, transparency, customer service, reputation, and overall value. This process helped me identify the best-in-class home warranty providers.
As a homeowner, I know firsthand the sense of security you can get from a reliable home warranty — and that unexpected, costly repairs on home appliances and systems can strain families and put them further into debt. In this guide, I recommend the best home warranty companies with no or smaller deductibles, including their coverage, pricing, customer service, and unique strengths. These top-rated providers have great transparency, comprehensive coverage, and a commitment to customer satisfaction.
Here’s how we ranked and reviewed the nation’s top home warranty companies to bring you the most accurate information.
Our team of experts reviewed over 70 home warranty providers to compare plan options, coverage limits, prices, and customer feedback.
We collected over 100 sample quotes from dozens of home warranty companies to give you an accurate look at industry pricing.
Our rating system scores providers based on 6 key factors: coverage options, affordability, customer experience, reputation, claims processes, and availability.
Read our full Home Warranty Review Methodology for more details.
Top 5 Home Warranty Companies with No Deductible
- Complete Protection Home Warranty stands out as the only provider offering plans with zero deductibles or service call fees. With Complete Protection, you never pay out of pocket for covered repairs — the company pays 100% of approved service calls, including parts and labor costs. If you want to avoid surprise expenses, Complete Protection is your top choice.
- While Liberty Home Guard and American Home Shield charge service fees, their deductibles are reasonable at around $65 to $125 per visit — lower than many competitors’ fees. Even though you’ll have a small out-of-pocket expense with these providers, the costs are manageable for most budgets, and these companies will save you money in other ways.
- Before you sign a contract for any home warranty plan, always read the fine print — especially as it relates to the exclusions and coverage limits. Many home warranty plans exclude coverage due to preexisting conditions and a lack of maintenance. Look for transparent providers that are up front about what they do and don’t cover to avoid claim denials down the road.
What’s Most Important in a Home Warranty with No Deductible?
When you’re looking for a home warranty with no deductible, the most important thing you should nail down is what it covers. Sure, having no deductible for service calls sounds great on paper, but you need to make sure the specific warranty covers all your major home systems and appliances. So, look at a sample contract to see what is and isn’t covered. Look for coverage of all your major home systems and appliances, along with the ability to cover more items with optional add-ons.
Another crucial factor is the company’s reputation for claims handling and customer service. A no-deductible plan loses its value if the provider consistently denies claims or makes the process difficult. Look at recent customer reviews on top platforms like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Trustpilot, and Google. Currently, Complete Protection Home Warranty is the only provider that has no service call fee and is my top pick for this reason. However, its low level of protection and subpar reviews are red flags. More reputable companies, such as Liberty Home Guard and American Home Shield, do have service call fees, but they are affordable — in the $65-$125 range. Plus, they have fewer exclusions and a higher claims acceptance rate, which will save you more money in the long run.
Home Warranty Companies with No Deductible I Don’t Recommend
I don’t recommend AFC Home Club because of its high service call fees. It does have solid coverage options and benefits. However, its deductibles start at $125 per service call, which is way higher than the industry average. For homeowners seeking a no-deductible or low-deductible plan, this high fee is a no-go. When compared to providers such as Complete Protection Home Warranty with zero deductibles or Liberty Home Guard and American Home Shield with deductibles in the $65 to $125 range, AFC’s high service fees don’t make sense for cost-conscious consumers.
Compare The Highest Rated Home Warranties with No Deductible
| Company | Rating | Monthly Cost | Service Fee | Response Time | BBB Rating | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
$50-$60 |
$75 |
12-48 hrs. |
NR |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
$35–$75 |
$100–$125 |
24-72 hrs |
B |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
$44.99-$58.99 |
$70 |
48 hours |
A+ |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
$46–$55 |
$85 |
24-48 hrs. |
B |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
$52–$58 |
$75-$85 |
24-48 hrs. |
B |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
$38–$62 |
$75–$125 |
48 hours |
B |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
$38–$48 |
$75–$125 |
48 hours |
B |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
$17–$60+ |
$65–$100 |
2–24 hrs |
A- |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
$28–$68 |
$100–$150 |
2–24 hrs |
B |
VISIT SITE |
Quote and cost data gathered January 2024. Cost data are updated and monitored continuously.
Our Reviews of the Best Home Warranties
Complete Protection Home Warranty
Our Rating
In my view, Complete Protection Home Warranty stands out for one key reason: it’s the only provider in the industry that charges no service call fees at all. For homeowners on a tight budget who still want robust breakdown protection, having zero out-of-pocket repair costs is a huge selling point that no competitor can match. I’m also impressed by Complete Protection’s four plan tiers — most providers only offer three — which gives you that extra bit of flexibility to find your ideal balance between coverage and affordability.
However, Complete Protection’s plans do have some notable drawbacks to consider. The two cheapest plan options omit critical home components that competitors often include in base coverage. To get comprehensive protection for all your essential systems and appliances, you’ll need to shell out for a pricier top-tier plan. Given those constraints, I would opt for Complete Protection’s Ultimate plan to maximize my coverage. But budget-focused homeowners can find savings with Complete Protection’s lower-tier plans if they’re comfortable with those coverage gaps.
Complete Protection (CP) stands out simply because it is the only provider in the industry with no service call fees. That’s right — you’ll never have to pay a dime out of pocket for service fees with CP when you need a repair. I’m also impressed that Complete Protection offers four plan tiers (most providers offer three). This extra plan level gives you more flexibility to find the right coverage for your budget and home protection needs. And with coverage caps reaching $6,000 per appliance and $10,000 per system, Complete Protection delivers some of the highest reimbursement limits in the industry — matching Elite Home Warranty (albeit with lower limits on certain appliances, systems, and components).
While Complete Protection’s $6,000 to $10,000 coverage caps are generous, that reimbursement maximum only applies to a small subset of items, with most appliances and systems capped at just $100 to $500 per breakdown under the standard terms.
