Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Written By David Cusick
Last Updated April 2024
The cost of maintaining a home in Thousand Oaks can be costly, especially as your home ages and your appliances and systems have to be updated. A home warranty can give you the peace of mind you need and guard your savings account from large expenses by covering your home’s major systems and appliances.
The home warranty market is filled with many providers — all with different coverage — so our team at Today's Homeowner has compiled this guide to help you choose the best home warranty companies in Thousand Oaks.
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 Thousand Oaks residents. Choice has around 15 years of experience in the industry and in that time has built a an network of service technicians in the country. When you purchase a home warranty from Choice, you will get very high coverage caps and simple-to-understand service contracts. Choice Home Warranty also has great customer service, professional contractors, and lower out-of-pocket costs compared to other home warranties. The 2 plans from Choice are easily comprehensible and have a mix of both system and appliance coverage.
Choice Home Warranty has 2 plans that offer a combination of system and appliance coverage. Service fees from Choice are an affordable $85. The coverage caps are also typically around $3,000 at the maximum.
For more information, read our Choice Home Warranty Review. To receive a free quote from Choice Home Warranty, you can fill out this online form or call 929-400-6164.
Basic Plan
Total Plan
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 Thousand Oaks residents. Select has around 11 years of experience in the industry and in that time has built a an network of service technicians in the country. When you purchase a home warranty from Select, you will get a highly affordable service fee and free roof coverage upon purchase of a policy plan. Select Home Warranty also has an extensive network of highly trained professionals all over the country who are experts in home maintenance. The 3 plans from Select are easily comprehensible and have a mix of both system and appliance coverage.
Select Home Warranty has 3 plans that offer a combination of system and appliance coverage. Service fees from Select are a reasonable $60. The coverage caps are also typically around $2,000 at the maximum.
For more information, read our Select Home Warranty Review. To receive a free quote from Select Home Warranty, you can fill out this online form or call 888-370-3953.
Bronze Care Plan
Gold Care Plan
Platinum Care Plan
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 Thousand Oaks residents. AHS has around 26 years of experience in the industry and in that time has built a an network of service technicians in the country. When you purchase a home warranty from AHS, you will get the ability to customize your plan with the coverages that work specifically for your home. American Home Shield also has a remarkably low claim denial rate in comparison to other home warranty companies. The 3 plans from AHS are easily comprehensible and have a mix of both system and appliance coverage.
American Home Shield has 3 plans that offer a combination of system and appliance coverage. Service fees from AHS are customizable and range from $75 to $125. The coverage caps are also typically around $2,500 at the maximum.
For more information, read our American Home Shield Review. To receive a free quote from American Home Shield, you can fill out this online form or call 888-365-2839.
ShieldSilver
ShieldGold
ShieldPlatinum
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 Thousand Oaks residents. First American has around 39 years of experience in the industry and in that time has built a an network of service technicians in the country. When you purchase a home warranty from First American, you will get very affordable and comprehensive appliance coverage. First American Home Warranty 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. The 2 plans from First American are easily comprehensible and have a mix of both system and appliance coverage.
First American Home Warranty has 2 plans that offer a combination of system and appliance coverage. Service fees from First American are a reasonable $85. The coverage caps are also typically around $1,500 at the maximum.
For more information, read our First American Home Warranty Review. To receive a free quote from First American Home Warranty, you can fill out this online form or call 833-204-7164.
Basic Plan
Premier Plan
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 Thousand Oaks residents. Cinch has around 44 years of experience in the industry and in that time has built a an network of service technicians in the country. When you purchase a home warranty from Cinch, you will get a 180-day workmanship guarantee that ensures your home systems and appliance repairs will be professionally done. Cinch Home Services also has a broad range of coverage options that will give homeowners peace of mind. The 3 plans from Cinch are easily comprehensible and have a mix of both system and appliance coverage.
Cinch Home Services has 3 plans that offer a combination of system and appliance coverage. Service fees from Cinch are customizable and range from $75 to $150. The coverage caps are also typically around $1,000-$2,000 at the maximum.
For more information, read our Cinch Home Services Review. To receive a free quote from Cinch Home Services, you can fill out this online form or call 877-589-0505.
Appliances Plan
Built-in Systems Plan
Complete Home Plan
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 Thousand Oaks residents. HSC has around 15 years of experience in the industry and in that time has built a an network of service technicians in the country. When you purchase a home warranty from HSC, you will get quick coverage where the home warranty goes into effect just ten days after you pay for the plan, instead of the typical 30 days. The Home Service Club also has customer service representatives available 24/7, as well as a 30-day labor guarantee and a 90-day parts guarantee. The 2 plans from HSC are easily comprehensible and have a mix of both system and appliance coverage.
The Home Service Club has 2 plans that offer a combination of system and appliance coverage. Service fees from HSC are customizable and range from $65 to $90. The coverage caps are also typically around $2,000 at the maximum.
For more information, read our The Home Service Club Review. To receive a free quote from The Home Service Club, you can fill out this online form or call 800-750-9443.
