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Best 6 Home Warranty Companies in Chicago, IL

  1. Home
  2. Local Pros
  3. Home Warranty
  4. IL
  5. Chicago
Written By Jessica Hurtault | Last Updated: February 05, 2024

If you're a homeowner in Illinois, you know the importance of reliable heating and cooling. From hot, humid summer days to windy winter nights, a working HVAC system is essential. But when an appliance or system fails, repairs can be expensive.

That's where a home warranty can help. Home warranties can cover major appliances and systems, protecting your bank account from unexpected expenses. Luckily, we've compiled a list of the best home warranty companies in Chicago, Illinois.

Best Customer Ratings
4.5
  • Holds high ratings among customer service reviews
  • Covers repairs with a 60-day workmanship guarantee
  • Offers an extensive list of 30+ add-on coverages
Best for Comprehensive Coverage
4.4
  • Offers generous coverage caps
  • Allows customers to build their own plans
  • Provides the option to choose the service fee you want to pay
Best Value
4.3
  • Provides low service fees compared to other home warranty providers
  • Includes two extra months of coverage in annual signup
  • Has an appliance-only, systems-only, and combo plan option

6 Best Home Warranty Companies in Chicago

Best for Comprehensive Coverage

American Home Shield

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4.4/5

Pros

  • Offers generous coverage caps
  • Allows customers to build their own plans
  • Provides the option to choose the service fee you want to pay

Cons

  • Doesn’t let customers choose their own technician
  • Offers limited add-on options
Plan Name ShieldSilver
Monthly Cost $29.99 – $39.99
Service Fee $100.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Air Conditioner, Alarm, Attic fans, Bath exhaust fans, Ceiling fans, Cooktop exhaust, Doorbell, Ductwork, Electrical, Faucets and Valves, Garage door, Heating system, Main breaker fuse box, Plumbing, Plumbing stoppages, Rekey services, Toilet, Water dispenser, Water heater

Add-on Items

Electronics, Guest Unit, Pool, Roof-leak, Spa, Septic pump, Well pump

Plan Name ShieldGold
Monthly Cost $49.99 – $59.99
Service Fee $100.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Air Conditioner, Alarm, Attic fans, Bath exhaust fans, Built-in microwave, Ceiling fans, Cooktop, Cooktop exhaust, Dishwasher, Doorbell, Ductwork, Electrical, Faucets and Valves, Garbage disposal, Garage door, Heating system, Instant hot and cold water dispenser, Main breaker fuse box, Plumbing, Plumbing stoppages, Refrigerator, Rekey services, Range, Toilet, Water dispenser, Water heater

Add-on Items

Electronics, Guest Unit, Pool, Roof-leak, Spa, Septic pump, Well pump

Plan Name ShieldPlatinum
Monthly Cost $79.99 – $89.99
Service Fee $100.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Air Conditioner, Alarm, Attic fans, Bath exhaust fans, Built-in microwave, Ceiling fans, Cooktop, Cooktop exhaust, Dishwasher, Doorbell, Ductwork, Electrical, Faucets and Valves, Garbage disposal, Garage door, Heating system, Instant hot and cold water dispenser, Main breaker fuse box, Plumbing, Plumbing stoppages, Range, Refrigerator, Rekey services, Roof-leak, Toilet, Water dispenser, Water heater

Add-on Items

Electronics, Guest Unit, Pool, Spa, Septic pump, Well pump

52 Years in Business BBB Rating: B
Best Customer Ratings

Liberty Home Guard

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4.5/5

Pros

  • Holds high ratings among customer service reviews
  • Covers repairs with a 60-day workmanship guarantee
  • Offers an extensive list of 30+ add-on coverages

Cons

  • Lacks transparency on service call fee pricing
  • Excludes coverage for known or unknown pre-existing conditions
Plan Name Appliance Guard
Monthly Cost $49.99
Service Fee $65.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Ceiling fan, Cooktop, Cooktop exhaust fan, Disposal, Dishwasher, Dryer, Garage door, Microwave, Oven, Range, Refrigerator, Washer

Add-on Items

Additional spa, Carpet cleaning, Casita guest unit, Central vacuum, Ejector pump, Electronics protection, Freestanding ice maker, Generator, Grinder pump, Gutter cleaning, In-fridge ice maker, Instant hot water dispenser, Lawn sprinkler system, Lighting fixtures, Limited roof-leak, Pest control, Plumbing fixtures, Pool and spa, Pro-series clothes dryer, Pro-series dishwasher coverage, Pro-series microwave, Pro-series range/oven/cooktop coverage, Pro-series refrigerator coverage, Pro-series washing machines, Re-key services, Reverse osmosis water filter system, Saltwater pool, Second refrigerator, Septic system pumping, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Swamp cooler, Trash compactor, Water dispenser water line, Water softener, Well pump, Window washing/cleaning, Wine cooler/fridge