I give Complete Protection a low score for its plan and coverage options. While it offers four plan tiers, which is more than many competitors, the two most affordable plans have notable coverage gaps that limit their value for homeowners. For example, Complete Protection’s entry-level Essential plan only covers six core appliances and systems, omitting common items like refrigerators, washer/dryers, and plumbing that are often included in other providers’ base plans. In my view, homeowners are better off opting for Complete Protection’s pricier Comprehensive or Ultimate plans to access more well-rounded coverage, as the lower-tier plans simply exclude too many important home components to be worth the savings.
| Plan | Monthly Cost | Service Fee | Available Discounts |
| Essential | $49 | $0 | $88/year discount if paying through real estate transaction |
| Advanced | $59 | $0 | $108/year discount if paying through real estate transaction |
| Comprehensive | $69 | $0 | $128/year discount if paying through real estate transaction |
| Ultimate | $79 | $0 | $148/year discount if paying through real estate transaction |
Editor’s Note: The cost data mentioned in this article was sourced for a single-family, two-bedroom home under 5,000 square feet in Granger, IN. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.
Available Add-Ons
CP has the following optional add-ons to its home warranty plans. I like how affordable they are — with most costing less than $10 extra per month.
- Deep Freeze: $6/month
- Furnace/Air Handler (HVAC system): $18/month
- Garbage Disposal: $4/month
- Microwave: $4/month
- Oven: $4/month
- Pool Pump: $12/month
- Septic Pump: $8/month
- Washer: $8/month
- Wine Cooler: $6/month
- Boiler: $26/month
- Dishwasher: $8/month
- Furnace/AC: $28/month
- High-End Appliance: $28/month
- Range: $8/month
- Septic Tank and Lines: $20/month
- Water Heater: $6/month
- Cooktop: $4/month
- Dryer: $4/month
- Garage Door Opener: $4/month
- Ice Machine: $6/month
- Pool Heater: $12/month
- Refrigerator: $8/month
- Trash Compactor: $4/month
- Well Pump and Tank: $8/month
Complete Protection Home Warranty receives a 7.3/10 rating for its pricing structure. Its pricing is appealing but has some drawbacks for cost-conscious homeowners. When I got my quote, I found the ability to choose from four plans at different price points to be a nice feature for customizing coverage to your budget and needs. The customer service representative I spoke to was low pressure, with no aggressive upselling. However, Complete Protection’s most affordable plans omit key coverage items and cap repair reimbursements at only $100 for many components. This may leave you paying more out of pocket in the end compared to other providers with higher limits and service fees. You can review Complete Protection’s sample contract terms for full details, but keep in mind that lower-tier plans restrict certain reimbursements to only $100 to $350 per item, with aggregate coverage caps, so be sure your plan fits your coverage needs before enrolling.
Cinch Home Services has the lowest customer experience score on our list (tied with Liberty Home Guard), and part of that is because their customer service could use some work. Cinch has numerous complaints about service reps being difficult to contact and claims getting dropped because of loopholes iI give Complete Protection a slightly above-average 7.2/10 rating for its customer experience because the sales representatives were helpful and informative without resorting to high-pressure sales tactics. However, Complete Protection lacks some of the convenient communication options other providers offer, such as an online chat feature, which could be limiting for customers who prefer not to contact the company by phone for quotes or support. the fine print of their contract. However, I’ve seen many examples of agents reaching out to unsatisfied reviewers online and fixing the issues with their claims. I wish their customer service problems weren’t present in the first place, but because Cinch’s agents do much more than some competitors to fix their customers’ issues, we raised their score to 7.5/10.
I give Complete Protection Home Warranty a 6.7/10 reputation rating, mostly due to it having a limited number of customer reviews and slightly below-average scores on key rating platforms. While Complete Protection maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, its average customer review score on the site is just 2.71/5 stars and it has a small total review volume of only seven ratings. Customers praise Complete Protection’s helpful service representatives but sometimes cite claim denials or delays as issues. The company appears to respond to most complaints, but the limited number of reviews makes it difficult for me to fully assess its reputation compared to other more extensively reviewed home warranty providers.
| Rating Site* | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | A+ / 2.71 out of 5 stars | 7 |
| Trustpilot | 3.1 out of 5 stars | 55 |
| 3.8 out of 5 stars | 36 |
*Business name on BBB, Trustpilot, and Google is shown as “Complete Appliance Protection.”
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
Cinch Home Services has the second-highest claims process score on our list, mainly because of their high payouts. Complete Protection receives a poor score for its claims process. One thing it does well is that it lets you submit claims 24/7 by phone or online. However, several reviews mention delays in scheduling repairs and unresponsive customer support during the claims process. Complete Protection also caps payouts for many items/components at just $100 to $500, which may not fully cover the cost of repairs or replacement. I suspect these lower caps will leave some homeowners paying more out of pocket compared to providers with low service call fees and larger coverage caps.has a $10,000 annual coverage limit instead of limits for individual items (with some exceptions for certain items). This annual limit actually works in your favor if you only have a few claims a year because while your claim may exceed the individual limits that other companies set ($2,000 for appliances and $4,000 for systems on average), it likely won’t exceed $10,000. Cinch also covers unknown preexisting conditions, which is a helpful feature that not many providers offer. However, Cinch has more exclusions than the competition, lowering their score to 9/10.
Complete Protection Home Warranty gets my respectable 7.5 out of 10 rating for transparency and ease of use. The company provides a clear, easy-to-find sample contract on its website, allowing you to review coverage details, exclusions, and reimbursement limits right away. However, some key coverage caps aren’t explicitly listed online and require reviewing the full contract terms to uncover, which could lead to some confusion for homeowners when selecting a plan.
