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6 Best Home Warranty Companies in Albany, CA

Written By David Cusick

Last Updated June 2024

With hot summers, keeping your home appliances and systems — particularly your HVAC — in working order is very important for homeowners in Albany. A home warranty in Albany can help lower your out-of-pocket costs by covering repairs or replacements to major home appliances and systems that malfunction due to normal wear and tear.

Finding the right protection for your home can be difficult, so our team at Today's Homeowner has done the research to help you find the best home warranty companies in Albany. Keep reading for our home warranty recommendations.

Our Recommended Providers

Advertisement This site receives compensation from some of the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. When you click "Get Quote," you will be connected with partners who may contact you with information related to your inquiry. This listing doesn't feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Top Pick
4.1/5
  • Comprehensive coverage
  • Decent coverage caps
  • No exclusions for older homes
Best For First Time Homeowners
4.2/5
  • The oldest and most trusted company in the industry
  • Allows customers to build their own plans
  • Ability to choose the service fee you want to pay
Best for Customization
4.5/5
  • Holds high ratings among customer service reviews
  • Covers repairs with a 60-day workmanship guarantee
  • Offers an extensive list of 30+ add-on coverages

The 6 Best Home Warranty Companies in Albany

Choice Home Warranty

Over 10 years of experience

24/7 customer service team

Home inspections aren’t required

90-day repair guarantee

Plans aren’t customizable

Customers can’t choose their own contractor

Not available in washington

Choice Home Warranty is the best overall home warranty in Albany. Choice is a home warranty company with 15 years of experience in the industry, and it has become one of the best providers in the business. The 2 plans from Choice are comprehensive and offer a mix of both system and appliance coverage. Choice has established itself as a company with very high coverage caps and simple-to-understand service contracts. It also has great customer service, professional contractors, and lower out-of-pocket costs compared to other home warranties.

There are 2 home warranty plans from Choice Home Warranty: Basic Plan and Total Plan. Service fees from Choice are an affordable $85. The coverage caps are also typically about $3,000 at the maximum.

To receive a free quote from Choice Home Warranty, fill out this online form or give them a call at 929-400-6164. Read our detailed review of Choice Home Warranty to learn more.

Basic Plan

Total Plan

Service fee: $85.00Monthly cost: $45.00
Items covered: Ceiling fan , Cooktop exhaust , Dishwasher , Disposal , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door opener , Heating system , Oven , Microwave , Plumbing system , Toilet , Water heater Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Septic , Well pump , Roof leaking , Septic tank , Sump pump , Vacuum , Stand-alone freezer
Service fee: $85.00Monthly cost: $53.33
Items covered: Ceiling fan , Cooktop exhaust , Dishwasher , Disposal , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door opener , Heating system , Oven , Microwave , Plumbing system , Toilet , Water heater , AC , Washer , Dryer , Refrigerator Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Septic , Well pump , Roof leaking , Septic tank , Sump pump , Vacuum , Stand-alone freezer

Select Home Warranty

Low service fees compared to other home warranty providers

Two months of free coverage

Has an appliance-only, systems-only, and combo plan option

90-day repair guarantee

Has a $75 cancellation fee

Low coverage caps

Select Home Warranty is the most cost-effective home warranty in Albany. Select is a home warranty company with 11 years of experience in the industry, and it has become one of the best providers in the business. The 3 plans from Select are comprehensive and offer a mix of both system and appliance coverage. Select has established itself as a company with a highly affordable service fee and free roof coverage upon purchase of a policy plan. It also has an extensive network of highly trained professionals all over the country who are experts in home maintenance.

There are 3 home warranty plans from Select Home Warranty: Bronze Care Plan, Gold Care Plan, and Platinum Care Plan. Service fees from Select are a reasonable $60. The coverage caps are also typically about $2,000 at the maximum.

To receive a free quote from Select Home Warranty, fill out this online form or give them a call at 888-370-3953. Read our detailed review of Select Home Warranty to learn more.

