When it comes to home warranties, American Home Shield stands out as one of the top companies in the industry. However, it's important to recognize that it's not the only option available. For those exploring the top 3 home warranty companies as alternatives to American Home Shield, there are several reputable providers worth considering.
Among the best American Home Shield alternatives are Choice Home Warranty, First American Home Warranty, and Select Home Warranty. These companies are recognized as the top 3 home warranty companies, offering comprehensive services that cater to a variety of homeowner needs. By comparing these options, you'll be better equipped to decide which home warranty company aligns best with your requirements.
The Best Alternatives to American Home Shield at a Glance
- Choice Home Warranty - Best for discounts
- First American Home Warranty - Best for appliances
- Select Home Warranty - Best for older homes
» Want a few more choices? Check out our top picks for the best home warranty companies.
Our Top Picks for the Best Alternatives to American Home Shield
1. Choice Home Warranty
A budget-friendly home warranty company with two comprehensive plans
Best for: Discounted home warranty plans
Starting price: From $46.67 per month or $476 per year
Choice Home Warranty is one of the leading home warranty companies in the United States. Its rates are slightly cheaper than American Home Shield. Throw in the fact that it gives new customers their first month free, and it’s an obvious choice if you’re looking for comprehensive coverage on a budget.
Choice Home Warranty has a nationwide network of over 25,000 contractors and two plan options. While this may not be as many options as its competitors, both plans provide full coverage with the option to customize your policy with several add-ons, including those for pools, roof leaks, and well pumps.
Choice Home Warranty’s affordability and customization options also make it a great choice if you need a home warranty for rental property. It can be an ideal way to protect your investment and minimize any unexpected repair bills that could pop up.
» Interested in renting your house? Here are a few tips for first-time renters.
Pros
- Two affordable plan options
- Get your first month free
- 24/7 claims support
- Add-on coverage available
Cons
- Not available in California or Washington
- Coverage limits apply
2. First American Home Warranty
A reliable home warranty company with thoroughly vetted contractors
Best for: Comprehensive appliance coverage
Starting price: From $34 per month or $372 per year (depending on your state)
First American Home Warranty stands out for one reason: it promises to cover appliances, regardless of age. This is something American Home Shield (and most other home warranty companies) don’t do. Considering the fact that the average homeowner spends $4,254 or more on appliances within their first year of owning a home, it's easy to see how quickly repairs or replacements can add up.
First American Home Warranty also has higher payout caps than the competition, making it a win-win for homeowners looking for comprehensive appliance coverage. In addition, it has a reputation for being one of the most reliable home warranty companies on the market.
You get access to a nationwide network of prescreened contractors and technicians—one of many reasons to get a home warranty. Having access to this network is worth the minimal price tag in and of itself. Plus, their customer service is available 24/7 to help you with any questions or concerns.
» More: Read about the lifespan of common appliances.
Pros
- Established company with a good reputation
- Nationwide network of prescreened contractors and technicians
- Add-on coverage available
Cons
- Only two plans to choose from
- No mobile app
3. Select Home Warranty
A home warranty company with free roof leak coverage
Best for: Older homes
Starting price: From $38 per month or $404.99 per year
Select Home Warranty is a newer company, but they're already making waves in the home warranty industry. In fact, it has some of the best home warranty plans on the market.
No matter which plan you choose, you get free roof leak coverage. This is typically an add-on or premium service for other home warranty companies, which is why Select Home Warranty stands out as the best company for older homes that are more prone to these leaks. The average roof leak can waste over 10,000 gallons of water a year.
In addition to free roof leak coverage, Select Home Warranty also has a simple online claims process that makes it easy to get your repairs or replacements started—no hassle, no fuss. Plus, you may also qualify for up to $150 or two months of free coverage if you pay your premiums annually instead of monthly.
» Not sure how to handle damage from leaks and flooding? Here are a few tips for dealing with water damage.
Pros
- Three standard plans to choose from
- Add-on coverage available
- Competitive pricing
Cons
- Not available in Nevada, New York, Washington, or Wisconsin
- Coverage limits lower than average
Why Choose These Alternatives Over American Home Shield?
There’s no denying that American Home Shield is a popular home warranty company in the US, but there are several reasons why you may want to choose an alternative.
For Better Customer Reviews
First and foremost, all three of the abovementioned companies have better customer reviews on Trustpilot than American Home Shield. For example, here is each company’s rating at the time of publishing:
- American Home Shield: 1.8
- Choice Home Warranty: 3.8
- First American Home Warranty: 3.7
- Select Home Warranty: 3.6
For a Better Quality-to-Price Ratio
All three companies, including American Home Shield, offer comprehensive home warranty coverage. But for the price tag, Choice Home Warranty, First American Home Warranty, and Select Home Warranty offer a better quality-to-price ratio.
If you're looking for the most budget-friendly home warranty, First American Home Warranty is the way to go at $34 per month or $372 per year. Select Home Warranty is a close second at $38 per month or $404.99 per year.
» Don't see the need for a home warranty? Here are a few reasons why home warranties are worth it.
For an Easier Claims Process
Finally, another reason to choose one of these companies is that they have a more straightforward claims process. For example, American Home Shield has no repair time frame guarantee, so you could wait days, weeks, or months to get your applications and systems fixed. All of the other companies have labor guarantees, so you can go back to enjoying your home as quickly as possible.
Bottom Line: The Best Alternatives to American Home Shield
When it comes to finding an American Home Shield alternative, there are a lot of great options out there. Some of our favorites include Choice Home Warranty, First American Home Warranty, and Select Home Warranty.
If you're still not sure which company is right for you, shop around for the best home warranties for homeowners and compare quotes before making your decision.
» Check out our top picks for the best home warranties and plans for HVAC to cover your most important major appliance.