Exclusions
CP has the following exclusions in its home warranty plans, none of which is out of the ordinary:
- Fire, freeze, flood, or other acts of God — accidents, vandalism, neglect misuse, abuse, missing parts, cosmetic defects, design flaws, manufacturer defect, power failure, shortage, surge, or overload
- Preexisting conditions detectable through visual inspection or simple mechanical tests
- Consequential or secondary damage
- Commercial properties or residential properties used for commercial purposes
- Commercial systems or appliances, or modified commercial equipment
- Closing access to protected items or restoration of landscaping, wall coverings, flooring, countertops, or structural/cosmetic components
- Removal of defective systems and appliances
- Cost of construction, carpentry, or modifications necessary for repairs/replacements
- Normal or routine maintenance (except HVAC preventive maintenance)
- Specific plumbing items such as hose bibs, sprinkler systems, pool piping, bathtubs, whirlpool tubs, and toilet lids and seats
- Various electrical items including wireless remotes, telephone wiring, intercoms, alarms, electronic management systems, security systems, doorbells, and smoke detectors
Editor’s Note: While this article highlights certain exclusions, it’s imperative for readers to review their contracts as the mentioned exclusions are not exhaustive, and additional exclusions may apply.
Complete Protection Home Warranty receives a low 5.0/10 rating for its limited flexibility in choosing service providers. You can use only its network of approved contractors for all covered repairs, which can be inconvenient if you prefer to work with technicians you already know and trust.
Liberty Home Guard
4.6
Our Rating
Liberty Home Guard (LHG) stands out to me for its exceptional customization options and comprehensive coverage. It has an industry-leading 42 optional add-ons, so you can tailor your plan to your home’s unique needs. With LHG, you can protect unique home items that most providers exclude, such as generators, sump pumps, and roof leak coverage. No other home warranty company provides this much customization, which makes Liberty Home Guard a top choice for homeowners seeking personalized coverage.
However, I’m not thrilled with its low $2,000 coverage limits for appliances and systems. If you need to replace a refrigerator or air conditioning system that’s failed beyond repair, you may well have to pay overages out of pocket. If you’re worried about this, American Home Shield and Elite Home Warranty offer much higher limits (but less customization). Another small downside is Liberty’s service fees, which range from $65 to $125 depending on where you live and what type of repair you need. I think these are reasonable, but they’re still higher than Complete Protection Home Warranty’s $0 service call fees. Still, I recommend Liberty Home Guard to all homeowners for its strong customization options, transparent business practices, and efficient claims process. I would choose its Total Home Guard plan to get coverage for both appliances and systems.
Check out this video to learn more about home warranties with Liberty Home Guard:
I love Liberty Home Guard’s exceptional customization options — 42 optional add-ons to tailor your coverage. This flexibility is unmatched by competitors and allows you to protect unique items like generators and sump pumps — which are especially valuable given the frequent power outages and heavy rainfall in many states. While Liberty Home Guard does have deductibles ranging from $65 to $125, the ability to create a plan that perfectly fits your home’s needs makes it a top choice.
One of Liberty Home Guard’s biggest downsides is its $2,000 coverage caps for appliances and systems. These limits just aren’t enough with today’s prices if you need full replacements. Other providers have much higher limits — such as American Home Shield with $3,000 for appliances and $5,000 for systems. Another thing I dislike about Liberty Home Guard is that its service call fee (deductible) ranges from $65 to $125, which, while affordable, is still higher than Complete Protection Home Warranty’s $0.
I give Liberty Home Guard a perfect score for its plans and coverage due to its unparalleled flexibility and customization options. LHG offers three base plans — Appliance Guard, Systems Guard, and Total Home Guard — and an astounding 42 add-ons. With this degree of customization, you can get the exact amount and type of coverage you need for your home. I recommend the Total Home Guard plan to all homeowners because it covers both appliances and systems, making it the best value. Even though its service fee ranges from $65 to $125, Liberty Home Guard has attractive monthly premiums, which are even better with the discounts I found — two months free and $225 off.
| Plan | Monthly Cost | Service Fee | Available Discounts |
| Appliance Guard | $49.99 | $65 – $125 | 2 months free, $225-off coupon |
| Systems Guard | $54.99 | $65 – $125 | 2 months free, $225-off coupon |
| Total Home Guard | $59.99 | $65 – $125 | 2 months free, $225-off coupon |
Editor’s Note: The cost data mentioned in this article was sourced for a single-family, two-bedroom home under 5,000 square feet in Granger, IN. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.
Available Add-Ons
Liberty has the following add-ons. As someone who owns a whole-house generator, I like the affordable option to protect this expensive system.
- Carpet cleaning: $19.99/month
- Casita guest unit: $35.99/month
- Central vacuum: $8.99/month
- Ejector pump: $14.99/month
- Electronics protection: $19.99/month
- Freestanding ice maker: $14.99/month
- Generator: $19.99/month
- Grinder pump: $14.99/month
- Gutter cleaning: $14.99/month
- Ice maker (in-fridge): $3.99/month
- Instant hot water dispenser: $9.99/month
- Lawn sprinkler system: $9.99/month
- Lighting fixtures: $7.99/month
- Limited roof leak: $11.99/month
- Pest control: $14.99/month
- Plumbing fixtures: $7.99/month
- Pool and spa: $19.99/month
- Additional spa: $9.99/month
- Power washing (exterior flooring): $19.99/month
- Pro-series clothes dryer: $4.99/month
- Pro-series dishwasher: $7.99/month
- Pro-series microwave: $4.99/month
- Pro-series range/oven/cooktop: $12.99/month
- Pro-series refrigerator: $14.99/month
- Pro-series standalone freezer: $14.99/month
- Pro-series washing machine: $4.99/month
- Re-key: $9.99/month
- Reverse osmosis water filter system: $14.99/month
- Saltwater pool: $23.99/month
- Second refrigerator: $7.99/month
- Septic system pumping: $12.99/month
- Sump pump: $8.99/month
- Swamp cooler: $14.99/month
- Trash compactor: $7.49/month
- TV mounting (up to 65-inch TVs): $14.99/month
- TV mounting (up to 85-inch TVs): $19.99/month
- Water dispenser water line: $4.99/month
- Water softener: $13.99/month
- Well pump: $12.99/month
- Window washing/cleaning: $19.99/month
- Wine cooler/fridge: $11.99/month
Liberty Home Guard has affordable plans that start at $49.99 per month — on par with the industry average. However, some of its add-ons cost $14.99 per month or more — which can really add up if you need several. Additionally, Liberty Home Guard service call fees range from $65 to $125. So, its base plans are affordable, but its higher add-on costs and service fees are downsides. I give Liberty Home Guard a 7.8 out of 10 for cost and affordability, as the company provides good value for those who only need basic coverage, but the overall cost can quickly increase with multiple add-ons.