Plan Name Systems Guard
Monthly Cost $54.99
Service Fee $65.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Air conditioner, Ductwork, Electrical, Heating system, Plumbing, Plumbing stoppages, Toilet, Water heater

Add-on Items

Additional spa, Carpet cleaning, Casita guest unit, Central vacuum, Ejector pump, Electronics protection, Freestanding ice maker, Generator, Grinder pump, Gutter cleaning, In-fridge ice maker, Instant hot water dispenser, Lawn sprinkler system, Lighting fixtures, Limited roof-leak, Pest control, Plumbing fixtures, Pool and spa, Pro-series clothes dryer, Pro-series dishwasher coverage, Pro-series microwave, Pro-series range/oven/cooktop coverage, Pro-series refrigerator coverage, Pro-series washing machines, Re-key services, Reverse osmosis water filter system, Saltwater pool, Second refrigerator, Septic system pumping, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Swamp cooler, Trash compactor, Water dispenser water line, Water softener, Well pump, Window washing/cleaning, Wine cooler/fridge

Plan Name Total Home Guard
Monthly Cost $59.99
Service Fee $65.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Air conditioner, Ceiling fan, Cooktop, Cooktop exhaust fan, Disposal, Dishwasher, Dryer, Ductwork, Electrical, Garage door, Heating system, Microwave, Oven, Plumbing, Plumbing stoppages, Refrigerator, Refrigerator ice maker, Toilet, Washer, Water heater

Add-on Items

Additional spa, Carpet cleaning, Casita guest unit, Central vacuum, Ejector pump, Electronics protection, Freestanding ice maker, Generator, Grinder pump, Gutter cleaning, In-fridge ice maker, Instant hot water dispenser, Lawn sprinkler system, Lighting fixtures, Limited roof-leak, Pest control, Plumbing fixtures, Pool and spa, Pro-series clothes dryer, Pro-series dishwasher coverage, Pro-series microwave, Pro-series range/oven/cooktop coverage, Pro-series refrigerator coverage, Pro-series washing machines, Re-key services, Reverse osmosis water filter system, Saltwater pool, Second refrigerator, Septic system pumping, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Swamp cooler, Trash compactor, Water dispenser water line, Water softener, Well pump, Window washing/cleaning, Wine cooler/fridge

6 Years in Business BBB Rating: A+
Best Value

Select Home Warranty

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4.3/5

Pros

  • Provides low service fees compared to other home warranty providers
  • Includes two extra months of coverage in annual signup
  • Has an appliance-only, systems-only, and combo plan option

Cons

  • Has a $75 cancellation fee
  • Low coverage caps
Plan Name Bronze Care Plan
Monthly Cost $44.42
Service Fee $75.00
Items Covered

Cooktop, Disposal, Dishwasher, Dryer, Microwave, Oven, Refrigerator, Stove, Washer

Add-on Items

Central Vacuum, Pool, Roof leaks, Septic system, Spa, Sprinkler, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Well pump

Plan Name Gold Care Plan
Monthly Cost $44.42
Service Fee $75.00
Items Covered

Air Conditioner, Ductwork, Electrical, Heating system, Plumbing, Water heater

Add-on Items

Central Vacuum, Pool, Roof leaks, Septic system, Spa, Sprinkler, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Well pump

Plan Name Platinum Care Plan
Monthly Cost $47.75
Service Fee $75.00
Items Covered

Air conditioner, Cooktop, Disposal, Dishwasher, Dryer, Ductwork, Electrical, Heating system, Microwave, Oven, Plumbing, Plumbing stoppages, Refrigerator, Stove, Washer, Water heater

Add-on Items

Central Vacuum, Pool, Roof leaks, Septic system, Spa, Sprinkler, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Well pump

11 Years in Business BBB Rating: B-
Best for Customization

AFC Home Warranty

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4.6/5

Pros

  • Provides an unlimited workmanship guarantee
  • Offers generous appliance coverage limits
  • Allows you to choose your own contractor