Bronze Care Plan

Gold Care Plan

Platinum Care Plan

Service fee: $60.00Monthly cost: $57.67
Items covered: Disposal , Dishwasher , Dryer , Microwave , Oven , Refrigerator , Washer Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Septic , Sprinkler , Stand-alone freezer , Vacuum , Well pump , Sump pump , Roof leaks
Service fee: $60.00Monthly cost: $57.67
Items covered: Air Conditioner , Ductwork , Electrical , Heating system , Plumbing , Water heater Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Septic , Sprinkler , Stand-alone freezer , Vacuum , Well pump , Sump pump , Roof leaks
Service fee: $60.00Monthly cost: $62.08
Items covered: Disposal , Dishwasher , Dryer , Microwave , Oven , Refrigerator , Washer , Air conditioner , Ductwork , Electrical , Heating system , Plumbing , Water heater , Ceiling fan , Garage door , Plumbing stoppages Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Septic , Sprinkler , Stand-alone freezer , Vacuum , Well pump , Sump pump , Roof leaks

American Home Shield

The oldest and most trusted company in the industry

Allows customers to build their own plans

Ability to choose the service fee you want to pay

Broad coverage on up to 33 appliances and systems

Doesn’t let customers choose their own technician

Doesn’t provide coverage in alaska

American Home Shield is the most customizable home warranty in Albany. AHS is a home warranty company with 26 years of experience in the industry, and it has become one of the best providers in the business. The 3 plans from AHS are comprehensive and offer a mix of both system and appliance coverage. AHS has established itself as a company with the ability to customize your plan with the coverages that work specifically for your home. It also has a remarkably low claim denial rate in comparison to other home warranty companies.

There are 3 home warranty plans from American Home Shield: ShieldSilver, ShieldGold, and ShieldPlatinum. Service fees from AHS are customizable and range from $75 to $125. The coverage caps are also typically about $2,500 at the maximum.

To receive a free quote from American Home Shield, fill out this online form or give them a call at 888-365-2839. Read our detailed review of American Home Shield to learn more.

ShieldSilver

ShieldGold

ShieldPlatinum

Service fee: $75.00 - $125.00Monthly cost: $29.27 - $44.27
Items covered: Air Conditioner , Alarm , Attic fans , Bath exhaust fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust , Disposal , Doorbell , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door , Heating system , Locksmith , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Toilet , Water dispenser , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Pool , Spa , PC , TV , Septic , Well pump
Service fee: $75.00 - $125.00Monthly cost: $39.27 - $54.27
Items covered: Air conditioner , Alarm , Attic fans , Bath exhaust fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust , Dishwasher , Doorbell , Dryer , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door , Heating system , Microwave , Oven , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Refrigerator , Toilet , Trash compactor , Washer , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Pool , Spa , PC , TV , Septic , Well pump
Service fee: $75.00 - $125.00Monthly cost: $59.27 - $74.27
Items covered: Air conditioner , Alarm , Attic fans , Bath exhaust fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust , Dishwasher , Disposal , Doorbell , Dryer , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door , Heating system , Locksmith , Microwave , Oven , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Refrigerator , Roof leaks , Toilet , Trash compactor , Washer , Water dispenser , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Pool , Spa , PC , TV , Septic , Well pump

First American Home Warranty

Established company with a bbb accreditation

Doesn’t have a coverage cap on heating, cooling, or ductwork

24/7 service calls available

Offers replacement of some covered items that are too damaged to repair

Doesn’t let customers choose their own contractor

According to some customer reviews, the technical jargon in contracts is confusing

First American Home Warranty is the best home warranty for appliance coverage in Albany. First American is a home warranty company with 39 years of experience in the industry, and it has become one of the best providers in the business. The 2 plans from First American are comprehensive and offer a mix of both system and appliance coverage. First American has established itself as a company with very affordable and comprehensive appliance coverage. It also has a unique add-on alongside common ones called the First Class Upgrade, which covers fees associated with the use of lifting equipment, up to $250 per local building permits, haul away services, and appliances and systems that have been insufficiently installed or modified.

There are 2 home warranty plans from First American Home Warranty: Basic Plan and Premier Plan. Service fees from First American are a reasonable $85. The coverage caps are also typically about $1,500 at the maximum.

To receive a free quote from First American Home Warranty, fill out this online form or give them a call at 833-204-7164. Read our detailed review of First American Home Warranty to learn more.