Liberty Home Guard provides a user-friendly website and straightforward online quoting process, making it easy for customers to compare plans and customize their coverage. However, some customers have reported slower response times when filing a claim, and others have mentioned difficulty reaching a supervisor when escalating an issue. While Liberty Home Guard’s customer experience is generally positive, with a 60-day workmanship guarantee and fast coverage starting in 30 days, there is room for improvement in claims handling and customer support, which is why I give them a 7.5/10 rating.
I give Liberty Home Guard props for its stellar reputation. It holds high customer ratings on review platforms like Google (4.7 out of 5 stars) and Trustpilot (4.7 out of 5 stars) — many customers like its responsive customer service, comprehensive coverage, and easy claims process. While Liberty Home Guard’s BBB rating is currently not rated (NR) due to a recent influx of complaints, LHG still holds a high customer review rating of 4.48 out of 5 stars on the platform. This shows me that most customers are still happy with it.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | NR* / 4.48 out of 5 stars | 2,479 |
| Trustpilot | 4.7 out of 5 stars | 2,793 |
| 4.7 out of 5 stars | 11,408 | |
| Yelp | 1.2 out of 5 stars | 72 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
*Note (as of 6/20/24): Recently, the Better Business Bureau shifted LHG’s A+ rating to “NR” (Not Rated). We reached out to a representative from LHG for comment, and they shared this statement: “Despite the BBB’s alert, our customer satisfaction levels remain by far the highest relative to our scale. Last month, we had the lowest percentage of customer cancellation requests in our entire history. On the BBB’s own platform, Liberty Home Guard has achieved a star rating of 4.5 out of 5 from nearly 2,500 reviews. For added context, the approximately 480 resolved complaints on Liberty Home Guard’s BBB profile equate to an extremely low fraction of a percentage relative to the size and scale of our total customer base. As we navigate this situation, which we believe will be resolved in time, we want to assure you that we remain committed to our customers and their satisfaction; they are the key stakeholders we orient all our efforts around.”
Liberty Home Guard stands out for its efficient claims process, boasting a 12-hour average response time and valuable emergency repair services that many competitors lack. The company excels at addressing urgent issues like plumbing leaks, HVAC breakdowns, and appliance failures quickly, providing minimal disruption to your daily life. Customer reviews consistently praise Liberty Home Guard’s smooth claims process and prompt payouts after claim approval, setting the company apart from others in the industry.
Liberty Home Guard earns my 9.3 out of 10 rating for transparency and ease of use, thanks to its user-friendly website and straightforward online quoting process. The company provides clear plan details and sample contracts, making it easy for potential customers to understand what’s covered and what’s not, without burying important information in the fine print.
Exclusions
Liberty has the following exclusions, which are typical in the industry:
- Cosmetic defects
- Cranes or other specialty vehicles required to install, remove, or access your appliances or home systems
- Disposal of appliances, systems, or components
- Electronics, computerized, “smart,” or Internet/enabled components and parts
- Filters associated with any covered items
- Fire sprinkler systems
- Flues, vents, chimneys, and exhaust lines
- Glass parts
- Lighting
- Malfunction or damage caused by acts of God
- Noise
- Radon and other leak detection monitoring systems
- Remote receiving and transmitting devices
- Solar systems and applications
Editor’s Note: While this article highlights certain exclusions, it’s imperative for readers to review their contracts as the mentioned exclusions are not exhaustive, and additional exclusions may apply.
Liberty Home Guard lets policyholders choose their own service providers, giving them the flexibility to work with trusted local contractors. This feature earns it my perfect 10 out of 10 rating, as it empowers customers to select technicians they’re comfortable with and ensures a more personalized repair experience.
American Home Shield
4.3
Our Rating
I love American Home Shield’s strong coverage, high coverage limits, and vast contractor network. Its unique offerings include roof leak protection (included in the ShieldPlatinum plan), coverage for older appliances and systems, and even protection against rust, corrosion, and preexisting conditions. It’s the best choice for homeowners with older or higher-end equipment.
That said, American Home Shield (AHS) has higher monthly fees and service call fees — ranging from $100 to $125. So, if you want the lowest deductible, it may not be the best fit for you. Additionally, it’s received a significant number of complaints from the Better Business Bureau and Trustpilot about slow response times, denied claims, and misunderstandings about coverage terms. While AHS does provide comprehensive coverage when claims are approved, the volume of negative feedback shows me it has a long runway for improvement in customer service and claims handling.
I’d consider purchasing the ShieldPlatinum plan from American Home Shield if I had high-value appliances and systems, as the expanded coverage limits and included extras like roof leak protection and HVAC tune-ups could provide valuable peace of mind. However, I recommend carefully reviewing the service contract to make sure you fully understand the terms and exclusions before signing up.
American Home Shield impresses me with its unique coverage options, including roof leak protection and higher coverage limits of $4,000 to $5,000 per item. I appreciate that AHS covers rust, corrosion, and preexisting conditions, which many competitors exclude, making it an excellent choice for older homes. With over 50 years of experience and a vast network of skilled contractors, American Home Shield can provide specialized repair services for any home’s unique needs.
I don’t like that AHS has received numerous complaints on sites like the BBB and Trustpilot. Many customer reviews cite slow response times, denied claims, and misunderstandings about coverage terms. In fact, American Home Shield has thousands of complaints on Trustpilot alone — far more than top competitors like Liberty Home Guard and Select Home Warranty. This higher volume of negative feedback concerns me and suggests AHS has room for improvement in customer service and claims handling.