Cons

  • Limits coverage limits for older items based on depreciated value
  • Requires you to file a claim immediately after discovering an issue
Plan Name Silver Plan
Monthly Cost $42.17 – $47.00
Service Fee $75.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Garbage disposal, Garage door opener, Kitchen refrigerator, Oven, Range, Stove

Add-on Items

Built-in microwave, Central vacuum, Double oven, Electonics coverage, Hot water dispenser, Ice maker, In-ground pool, In-ground pool and spa, Roof-leak, Septic system, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Well pump

Plan Name Systems Plan
Monthly Cost $49.42 – $54.25
Service Fee $75.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Air conditioning, Electrical, Heating system, Plumbing, Water heater

Add-on Items

Built-in microwave, Central vacuum, Double oven, Electonics coverage, Hot water dispenser, Ice maker, In-ground pool, In-ground pool and spa, Roof-leak, Septic system, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Well pump

Plan Name Gold Plan
Monthly Cost $56.67 – $61.05
Service Fee $75.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Air conditioner, Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Ductwork, Electrical, Garbage disposal, Garage door opener, Heating system, Kitchen refrigerator, Oven, Plumbing, Range, Stove, Water heater

Add-on Items

Built-in microwave, Central vacuum, Double oven, Electonics coverage, Hot water dispenser, Ice maker, In-ground pool, In-ground pool and spa, Roof-leak, Septic system, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Well pump

Plan Name Platinum Plan
Monthly Cost $61.05 – $66.33
Service Fee $75.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Air conditioner, Attic fan, Built-in microwave, Ceiling fan, Clothes dryer, Clothes washer, Cooktop, Dishwasher, Ductwork, Electrical, Exhaust fan, Faucets, Garbage disposal, Garage door opener, Heating system, Ice maker, Kitchen refrigerator, Oven, Plumbing, Plumbing stoppages, Range, Stove, Water heater

Add-on Items

Central vacuum, Double oven, Electonics coverage, Hot water dispenser, In-ground pool, In-ground pool and spa, Roof-leak, Septic system, Stand-alone freezer, Sump pump, Well pump

14 Years in Business BBB Rating: B
Best Additional Perks

Cinch Home Services

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4.6/5

Pros

  • Offers home insurance deductible of $500
  • Extends a long 180-day workmanship guarantee
  • Provides generous $10,000 aggregate coverage limit

Cons

  • Charges high service fees of $75-$150
  • Doesn’t allow customers to choose their own technician
  • Isn’t available in hawaii or alaska
Plan Name Appliances Plan
Monthly Cost $38.99 – $48.99
Service Fee $100.00 - $150.00
Items Covered

Cooktop, Dishwasher, Dryer, Food center, Free-standing ice maker, Microwave, Oven, Range, Range exhaust hood, Refrigerator, Trash compactor, Washer

Add-on Items

Pool, Premier Upgrade Package, Septic, Spa, Well pump

Plan Name Built-in Systems Plan
Monthly Cost $43.99 – $55.99
Service Fee $100.00 - $150.00
Items Covered

Air conditioner, Attic fans, Ceiling fans, Central Vacuum, Disposal, Doorbell, Ductwork, Electrical, Garage door, Garbage Disposal, Heating system, Instant hot and cold water dispensers, Plumbing, Plumbing stoppages, Smoke alarm, Sump pump, Toilet, Water heater, Whirlpool/jetted tubs

Add-on Items

Pool, Premier Upgrade Package, Septic, Spa, Well pump

Plan Name Complete Home Plan
Monthly Cost $54.99 – $66.99
Service Fee $100.00 - $150.00
Items Covered

Air conditioner, Attic fans, Cooktop, Ceiling fans, Central Vacuum, Disposal, Dishwasher, Doorbell, Dryer, Ductwork, Electrical, Food center, Garage door, Garbage Disposal, Heating system, Instant hot and cold water dispensers, Microwave, Oven, Plumbing, Plumbing stoppages, Range, Range exhaust hood, Smoke alarm, Sump pump, Toilet, Trash compactor, Washer, Water heater, Whirlpool/jetted tubs

Add-on Items

Pool, Premier Upgrade Package, Septic, Spa, Well pump

45 Years in Business BBB Rating: B
Cheapest Appliances Plan

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty

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4.6/5

Pros

  • Offers a $25,000 annual coverage cap
  • Pairs plans with a plan-length workmanship guarantee
  • Offers unique perks such as color matching appliance replacements

Cons

  • Charges a monthly processing fee if you choose monthly premiums
  • Excludes washer and dryer coverage from most plans
Plan Name Simply HVAC
Monthly Cost $39.70 – $50.20
Service Fee $65.00 - $100.00
Items Covered