Standard Coverage Plan
Comprehensive Coverage Plan
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:
| Home Appliance | Repair Cost |
|---|---|
| Air Conditioner | $7,652 |
| Heating | $5,101 |
| Electrical | $765 |
| Toilets | $638 |
| Washer/Dryer | $1,020 |
| Plumbing | $765 |
| Oven | $2,040 |
| Fridge | $765 |
A home warranty is a protection policy that assists Thousand Oaks homeowners lower the high costs of household repairs. These plans provide financial coverage to fix or replace appliances and systems that break down from normal wear and tear.
Homeowners submit 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 cost of the repair or replacement exceeds the item's coverage limit. A home warranty gives homeowners peace of mind, as it helps avoid high-priced emergency repairs. The coverage is particularly helpful for buyers of older houses or houses with systems near the end of their life span. However, homeowners with newer homes and functioning appliances might not need a home warranty.
Home warranties safeguard your home systems and appliances. Common appliances covered under a home warranty include refrigerators, dryers, washers, dishwashers, garbage disposals, microwaves, and others. Covered systems include heating, air conditioning, plumbing, and electrical. Many home warranties offer additional add-on coverage options for locksmiths, septic systems, central vacuums, and even roof leaks. It's important for Thousand Oaks homeowners to understand most home warranty plans have a 30-day waiting period before repair claims will be approved. The majority of policies also only cover repairs and replacements resulting from normal wear and tear. Home warranties don't include cosmetic issues, natural disasters, pre-existing conditions, or misusing a system or appliance. Stay current with preventative maintenance to help guarantee your next repair or replacement is covered.
Here are some essential home warranty terms to learn before signing a contract:
There are several important factors to consider when choosing a home warranty provider:
Home warranties vary widely in terms of included coverage. Basic plans typically cover AC, plumbing, electrical, heating, and appliances, while more comprehensive plans may also cover roof leaks, pools, well pumps, and spas. Look for providers with an assortment of coverage options, such as upgraded plans. You'll want to tailor your protection for your home’s needs.
Homeowners should anticipate paying a $60–100 service fee when filing home warranty claims. These per-repair charges can potentially accumulate over time, so some homeowners prefer using companies with lower service fees to maximize savings. Some providers also offer disappearing deductibles when a homeowner goes a defined period without any repair requests.
A home warranty provider's reputation can provide insight into things such as contractor quality, repair timeliness, approval rates, and customer service. Use review platforms such as Google Reviews, TrustPilot, or the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to research companies. Good ratings and feedback indicate a provider known for exceptional service.
Home warranty providers maintain networks of local contractors to handle repairs in your area. Reach out to potential providers to learn how many repair professionals they have in Thousand Oaks and get an idea for how fast your repairs might happen in an emergency situation. Bigger networks raise the likelihood of getting qualified contractors to swiftly service your home.
Some home warranty providers may include perks such as energy efficiency upgrades, reduced maintenance fees, and smart home device coverage. These can provide extra value beyond just repair coverage. Extra bonuses let you enhance your home and get the most from your warranty policy.
Thousand Oaks’s hot summers can put a strain on a home’s HVAC system. Whether it’s summer or winter, a home warranty is designed to 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 repairs, saving you from spending unexpected money out of pocket.
Not only can a home warranty save you some money on repairs and replacements, it saves you time as well. Instead of vetting contractors yourself, home warranty providers do the work for you and send pre-screened technicians right to your door when you need them. In addition, though it varies by company, some providers will allow you to transfer your warranty in the event that you sell your home. This can make your home more attractive to potential homebuyers and maybe even help your home sell faster.
There are also some negatives to purchasing a home warranty plan, like the coverage exclusions. For example, home warranties may not cover home systems or appliances that already have a manufacturer's warranty.
Another possible pain point of home warranties is that they don’t cover items that have been improperly maintained. This can lead to your claims being denied, so it’s important to carefully follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance of your home systems and appliances.
A home warranty costs, on average, about $300 to $600 a year in Thousand Oaks. Our high-rated home warranty providers' most comprehensive coverage options vary from $546 to $840 per year. You can lower your monthly bill with some companies by opting for a higher service fee. In addition, it's typically cheaper to pay annually rather than monthly.
Home warranties and home insurance differ in what kinds of damage they cover. Home warranty plans cover problems with home systems and appliances that need to be repaired or replaced due to normal wear and tear. A home insurance policy is a larger plan that protects an entire home from natural disasters, which might not be too much of a concern in Thousand Oaks. It doesn't cover a typical appliance or system breakage.
A home warranty plan can help investors, homeowners, home sellers, real estate agents, and homebuyers. It can offer peace of mind to anyone involved with homeownership.
The different types of home warranties in Thousand Oaks include plans that cover either appliances or systems as well as comprehensive plans. A comprehensive plan will cover almost all your home systems and appliances, including your refrigerator, washing machine, and HVAC. A plan that only covers appliances or systems will cover only the specific items mentioned in the policy.
Generally, a home warranty offers coverage for a year and can be renewed yearly. Some companies may offer month-to-month options.
Usually the person who owns the home pays for the home warranty. In some cases, though, the one selling the home may buy a home warranty 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 Thousand Oaks is $994,477, a home warranty can be an added asset when buying a home.