Basic Plan

Premier Plan

Service fee: $85.00Monthly cost: $38.00
Items covered: Attic fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust fan , Dishwasher , Disposal , Dryer , Microwave , Oven , Refrigerator , Trash compactor , Washer , Water dispenser Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Air conditioner , Septic tank , Septic , Well pump , First-class upgrade
Service fee: $85.00Monthly cost: $48.50
Items covered: Attic fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust fan , Dishwasher , Disposal , Dryer , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door , Heating system , Microwave , Oven , Plumbing system , Plumbing stoppages , Refrigerator , Toilet , Trash compactor , Vacuum , Water heater , Washer , Water dispenser Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Air conditioner , Septic tank , Septic , Well pump , First-class upgrade

Cinch Home Services

Offers home insurance deductible of $500

Extra long 180-day workmanship guarantee

Offers free cancellation in the first 30 days

Charges high service fees of $75-$150

Doesn’t allow customers to choose their own technician

Isn’t available in hawaii or alaska

Cinch Home Services is the home warranty with the best workmanship guarantee in Albany. Cinch is a home warranty company with 44 years of experience in the industry, and it has become one of the best providers in the business. The 3 plans from Cinch are comprehensive and offer a mix of both system and appliance coverage. Cinch has established itself as a company with a 180-day workmanship guarantee that ensures your home systems and appliance repairs will be professionally done. It also has a broad range of coverage options that will give homeowners peace of mind.

There are 3 home warranty plans from Cinch Home Services: Appliances Plan, Built-in Systems Plan, and Complete Home Plan. Service fees from Cinch are customizable and range from $75 to $150. The coverage caps are also typically about $1,000-$2,000 at the maximum.

To receive a free quote from Cinch Home Services, fill out this online form or give them a call at 877-589-0505. Read our detailed review of Cinch Home Services to learn more.

Appliances Plan

Built-in Systems Plan

Complete Home Plan

Service fee: $75.00 - $150.00Monthly cost: $34.99 - $50.99
Items covered: Cooktop exhaust fan , Dishwasher , Dryer , Food center , Free-standing ice maker , Microwave , Oven , Refrigerator , Refrigerator ice maker , Trash compactor , Washer Add-on items: Pool , Septic , Well pump
Service fee: $75.00 - $150.00Monthly cost: $39.99 - $57.99
Items covered: Air conditioner , Smoke alarm , Attic fans , Bath exhaust fans , Ceiling fans , Disposal , Doorbell , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door , Heating system , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Septic tank pumping , Spa , Sump pump , Toilet , Vacuum , Water dispenser , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Pool , Septic , Well pump
Service fee: $75.00 - $150.00Monthly cost: $49.99 - $67.99
Items covered: Air conditioner , Alarm , Attic fans , Bath exhaust fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust , Dishwasher , Disposal , Doorbell , Dryer , Ductwork , Electrical , Food center , Free-standing ice maker , Garage door , Heating system , Microwave , Oven , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Refrigerator , Refrigerator ice maker , Septic tank pumping , Spa , Sump pump , Toilet , Trash compactor , Vacuum , Washer , Water dispenser , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Pool , Septic , Well pump

The Home Service Club

Policy starts in ten days

24/7 customer service support

Generous coverage caps on important systems and appliances

30-labor guarantee and 90-day parts guarantee

Offers utility and home service outside line coverage

Higher service fee of $95

Not accredited by the better business bureau (bbb)

Only 2 plan options

The Home Service Club is the best home warranty with the quickest service in Albany. HSC is a home warranty company with 15 years of experience in the industry, and it has become one of the best providers in the business. The 2 plans from HSC are comprehensive and offer a mix of both system and appliance coverage. HSC has established itself as a company with quick coverage where the home warranty goes into effect just ten days after you pay for the plan, instead of the typical 30 days. It also has customer service representatives available 24/7, as well as a 30-day labor guarantee and a 90-day parts guarantee.

There are 2 home warranty plans from The Home Service Club: Standard Coverage Plan and Comprehensive Coverage Plan. Service fees from HSC are customizable and range from $65 to $90. The coverage caps are also typically about $2,000 at the maximum.

To receive a free quote from The Home Service Club, fill out this online form or give them a call at 800-750-9443. Read our detailed review of The Home Service Club to learn more.