Air conditioning, Heat pumps, Heating system, Thermostat

Add-on Items

Additional built-in wine cooler, Additional freestanding freezer, Additional pool, Additional refrigerator, Additional wet bar refrigerator, Extended pipe leak, Freshwater pool and spa, Garage-door opener, Luxury package, Plumbing and electrical, Roof-leak coverage, Saltwater pool and spa, Second additional built-in wine cooler, Second additional freestanding freezer, Second additional refrigerator, Second additional wet bar refrigerator, Septic system, Supreme Package, Washer and dryer, Water softener, Well pump

Plan Name Simply Kitchen
Monthly Cost $22.00 – $31.00
Service Fee $65.00 - $100.00
Items Covered

Built-in microwaves, Cooktops, Dishwashers, Ovens, Ranges, Refrigerators

Add-on Items

Additional built-in wine cooler, Additional freestanding freezer, Additional pool, Additional refrigerator, Additional wet bar refrigerator, Extended pipe leak, Freshwater pool and spa, Garage-door opener, Luxury package, Plumbing and electrical, Roof-leak coverage, Saltwater pool and spa, Second additional built-in wine cooler, Second additional freestanding freezer, Second additional refrigerator, Second additional wet bar refrigerator, Septic system, Supreme Package, Washer and dryer, Water softener, Well pump

Plan Name Essential Home
Monthly Cost $51.37 – $61.81
Service Fee $65.00 - $100.00
Items Covered

Air conditioning, Built-in microwaves, Cooktops, Dishwashers, Heat pumps, Heating system, Ovens, Ranges, Refrigerators, Thermostat

Add-on Items

Additional built-in wine cooler, Additional freestanding freezer, Additional pool, Additional refrigerator, Additional wet bar refrigerator, Extended pipe leak, Freshwater pool and spa, Garage-door opener, Luxury package, Plumbing and electrical, Roof-leak coverage, Saltwater pool and spa, Second additional built-in wine cooler, Second additional freestanding freezer, Second additional refrigerator, Second additional wet bar refrigerator, Septic system, Supreme Package, Washer and dryer, Water softener, Well pump

Plan Name Complete Home
Monthly Cost $51.00 – $60.00
Service Fee $65.00 - $100.00
Items Covered

Air conditioning, Built-in microwaves, Cooktops, Dishwashers, Electrical, Heat pumps, Heating system, Ovens, Plumbing, Ranges, Refrigerators, Thermostat

Add-on Items

Additional built-in wine cooler, Additional freestanding freezer, Additional pool, Additional refrigerator, Additional wet bar refrigerator, Extended pipe leak, Freshwater pool and spa, Garage-door opener, Luxury package, Roof-leak coverage, Saltwater pool and spa, Second additional built-in wine cooler, Second additional freestanding freezer, Second additional refrigerator, Second additional wet bar refrigerator, Septic system, Supreme Package, Washer and dryer, Water softener, Well pump

Plan Name Pinnacle Home
Monthly Cost $71.00 – $80.00
Service Fee $65.00 - $100.00
Items Covered

Air conditioning, Built-in microwaves, Clothes Dryer, Clothes Washer, Cooktops, Dishwashers, Electrical, Heat pumps, Heating system, Ovens, Plumbing, Ranges, Refrigerators, Supreme Package, Thermostat

Add-on Items

Additional built-in wine cooler, Additional freestanding freezer, Additional pool, Additional refrigerator, Additional wet bar refrigerator, Extended pipe leak, Freshwater pool and spa, Garage-door opener, Luxury package, Roof-leak coverage, Saltwater pool and spa, Second additional built-in wine cooler, Second additional freestanding freezer, Second additional refrigerator, Second additional wet bar refrigerator, Septic system, Water softener, Well pump

39 Years in Business BBB Rating: A-

*BBB ratings are accurate as of August 2023.

**Cost figures are based on information available on provider websites and are accurate as of August 2023. Request a quote from each company to see prices in your area.

Facts about Chicago
Average Max Temp: 57°F
Average Min Temp: 41°F
Average Annual Snowfall: 36.0"
Homeownership Rate: 65%
Median Home Size: 2100 sqft
Median Home Price: $287,709

Expert Tips By

This Old House empowers homeowners with the knowledge and tools they need to tackle various projects and navigate the complexities of homeownership.

Are Home Warranties Worth It for Chicago Residents?