American Home Shield offers ShieldSilver for major systems, ShieldGold covering some systems and appliances, and the comprehensive ShieldPlatinum plan. Unique to ShieldPlatinum is roof leak repair and free HVAC tune-ups — normally excluded by other home warranty providers (or offered as optional add-ons). The tune-up is a nice bonus to help prevent AC failure in the middle of summer — making it worthy of my 9/10 rating for this alone. AHS also highlights covering items regardless of age and preexisting defects — unlike competitors including Select Home Warranty and Liberty Home Guard.
| Plan | Monthly Cost* | Service Fee* | Available Discounts |
| ShieldSilver | $29.99, $39.99 | $100, $125 | 20% off same-day sign-up discount |
| ShieldGold | $49.99, $59.99 | $100, $125 | 20% off same-day sign-up discount |
| ShieldPlatinum | $79.99, $89.99 | $100, $125 | 20% off same-day sign-up discount |
*If you choose the lower service fee of $100, you pay the higher monthly premium. For example, the $39.99 rate for the ShieldSilver plan pairs with the $100 service fee.
Editor’s Note: The cost data mentioned in this article was sourced for a single-family, two-bedroom home under 5,000 square feet in Granger, IN. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.
Available Add-Ons
Compared to other home warranty providers, AHS offers very little in terms of additional coverage options. Still, I appreciate the roof leak repair add-on for just $10 per month.
- Electronics protection plan: $14/month
- Guest unit: $15.99/month
- Pool and built-in-spa equipment: $18/month
- Roof leak repair: $10/month
- Septic pump: $5/month
- Well pump: $8/month
American Home Shield costs more than some competitors, with higher monthly fees and $100 to $125 service charges. However, you can choose the lower service call fee for a slightly higher monthly premium or vice versa. Either way, you get stronger coverage in return. Cheaper plans from other providers often cap system coverage at around $2,000. AHS extends that to $5,000 — giving you much more protection. For pools, its $3,000 limit also triples what Liberty Home Guard provides. While AHS lacks a low monthly premium and service fee, its elevated coverage caps can save you money over time by lowering expensive repair bills, earning it my fair 7.5 out of 10 rating.
I had high expectations for great service from a long-running company like American Home Shield. However, I found too many complaints about communication issues — many people said agents didn’t return calls or messages. I hate seeing that from an industry leader — I expect better responsiveness.
However, American Home Shield does provide homeowners with dedicated account managers. So, if you have issues with one agent, you have backup options to contact. The company also gives you multiple ways to get support beyond phone calls. Plus, its standard waiting period before a new policy kicks in is 30 days — much better than other providers that make homeowners wait 60 days or more. As a result, I give American Home Shield an above-average 8.1 out of 10 rating for customer experience.
American Home Shield holds an excellent 4.5-star rating on Google. However, it gets concerningly low ratings on sites like the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, and Yelp — knocking my rating for its reputation down to a 7.3/10. Many complaints involve late contractors, rejected claims, and slow responses from the company. However, some negative reviews likely come from customers not fully understanding what their policies cover and what the limits are before signing up. Despite the low ratings, even critical customers acknowledge American Home Shield provides strong home warranty coverage when things go smoothly with claims and contractors. AHS also replies to nearly every negative review on Trustpilot, showing the company’s making an effort to address complaints and improve service where possible.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | B / 2.1 out of 5 stars | 11,017 |
| Trustpilot | 2.1 out of 5 stars | 5,363 |
| 4.5 out of 5 stars | 33,297 | |
| Yelp | 1.1 out of 5 stars | 1,296 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
American Home Shield makes the claims process smooth and convenient for homeowners. Its 24/7 customer service and ability to file claims around the clock bring added peace of mind. Home systems and appliances can fail at any time. Having reliable help available right away is key, especially for urgent issues like roof leaks, AC breakdowns, and plumbing issues. Once you submit a claim by phone or through American Home Shield’s website, tracking the status online is simple. You can easily follow your repair history and contact American Home Shield with any questions. As a result, I give American Home Shield a great, but not perfect rating for its claims process.
I found American Home Shield’s website wonderfully user-friendly. It neatly organizes different plans, coverage tiers, and add-ons so households can easily customize suitable policies matching their budgets and needs. Rather than a single sample contract like some providers, AHS supplies a transparent example agreement illustrating each plan’s specifics. This simplified shopping process deserves my high 9.4/10 rating. American Home Shield also avoids pushy sales tactics that irritate customers. Its 24/7 availability proves more convenient for urgent issues, too. Additionally, customer feedback cites great communication and professional services addressing claims — two of the most important factors to me for positive experiences.
Exclusions
AHS has the following exclusions to its home warranty plans:
- Damage due to pets or pests
- Failure to properly clean or maintain home systems or appliances
- Foundation or structural damage
- Improper installation, improper wiring, or damage caused by construction activity
- Manufacturer’s defect
- Misuse or human error
- Malfunction or damage due to natural disasters
- Neglect, rust, corrosion, or sediment
- Removal of hazardous materials such as asbestos, lead, or other toxic materials
Editor’s Note: While this article highlights certain exclusions, it’s imperative for readers to review their contracts as the mentioned exclusions are not exhaustive, and additional exclusions may apply.
American Home Shield doesn’t let you choose your own contractors for repairs. Instead, it assigns a technician from its network of over 15,000 licensed contractors nationwide. While this takes choice out of the policyholder’s hands, AHS thoroughly vets each contractor for quality. The lack of flexibility means you may not get your preferred vendor, but it ensures repairs meet AHS’s strict standards. So, I give American Home Shield a fair 5 out of 10 rating for its service provider flexibility.
