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6 Best Home Warranty Companies in Downey, CA

Written By David Cusick

Last Updated June 2024

With hot summers in Downey, your home systems can go through quite a bit of wear and tear. There’s nothing worse than having your air conditioning go out in the middle of summer. A home warranty policy can help protect homebuyers and current homeowners by lowering the costs of major repairs and replacements on your home’s most important systems and appliances.

Finding the best protection for your home can be challenging, so our team at Today's Homeowner has compiled this guide to help you find the best home warranty companies in Downey. Read on 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 Downey

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 offers the best overall home warranty for Downey residents. Choice has more than 15 years of experience in the home warranty industry, and has provided excellent customer service at an affordable cost to its customers. Choice offers very high coverage caps and simple-to-understand service contracts. Plus, it also has great customer service, professional contractors, and lower out-of-pocket costs compared to other home warranties. Choice has 2 simple plans, making the selection process and policy coverage easily comprehensible.

The 2 plans from Choice Home Warranty are Basic Plan and Total Plan. The coverage limits from Choice are about $3,000. The service fees are an affordable $85, which is cheaper than other providers in the Downey area.

Read more by visiting our full review of Choice Home Warranty. To get a free quote from Choice Home Warranty, fill out this online form or give them a call at 929-400-6164.

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 offers the most cost-effective home warranty for Downey residents. Select has more than 11 years of experience in the home warranty industry, and has provided excellent customer service at an affordable cost to its customers. Select offers a highly affordable service fee and free roof coverage upon purchase of a policy plan. Plus, it also has an extensive network of highly trained professionals all over the country who are experts in home maintenance. Select has 3 simple plans, making the selection process and policy coverage easily comprehensible.

The 3 plans from Select Home Warranty are Bronze Care Plan, Gold Care Plan, and Platinum Care Plan. The coverage limits from Select are about $2,000. The service fees are a reasonable $60, which is cheaper than other providers in the Downey area.

Read more by visiting our full review of Select Home Warranty. To get a free quote from Select Home Warranty, fill out this online form or give them a call at 888-370-3953.

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 offers the most customizable home warranty for Downey residents. AHS has more than 26 years of experience in the home warranty industry, and has provided excellent customer service at an affordable cost to its customers. AHS offers the ability to customize your plan with the coverages that work specifically for your home. Plus, it also has a remarkably low claim denial rate in comparison to other home warranty companies. AHS has 3 simple plans, making the selection process and policy coverage easily comprehensible.

The 3 plans from American Home Shield are ShieldSilver, ShieldGold, and ShieldPlatinum. The coverage limits from AHS are about $2,500. The service fees are customizable and range from $75 to $125, which is cheaper than other providers in the Downey area.

Read more by visiting our full review of American Home Shield. To get a free quote from American Home Shield, fill out this online form or give them a call at 888-365-2839.

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 offers the best home warranty for appliance coverage for Downey residents. First American has more than 39 years of experience in the home warranty industry, and has provided excellent customer service at an affordable cost to its customers. First American offers very affordable and comprehensive appliance coverage. Plus, 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. First American has 2 simple plans, making the selection process and policy coverage easily comprehensible.

The 2 plans from First American Home Warranty are Basic Plan and Premier Plan. The coverage limits from First American are about $1,500. The service fees are a reasonable $85, which is cheaper than other providers in the Downey area.

Read more by visiting our full review of First American Home Warranty. To get a free quote from First American Home Warranty, fill out this online form or give them a call at 833-204-7164.

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 offers the home warranty with the best workmanship guarantee for Downey residents. Cinch has more than 44 years of experience in the home warranty industry, and has provided excellent customer service at an affordable cost to its customers. Cinch offers a 180-day workmanship guarantee that ensures your home systems and appliance repairs will be professionally done. Plus, it also has a broad range of coverage options that will give homeowners peace of mind. Cinch has 3 simple plans, making the selection process and policy coverage easily comprehensible.

The 3 plans from Cinch Home Services are Appliances Plan, Built-in Systems Plan, and Complete Home Plan. The coverage limits from Cinch are about $1,000-$2,000. The service fees are customizable and range from $75 to $150, which is cheaper than other providers in the Downey area.

Read more by visiting our full review of Cinch Home Services. To get a free quote from Cinch Home Services, fill out this online form or give them a call at 877-589-0505.

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 offers the best home warranty with the quickest service for Downey residents. HSC has more than 15 years of experience in the home warranty industry, and has provided excellent customer service at an affordable cost to its customers. HSC offers quick coverage where the home warranty goes into effect just ten days after you pay for the plan, instead of the typical 30 days. Plus, it also has customer service representatives available 24/7, as well as a 30-day labor guarantee and a 90-day parts guarantee. HSC has 2 simple plans, making the selection process and policy coverage easily comprehensible.

The 2 plans from The Home Service Club are Standard Coverage Plan and Comprehensive Coverage Plan. The coverage limits from HSC are about $2,000. The service fees are customizable and range from $65 to $90, which is cheaper than other providers in the Downey area.

Read more by visiting our full review of The Home Service Club. To get a free quote from The Home Service Club, fill out this online form or give them a call at 800-750-9443.

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 Downey

Home ApplianceRepair Cost
Air Conditioner$6,932
Heating$4,621
Electrical$693
Toilets$578
Washer/Dryer$924
Plumbing$693
Oven$1,849
Fridge$693

How Does a Home Warranty Work?

A home warranty is a protection policy that assists Downey homeowners cut the high costs of household repairs. These plans provide financial protection to fix or swap out appliances and systems that stop working from normal wear and tear. Homeowners file a claim and pay a service fee when something breaks. The home warranty provider then arranges a contractor to make the repair or replacement. The only time you may pay out-of-pocket is if the repair or replacement costs exceed the item's coverage limit. A home warranty plan gives homeowners peace of mind because it can help avoid expensive emergency repairs. They can be especially helpful for buyers of older homes or homes with appliances near the end of their life span. However, newer homes with modern appliances and fixtures may not need a home warranty.