Home warranties are worth it for Chicago residents. Chicago summers can have some very hot days, which means it's important that your air conditioner works well. However, over time this system can malfunction due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.

Winters in Chicago are very cold, which means having reliable heating is important. HVAC system replacement can cost from $2,500 to $8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, run about $644–$737 per year, based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies across the nation.

The regular rain in Chicago can damage your home's roof. Some home warranty providers offer limited roof-leak coverage, which can mitigate the cost of roof repair. Finally, home warranties connect you with reliable service providers.

Reputable home warranty companies vet all their service providers. If you're busy with work or other priorities, investing in a home warranty ensures a trustworthy technician will fix your issue.

What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company

Consider the following factors when selecting the best home warranty for your needs.

Cost

We received 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and determined that the average home warranty cost is $53–$62 per month. You'll also pay a service call fee of roughly $65–$125 every time you file a claim. Comprehensive home warranty plans typically cost more than basic ones. Home systems coverage plans usually cost more than appliance plans. Consider your specific needs before choosing a plan, as add-on coverage options will raise the monthly price.

Coverage

Many home warranty providers offer plans for select appliances or systems. Determine which systems and appliances you use the most before purchasing a plan. If you only need to cover certain major systems (such as heating) or certain appliances, you can find a plan that meets your needs. Here is a list of common systems coverage:

  • Air conditioner
  • Central vacuum
  • Ductwork
  • Electrical
  • Heating
  • Plumbing
  • Water heater
Commonly covered appliances include the following:
  • Built-in microwaves
  • Clothes washers and dryers
  • Dishwashers
  • Garbage disposals
  • Ovens
  • Refrigerators
  • Stovetops
Coverage limits are also important. Choosing a plan with higher coverage caps makes more sense for homes with older systems or appliances. It's important to note that, based on our research, companies with higher coverage caps tend to charge higher premiums.

Exclusions

Most home warranties only cover breakdowns from normal wear and tear. They don't cover improper installation or preexisting conditions. Additionally, home warranties don't cover cosmetic issues or appliance components, theft, routine maintenance, or defects. You can read about your provider's exclusions and limitations within your service contract. Read carefully to ensure you understand your plan's terms and conditions.

Provider Reputation

Consider a company's reputation when making a decision. You can also read real customer reviews on sites such as Google Reviews, Best Company, and Trustpilot. Reading reviews can give you a sense of how providers handle claims and customer service. Check with the Illinois Attorney General to verify that a provider holds a valid state license.

Contractor Network

Consider a home warranty company's service provider network. Reputable home warranty companies source licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. We suggest asking a provider how and where it sources technicians. Choose a provider that mentions service contractors you're familiar with. Homeowners in rural areas may prefer home warranty policies that allow customers to choose their technicians. In-network service providers may be unavailable in these areas, so you'll want the option to choose your own.

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Chicago

Do I need a home warranty in Chicago?

No, you don't need a home warranty in Chicago. However, we recommend purchasing one, as it helps you maintain a budget to cover expensive system and appliance breakdowns. It'll also save you time you'd otherwise spend searching for a trustworthy service technician.

What are preexisting conditions?

A preexisting condition is a breakdown or issue a home system or appliance experienced before coverage began. Many providers won't cover preexisting conditions. You should purchase a home warranty policy when all your appliances and systems still work for complete protection.

What is the best home warranty provider in Chicago?

The best home warranty in Chicago depends on what you're looking for. American Home Shield is a good choice for comprehensive coverage limits. You may also consider Liberty Home Guard if you need unique coverage.

Do home warranties cover other types of home items?

Yes, home warranties cover many kinds of home items aside from common appliances and systems. For example, some warranties cover septic systems, pools and spas, sump pumps, well pumps, stand-alone freezers, and more. Providers generally cover these items as add-ons. Check your provider's sample contract to see what add-ons are available.

Why is there a waiting period before my home warranty coverage begins?

Home warranty policies generally don't cover items that are already broken. Therefore, most home warranty providers have a waiting period of 30 days before the start of coverage to ensure system and appliance breakdowns are from normal wear and tear rather than preexisting conditions.

How long does a home warranty typically last?

The length of a home warranty varies based on the company. Plans typically last for a year, and you can renew at the end of your contract.

How can I maximize the value of my home warranty?

To get the most value from your home warranty in Chicago, read the terms and conditions carefully, so you know how coverage works. In addition, regularly maintain your home appliances and systems. This helps reduce the chance of a coverage dispute if something goes wrong.

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.

More Home Warranty Resources

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