Select Home Warranty
4.2
Our Rating
I love Select Home Warranty (SHW)’s affordable monthly rates and straightforward coverage options. Its monthly premiums are consistently lower than those of most competitors, making it a top choice for budget-conscious homeowners. Additionally, SHW’s inclusion of roof coverage in all its plans stands out to me. Most other providers only offer it as an expensive add-on or in their premium plans.
However, Select Home Warranty’s modest coverage caps of $3,000 per appliance or system may be too low if you have high-end or luxury equipment. In this case, you should consider providers like American Home Shield or Elite Home Warranty, which offer higher coverage limits. Furthermore, Select Home Warranty has fewer optional add-ons compared to some competitors, which limits your customization options — a big drawback if you have uncommon systems and appliances. Despite these drawbacks, I believe Select Home Warranty’s affordability, transparency, and inclusion of roof coverage make it a solid choice for many homeowners. Personally, I would consider purchasing their Platinum Care plan for its comprehensive coverage at a reasonable price point.
I like that Select Home Warranty offers cheaper monthly premiums compared to many competitors like Liberty Home Guard and American Home Shield. Paying less each month provides welcome savings that add up over time for homeowners on a budget. Even better, Select includes comprehensive roof coverage in all its plans — a feature most rival companies surprisingly omit or only include through expensive add-ons or top-tier plan levels.
I don’t like SHW’s coverage caps of just $3,000 per appliance or system. These may be insufficient for homeowners with high-end or luxury equipment, as repairs or replacements for these items can easily exceed that amount. In comparison, Elite Home Warranty offers coverage caps of up to $6,000 for appliances and $10,000 for systems. Additionally, Select Home Warranty provides fewer optional add-ons (nine) compared to competitors like Liberty Home Guard, which offers over 40 add-ons for enhanced customization.
Select Home Warranty gets my 8.3 out of 10 rating for its decent plan options, great pricing, and good customer experience. I appreciate SHW’s value focus for homeowners wanting financial security without complexity. It provides straightforward Bronze, Gold, and Platinum tier options clearly covering either appliances, systems, or both. This simplified approach makes picking the right protections easier compared to competitors with confusing plan names. Select’s affordable pricing also stands out.
SHW offers below-average monthly premiums that beat leading brands like Liberty Home Guard and American Home Shield. Paying less over time saves you money. However, Select’s $3,000 coverage cap per item may only cover just basic home appliances and systems. Hot summers stress AC units to the max, especially if you live in the Southwest. More expensive and larger AC units often require double the coverage to replace. Before enrolling, weigh the costs of your existing systems and major appliances and your monthly budget. I’d recommend SHW’s broader Platinum Care plan for residents who want a well-rounded complete home protection option. It covers more at a still-reasonable price. But for high-end appliances or specialty systems, consider Liberty Home Guard or Elite Home Warranty, which offer higher caps and greater customization opportunities instead.
| Plan | Monthly Cost* | Service Fee | Available Discounts |
| Bronze Care (appliance plan) | $44.42 | $75 | $150 off, two extra months free (website) |
| Gold Care (systems plan) | $44.42 | $75 | $150 off, two extra months free (website) |
| Platinum Care (combined plan) | $47.75 | $75 | $150 off, two extra months free (website) |
*Monthly cost figures provided include the discounted rate offered at the time of writing ($16 off).
Editor’s Note: The cost data mentioned in this article was sourced for a single-family, two-bedroom home under 5,000 square feet in Granger, IN. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.
Available Add-Ons
Select offers the following optional add-ons. I appreciate the affordable monthly costs to protect your lawn sprinkler system, septic system, spa, and pool.
- Central vacuum: $3.33/month
- Lawn sprinkler system: $5.83/month
- Pool: $8.33/month
- Roof leak: free
- Septic system: $5.83/month
- Spa: $5.83/month
- Stand-alone freezer: $3.33/month
- Sump pump: $3.33/month
- Well pump: $3.33/month
Select Home Warranty has highly affordable premiums, which are around $40 per month when you include its regularly offered discount of $16 — much more affordable than the industry average of $50 to $60 per month. Additionally, Select has lower-than-average service call fees of $75. These competitive rates apply across Select’s Bronze, Gold, and Platinum plans, protecting either appliances or systems without the steep upcharges some providers impose. While Select’s coverage caps of $2,000 per appliance are lower than those of some competitors, the company’s commitment to providing value-driven plans and transparent pricing earns it an impressive rating for cost and affordability.
Select Home Warranty makes getting a new home warranty simple with its user-friendly website and efficient online quote system. Unlike some competitors that overwhelm customers with high-pressure sales tactics and confusing plan options, Select lets you browse at your own pace. It clearly outlines available plans, pricing details, coverage specifics, and add-ons online, letting you pick the best options for your home and budget. This transparent, no-nonsense approach to customer service sets Select Home Warranty apart in an industry where pushy sales practices and confusing contracts are common.
Select Home Warranty has a mixed reputation on top review platforms, earning a 7.7 out of 10 rating from me. While it holds a B rating with the Better Business Bureau, customer reviews on the BBB platform are less favorable, with an average of 1.34 stars. However, Select has better ratings on Trustpilot, where it has 3.7 stars with over 4,800 reviews. Positive reviews like Select’s easy enrollment process, affordable pricing, and responsive customer service. On the other hand, negative reviews complain about claim denials, slow repairs, late contractors, or misunderstandings about coverage. Despite the subpar reviews, I still think SHW compares favorably to some of its competitors in terms of customer satisfaction.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | B / 1.32 out of 5 stars | 2,081 |
| Trustpilot | 3.7 out of 5 stars | 4,853 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
Select Home Warranty has a simple claims process — it allows you to submit service requests online or by phone. It generally meets industry standards with a 48-hour response time for non-emergency claims. However, some customers have reported delays in service. On the positive side, SHW does provide 24/7 emergency service for critical issues like HVAC failures or plumbing leaks, which means you’ll get fast service when you need it. However, I give it a lower but respectable 7 out of 10 rating. It has plenty of room for improvement in terms of consistency and efficiency in claims handling compared to top competitors in the industry.