Standard Coverage Plan

Comprehensive Coverage Plan

Service fee: $60.00 - $95.00Monthly cost: $50.40
Items covered: Air conditioner , Ceiling fan , Dishwasher , Garbage disposal , Dryer , Electrical system , Food center , Free-standing ice maker , Garage door opener , Heating system , Microwave , Oven , Plumbing , Refrigerator , Trash compactor , Central vacuum , Washer , Water heater Add-on items: Utilities and home service line coverage (outside gas line, outside water line, outside sewer line, sprinkler system , Pool , Spa , Water softener , Roof leaks , Well pump , Pump , Stand-alone freezer
Service fee: $60.00 - $95.00Monthly cost: $62.90
Items covered: Air conditioner , Alarm wiring , Attic fans , Ceiling fan , Dishwasher , Garbage disposal , Doorbell , Dryer , Ductwork , Electrical system , Food center , Free-standing ice maker , Garage door opener , Heating system , Microwave , Oven , Pest control , Phone , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Refrigerator , Sump pump , Toilet , Trash compactor , Central vacuum , Washer , Water dispenser , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Utilities and home service line coverage (outside gas line, outside water line, outside sewer line, sprinkler system , Pool , Spa , Water softener , Roof leaks , Well pump , Pump , Stand-alone freezer
Today's Homeowner Ranking Methodology

Today's Homeowner looks at dozens of datapoints on home warranty companies to come up with our data-driven rankings. It's not possible for a company to pay for preferential treatment in our rankings. We look at the following key factors in determining who should top our list:

  • Company Experience
  • Real User Reviews
  • Company Reputation
  • Accreditations and Licenses
  • Service Area
  • Customer Service
Have questions about our methodology or company ratings? Reach out to FindAPro@TodaysHomeowner.com.

Cost of Common Home Repairs in Albany

Home ApplianceRepair Cost
Air Conditioner$7,603
Heating$5,069
Electrical$760
Toilets$634
Washer/Dryer$1,014
Plumbing$760
Oven$2,027
Fridge$760

How Does a Home Warranty Work?

A home warranty is a protection plan that helps Albany homeowners in reducing the costs of appliance and system repairs. The plans provide financial coverage to replace or repair appliances and systems that malfunction due to normal wear and tear. When something breaks down, you submit a claim and pay a service fee. The home warranty provider then finds a contractor to handle the replacement or repair. Homeowners may have out-of-pocket costs only if the cost of the repair or replacement exceeds the item's coverage limit. A home warranty gives homeowners reassurance by helping avoid expensive emergency repairs. The coverage is especially helpful for buyers of older houses or houses with fixtures near the end of their life span. However, people with newer homes and working appliances might not need a home warranty.

What Does a Home Warranty Cover?

Home warranties protect your home systems and appliances. Common covered appliances are garbage disposals, dryers, microwaves, refrigerators, washers, dishwashers, and more. Included systems are normally plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical. Many home warranty companies provide add-on coverage for septic systems, locksmiths, central vacuums, and roof leaks. It's important for Albany homeowners to know that most home warranty policies have a 30-day period you must wait before they will cover the cost of any repairs. Additionally, policies typically only cover repairs and replacements needed due to normal wear and tear. Home warranties don't cover things like pre-existing conditions, cosmetic issues, natural disasters, or misuse of a system or appliance. It's important to keep up with preventative maintenance to ensure that your next repair or replacement is covered by your policy.

Key Home Warranty Terms to Know

Before signing a home warranty contract, you should know key terms like:

  • Trade call fee: An additional fee that some companies charge for appliance-related claims.
  • Endorsements: Additional coverage for systems like well pumps, septic, and pools, which usually comes with a fee for each add-on.
  • Deductible: How much you pay for a covered repair before your warranty covers the rest. Deductibles can be per-claim or yearly.
  • Coverage limits: Dollar limits that cap how much the warranty will pay for certain repairs or replacements. Check limits on air conditioning units, appliances, roof leaks, and similar repairs.
  • Claim approval: The process by which your provider determines whether a requested repair or replacement is covered under your warranty.
  • Contract rate: The pre-negotiated rate a home warranty company has with its contractors. This rate is usually less than typical retail costs.
  • Service fee: The amount you pay our of pocket per claim for access to a contractor and repair coverage.
Keeping these important details in mind will help you understand a home warranty contract and select a plan that's tailored to protect your home. Make sure you discuss specifics of coverage with potential providers during the quote process to help avoid unexpected fees.