What Does a Home Warranty Cover?

Home warranties protect your household systems and appliances. Common covered appliances are refrigerators, dryers, dishwashers, garbage disposals, microwaves, washers, and more. Protected systems include electrical, heating, air conditioning, and plumbing. Many home warranty plans offer additional coverage for septic systems, central vacuums, roof leaks, and even locksmiths. Downey homeowners should know that most home warranty plans begin with a 30-day waiting period before repairs are covered. What's more, most policies only help pay for repairs and replacements due to normal wear and tear. Home warranties don't include natural disasters, pre-existing conditions, cosmetic issues, or misusing a system or appliance. Make sure to keep up with preventative maintenance to help ensure your next repair or replacement is covered.

Key Home Warranty Terms to Know

There are several home warranty terms to know before signing an agreement, including:

  • Service fee: The amount you pay our of pocket per claim for access to a contractor and repair coverage.
  • Deductible: The amount you're responsible for before your warranty covers the remainder of the cost. Deductibles apply to covered repairs and may be on a per-claim or yearly basis.
  • Contract rate: The pre-negotiated rate a home warranty company has with its contractors. This rate is usually less than typical retail costs.
  • Trade call fee: An added fee that you'll sometimes need to pay for appliance-related claims.
  • Endorsements: Optional add-on coverage for systems such as well pumps, pools, septic and more. Endorsements typically come with an additional fee.
  • Coverage limits: Dollar limits that cap how much the warranty will pay for certain repairs or replacements. Check limits on roof leaks, air conditioning units, appliances, and similar repairs.
  • Claim approval: The process providers use to determine whether a requested repair or replacement is covered under a home warranty plan.
With these terms and key factors in mind, you'll be able to better understand pricing and choose a home warranty customized to protecting your most essential home systems. During the quoting process, review coverage details with potential companies, so you don't encounter any unexpected fees.

Key Factors in Choosing a Home Warranty Company

When you're deciding on a home warranty provider, there are several key things to take into account:

Coverage Options

Home warranty coverage varies widely in the items that are included. Most plans provide coverage for AC, electrical, heating, plumbing, and appliances. More comprehensive plans also offer coverage on other items such as roof leaks, well pumps, spas, and pools. Look for a provider that offers an extensive selection of coverage options, including upgraded plans. You want the flexibility to customize coverage to fit your home's specific needs.

Service Fees

With any home warranty claim, you'll pay a repair fee that typically ranges between $60 and $100, which is paid per repair request filed. These per-claim charges can add up. You may decide to look for companies with more affordable fees to maximize your savings on each claim. Some providers also offer disappearing deductibles for customers who don't file any claims over a certain timespan.

Reputation

A home warranty provider's reputation can offer insight into things such as contractor quality, approval rates for claims, speed of repairs, and customer satisfaction. Look at third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), TrustPilot, or Google Reviews to research companies. Good ratings and reviews indicate that a company is known for top-tier service.

Contractor Network

Home warranty providers have networks of professionals to handle covered repairs. Wider networks raise the probability of getting qualified technicians to promptly service your home. Contact potential providers to find out how many contractors they have in Downey to get a sense of how quickly your repairs could happen in an emergency.

Added Benefits

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

Is a Home Warranty Worth it in Downey?


Benefits of a Home Warranty

Downey’s hot summers can put a strain on a home’s HVAC system. Whether it’s summer or winter, a home warranty will cover your home’s appliances and systems in the event they need to be repaired or replaced. For example, if your air conditioner fails in the middle of July, a home warranty can cover the needed repairs, saving you from spending a lot of money out of pocket.

A home warranty also can also save you time and energy. Instead of spending hours researching and choosing a technician 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. Plus, though home warranty companies vary, some providers will let you transfer your warranty in the event that you sell your home. This can make your home more attractive to potential homebuyers and help your home sell faster.

Downsides of a Home Warranty

As for the drawbacks of home warranties, coverage varies by company, so it’s important to read what each policy covers and excludes in the contract.

Another thing to take into consideration is that some providers don’t cover pre-existing damage and may require an inspection before your coverage can begin. Ask the home warranty provider for clarification about it if you aren’t sure or if this is a problem for you.

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 Downey, CA

A home warranty costs, on average, around $300 to $600 a year in Downey. Our high-rated home warranty providers' most comprehensive coverage options vary from $546 to $840 per year. You can get a lower monthly payment with some companies by opting for a higher service fee. In addition, it's usually 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 with home systems and appliances that need repairs or replacements due to normal wear and tear. A home insurance policy is a different kind of insurance that protects your entire home from natural disasters, which can sometimes be a concern in Downey. It doesn't cover a typical appliance or system repairs.

A home warranty plan can help real estate agents, home sellers, homebuyers, homeowners, and investors. It can provide peace of mind to anyone involved in homeownership.

A home warranty plan can cover your home’s systems, appliances, or both. Combination plans are beneficial if you'd like more coverage for your home, but a system- or appliance-only plan can be helpful if you're concerned about one more than the other.

Home warranty plans generally last a year. Many providers let you renew your plan annually, and some offer month-to-month plans as well.

Typically, the homeowner is the one who pays the premium and service fees. However, when buying a new home, sometimes the seller is the one who paid for the policy. This can then be given to the new homeowner, who will pay the service fees when using the policy. In Downey, where the median home value is $801,384, having the seller pay for the home warranty can be a good asset for your new home.

Other Downey, CA Home Services