I give Select Home Warranty an impressive 8.5 out of 10 for its transparency. It has clear and concise plan information on its website — coverage details, pricing, and sample contracts. Quick access to this information makes it simple for you to compare coverage, providers, and plans. While some home warranty companies bury important information in the fine print, Select Home Warranty highlights its exclusions and limitations, clearly, giving you the best tools to make informed decisions.
Exclusions
SHW has the exclusions listed below for its home warranties. All are typical in the industry.
- Common areas in condominiums or multifamily homes
- Damage from natural disasters and rust
- Defects or damages caused by the foundation and structure of the home
- Incorrect installation or malfunctions due to construction damage or improper wiring
- Issues with systems or appliances related to hazardous or toxic materials (like mold, asbestos, and gas leaks)
- Secondary damage (i.e., your home warranty may cover roof damage but won’t cover water damage caused by a roof leak)
- Solar heating systems
Editor’s Note: While this article highlights certain exclusions, it’s imperative for readers to review their contracts as the mentioned exclusions are not exhaustive, and additional exclusions may apply.
Select Home Warranty lets you choose your own service provider — you can use a trusted local contractor you are comfortable with. This level of control over the repair process is highly advantageous for homeowners and earns Select Home Warranty a perfect 10 out of 10 score from me.
Elite Home Warranty
4.3
Our Rating
What stands out to me the most with Elite Home Warranty (EHW) is its high coverage caps — $6,000 for appliances and $10,000 for systems. These limits are two to three times higher than those of competitors such as Liberty Home Guard and Select Home Warranty — giving you a better sense of financial security for your expensive home items. Another feather in EHW’s cap is its 4.5- to 5-star ratings across top review platforms like Google, Trustpilot, and the BBB. If you have premium appliances and systems and want the best possible protection, Elite Home Warranty is the clear choice.
However, EHW does have a few shortcomings — mainly its emergency repair services. Most top competitors offer 24/7 emergency assistance. Instead of matching competitors, Elite charges a $150 fee for weekend and after-hours emergencies. This could leave budget-strapped homeowners waiting in discomfort over the weekend just to avoid this “penalty.” Additionally, Elite’s customer service reps could be more up front about this fee along with the cost of its add-ons. That said, I still believe Elite Home Warranty has exceptional coverage limits and a strong reputation, and I would recommend it to any homeowner — opt for the Elite Complete plan for the most comprehensive coverage.
I appreciate Elite Home Warranty’s high coverage limits of $6,000 for appliances and $10,000 for home systems. These limits are significantly higher than those of most competitors — giving you enhanced peace of mind for your expensive items. I also appreciate Elite’s 4.5- to 5-star ratings across review sites like Google, Yelp, and Trustpilot, which shows me its commitment to customer satisfaction and sets Elite apart from the typical 2- to 3-star ratings in the home warranty industry.
I strongly dislike that Elite Home Warranty’s emergency repair services are only available during regular weekday business hours unless you pay an extra $150 fee. This is a significant inconvenience for homeowners whose AC unit break down on a hot weekend or whose furnace fails in the dead of winter. In comparison, companies like American Home Shield and Liberty Home Guard offer 24/7 emergency service without additional charges, ensuring that customers receive prompt assistance whenever they need it most.
I give Elite Home Warranty my rare perfect 10 out of 10 rating for its comprehensive plans. It has three tiers of coverage — the Elite Appliance plan, Elite Systems plan, and Elite Complete plan, which combines both appliance and system coverage. What I like the most about EHW is its industry-leading coverage caps — $6,000 per appliance and $10,000 per system — the average in the industry is just $2,000 to $3,000. While Elite’s plans are on par with those of other top providers, its higher coverage limits make it an ideal choice if you have high-end/luxury systems and appliances. Of Elite Home Warranty’s lineup, I highly recommend the Elite Complete plan — it offers the most comprehensive coverage and the best value for your home.
| Plan | Monthly Cost | Service Fee | Available Discounts |
| Elite Appliance | $48.99 | $100 | $150 sign-up and 30-day trial (phone) |
| Elite Systems | $52.99 | $100 | $150 sign-up and 30-day trial (phone) |
| Elite Complete | $59.99 | $100 | $150 sign-up and 30-day trial (phone) |
Editor’s Note: The cost data mentioned in this article was sourced for a single-family, two-bedroom home under 5,000 square feet in Granger, IN. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.
Available Add-Ons
EHW has the following optional add-ons for your home. If you have less-common equipment like a generator or geothermal heating and cooling system, you can protect those items with an EHW warranty. Note that EHW’s add-ons are priced per year rather than per month.
- Attic exhaust fan: $69.99/year
- Central vacuum: $49.00/year
- Effluent pump: $99.99/year
- Ejector pump: $99.99/year
- Freestanding freezer: $59.99/year
- Freestanding ice maker: $59.99/year
- Freestanding spa equipment: $119.99/year
- Generator: $99.99/year
- Geothermal heating and cooling system: $299.99/year
- Grinder pump: $99.99/year
- Guest house: $299.99/year
- HVAC annual maintenance: $299.99/year
- Jetted/hot tub: $99.99/year
- Lawn Sprinkler System: $99.99/year
- Lift pump: $99.99/year
- Limited roof leak repair: $99.99/year
- Pool and spa equipment: $199.99/year
- Pool equipment: $149.99/year
- Premium appliances: $249.99/year
- Premium benefits: $199.99/year
- Premium systems: $299.99/year
- Premium systems plus: $499.99/year
- Septic system: $129.99/year
- Service lines: $349.99/year
- Sump pump: $99.99/year
- Swamp cooler: $149.99/year
- Water filtration system: $99.99/year
- Water softener: $99.99/year
- Well pump: $99.99/year
- Wine cooler: $69.99/year
Elite Home Warranty’s monthly premiums are competitive and affordable — ranging from $45 to $60. However, when I was secret shopping, its sales team was frustratingly vague about the additional costs of the optional add-ons. I know optional add-ons cost extra, but the rep I spoke to wouldn’t tell me the pricing. Plus, these add-on charges are buried deep in the website.