Key Factors in Choosing a Home Warranty Company

There are several key factors to consider when choosing a home warranty provider:

Coverage Options

Home warranties have significant variation in what they include. Basic plans typically include heating, plumbing, AC, electrical, and appliances, while more comprehensive options may also cover pools, roof leaks, well pumps, and spas. Look for companies with a diverse range of coverage options, including upgraded plans. This allows you to tailor protection to your home's needs.

Service Fees

With any home warranty claim, you'll pay a repair fee that typically ranges between $60 and $100, which gets paid per repair request filed. These per-claim charges can add up. You may decide to look for providers with more affordable fees to maximize your savings on each claim. Some providers also offer disappearing deductibles when customers go a period with no claims filed.

Reputation

A home warranty provider's reputation can give you insight into things such as approval rates, contractor quality, repair timeliness, and customer service. Use review platforms such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), or TrustPilot to research companies. Good ratings and feedback indicate a company known for exceptional service.

Contractor Network

Home warranty providers keep networks of technicians to handle covered repairs. Larger networks improve the probability of getting qualified technicians to service your home ASAP. Ask potential providers how many contractors they have in Albany to get a sense of how quickly your repairs could be handled in an emergency.

Added Benefits

Some home warranty companies include perks such as reduced maintenance fees, energy efficiency upgrades, and smart home device coverage. These can offer extra value beyond just repair coverage. Added bonuses allow you to enhance your home and get the most from your warranty policy.

Is a Home Warranty Worth it in Albany?


Benefits of a Home Warranty

Temperatures in Albany can get quite high in the summer, which means your air conditioner is most likely going to get a lot of use. As a homeowner in Albany, one benefit of having a home warranty is that these home systems and major appliances can be covered in the event they need to be repaired or replaced.

A home warranty also can also save you time and energy. Instead of spending hours finding and selecting a repair person to fix your appliance or system, home warranty companies do the hard work for you and send a trusted professional to your door whenever you need them. Another good thing about having a home warranty is if you want to sell your home, you can most likely transfer your home warranty policy to the new owners. This can make your house more attractive to potential homebuyers and may help your home sell faster.

Downsides of a Home Warranty

There are also some downsides to getting a home warranty plan, like the coverage exclusions. For example, home warranties may not cover systems or appliances that are already covered by a manufacturer's warranty.

Another potential pain point of home warranties is that they don’t cover items that have been improperly maintained. This can lead to your repair requests being rejected, so it’s important to carefully follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance of your home systems and appliances.

Our Recommended Providers

Advertisement This site receives compensation from some of the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. When you click "Get Quote," you will be connected with partners who may contact you with information related to your inquiry. This listing doesn't feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Top Pick
4.1/5
  • Comprehensive coverage
  • Decent coverage caps
  • No exclusions for older homes
Best For First Time Homeowners
4.2/5
  • The oldest and most trusted company in the industry
  • Allows customers to build their own plans
  • Ability to choose the service fee you want to pay
Best for Customization
4.5/5
  • Holds high ratings among customer service reviews
  • Covers repairs with a 60-day workmanship guarantee
  • Offers an extensive list of 30+ add-on coverages

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Albany, CA

A home warranty policy costs, on average, around $300 to $600 a year in Albany. Our high-rated home warranty companies' most comprehensive coverage options vary from $546 to $840 per year. You can get a lower monthly payment with some companies by choosing a higher service fee. In addition, it's often cheaper to pay annually rather than monthly.

Home warranties and home insurance differ in what types of damage they cover. Home warranty policies cover problems related to home systems and appliances that need repairs or replacements due to normal wear and tear. A home insurance policy is a different plan that protects your entire home from natural disasters, which might not be too much of a concern in Albany. It doesn't cover a typical appliance or system breakage.

Homebuyers, landlords, real estate agents, home sellers, and homeowners are all eligible for home warranty plans. A home warranty can help make your property more appealing to prospective buyers and save you money in the long run.

A home warranty plan will cover your appliances, systems, or both. Combination plans are great if you'd like more coverage for your home, but a system- or appliance-only plan can be a good idea if you want to save some money.

Generally, a home warranty policy lasts for a year and can be renewed annually. Some companies may offer month-to-month options.

Usually the one who owns the home is responsible for paying for the home warranty. In some cases, however, the one selling the home may buy a home warranty plan and transfer the policy to the buyer. The new homeowner will then be responsible for the service fees when using the policy. Since the average home value in Albany is $1,201,744, a home warranty can save you some money when buying a home.

Other Albany, CA Home Services