Furthermore, Elite has an affordable service call fee of $100, which is on par with competitors like American Home Shield. However, it has some additional fees that can quickly add up — a $150 charge for weekend or emergency service calls and another $150 fee for premium brand technicians. On the plus side, Elite offers a 30-day free trial and $150 off for enrolling by phone. Still, the lack of transparency surrounding add-on costs and the potential for high additional fees make it harder to budget for a home warranty with EHW. Thus, I give Elite a 7.5/10 rating for cost and affordability.
Elite Home Warranty’s customer experience gets a decent 7.5 out of 10 rating from me as it has room for improvement in several areas. First, its website is challenging to navigate and lacks pricing and some ease of use that competitors such as Liberty Home Guard and American Home Shield offer. To even get a quote, you have to call them, which some people just don’t have the time for. Plus, when they get you on the phone, it can quickly turn into a high-pressure sales pitch. While Elite does offer multiple contact options for customer support, some users have reported difficulty getting clear answers to their questions or concerns. Despite these drawbacks, Elite Home Warranty has maintained a relatively high level of customer satisfaction, as its strong ratings on top review sites show.
I’ll be up front here — Elite Home Warranty is a brand-new provider and simply does not have enough reviews for me to give it a fair assessment. That said, it currently holds strong ratings on all of the top review platforms, which gives me enough confidence to give it an 8 out of 10 rating. First, Elite has a perfect A+ rating and a near-perfect 4.97/5 stars on the Better Business Bureau (BBB). On other review platforms such as Trustpilot, Google, and Yelp, Elite also holds high ratings ranging from 4.7 to 4.8 stars. I found very few complaints — most were about slow claims processing or disagreements over covered items. However, these are relatively few, and Elite appears to be proactive in addressing customer concerns. As Elite Home Warranty continues to grow and serve more customers, I have confidence it will continue to earn strong customer feedback.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | A+ / 4.97 out of 5 stars | 404 |
| Trustpilot | 4.8 out of 5 stars | 85 |
| 4.8 out of 5 stars | 180 | |
| Yelp | 4.8 out of 5 stars | 4 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
I give Elite Home Warranty’s claims process a 6 out of 10 rating due to some significant limitations and inconsistencies. While it has 24/7 claims filing online or by phone, which is standard in the industry, Elite falls short by not providing emergency service outside of regular business hours without an additional $150 fee. This can leave homeowners in a difficult position when faced with urgent repair needs during nights, weekends, or holidays. Furthermore, some customer reviews mention delays in the claims process, with Elite taking longer than the industry average to assign technicians and resolve issues. On a positive note, Elite does offer higher payout amounts compared to competitors when it approves claims. However, inconsistent response times and a lack of affordable emergency services can be significant drawbacks for homeowners in need of prompt assistance.
Elite Home Warranty gets a tremendous 9.2/10 rating from me for its transparency. It has clear and accessible information about its plans and coverage on its website. The only downside is that you have to call in to get a quote. You can quickly review sample contracts and detailed breakdowns of what is and isn’t covered under each plan. Elite also highlights its exclusions and limitations, ensuring you understand its coverage before you sign up. Many competitors bury important details in the fine print. However, Elite Home Warranty shines a light on its terms and conditions.
Exclusions
EHW has pretty typical exclusions in the home warranty industry.
- A lack of maintenance
- Acts of God
- Commercial-grade appliances
- Cosmetic damage
- Natural disaster-related damages
- Units in a rental property
Editor’s Note: While this article highlights certain exclusions, it’s imperative for readers to review their contracts as the mentioned exclusions are not exhaustive, and additional exclusions may apply.
Elite Home Warranty lets you use your own trusted local contractors for warranty repairs. This level of control over the repair process is highly beneficial for homeowners — you get a more personalized and comfortable experience.
Calculate the Cost of a Home Warranty with no Deductible
Use our home warranty cost calculator tool below to estimate the full annual cost of a plan.
| Appliance | Average Repair Cost | Average Replacement Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Dehumidifier | $50–$200 | $1,300–$2,800 |
| Microwave | $50–$400 | $60–$2,000 |
| Dishwasher | $50–$500 | $400–$3,000 |
| Exhaust Fans | $16–$300 | $250–$950 |
| Electric Range | $100–$500 | $230–$3,000 |
| Gas Range | $100–$500 | $230–$3,000 |
| Dryer | $100–$400 | $450–$2,300 |
| Oven | $100–$430 | $400–$3,000 |
| Washer | $50–$450 | $400–$2,300 |
| Freezer | $90–$500 | $160–$2,900 |
| Refrigerator | $40–$350 | $200–$5,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Need a Home Warranty with No Deductible?
No, you don’t need a home warranty with no deductible. Just because a provider has no service call fees doesn’t mean it excels in all areas. For example, they may approve fewer claims and have more exclusions to protect themselves from losing money.
How Much Does a Home Warranty Cost with No Deductible?
A home warranty with a $0 or more-affordable service call fees range from $500 to $600 per year. Plus, you’ll have to pay for any overages and service call fees for repair visits, too. See our detailed guide on home warranty costs for more details.
How To Save Money When Shopping for Home Warranties with No Deductible?
An easy way to save money on home warranties with no deductibles is to look and ask for discounts while you’re getting quotes. I recommend comparing plans for at least three providers and waiting a few days before making a decision (most providers will provide extra discounts when you wait a few days after getting a quote).
Is a Home Warranty With No Deductible Worth It?
In my opinion, a home warranty with no deductible isn’t worth it. For a home warranty to give you “free” service visits, they have to make up for this lost money elsewhere. This often means they’ll approve fewer claims, have more exclusions, and charge a higher monthly premium. My recommendation is to choose a provider with low deductibles to make your home warranty worth it.
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