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Best 6 Home Warranty Companies in Skokie, IL

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Written By Jessica Hurtault|Last Updated: April 18, 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 Skokie, 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 Skokie

Best for Comprehensive Coverage

American Home Shield

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 BusinessBBB Rating: B
Best Customer Ratings

Liberty Home Guard

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 BusinessBBB Rating: A+
Best Value

Select Home Warranty

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 BusinessBBB Rating: B-
Best for Customization

AFC Home Warranty

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 BusinessBBB Rating: B
Best Additional Perks

Cinch Home Services

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 BusinessBBB Rating: B
Cheapest Appliances Plan

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty

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 BusinessBBB 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 Skokie
Average Max Temp:57°F
Average Min Temp:41°F
Average Annual Snowfall:38.3"
Homeownership Rate:57%
Median Home Size:1475 sqft
Median Home Price:$361,013

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 Skokie Residents?

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

Skokie winters are very cold, meaning you rely on your heating system often. HVAC system replacement can cost between $2,500 and $8,000, compared to a home warranty coming in at around $644–$737 annually based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies across the nation. Skokie's regular rain showers can also affect your roof.

Some home warranty companies offer limited roof-leak coverage to ease the financial burden of repair. Lastly, a home warranty connects you with trustworthy service providers. A reputable home warranty is a good investment because companies vet their technicians.

When life keeps you busy, your home warranty company can ensure that someone reliable will handle your problem.

What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company

Think about these important factors when determining the right home warranty plan for you.

Cost

We requested 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and determined that the average home warranty costs between $53–$62 per month. You also have to pay service call fees each time you file a claim. These fees range from $65–$125 per claim. A basic home warranty is more affordable than a comprehensive one. Home systems coverage plans will cost more than appliance plans. Most plans offer add-on coverage options for an additional monthly cost. Consider your specific needs before purchasing a plan.

Coverage

You can look for a home warranty plan that covers specific systems and appliances. Decide whether you need coverage for major systems (such as heating), specific appliances, or both. Then ask your provider what its options are for customized coverage. The following 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
Also, consider coverage limits. Our research indicates that higher coverage limits tend to come with higher premiums. However, companies that have higher coverage limits may still be the right choice for homes with older systems or appliances.

Exclusions

Typically, home warranties don't cover preexisting conditions or improper installation. Most policies only cover breakdowns from normal wear and tear. Most also exclude cosmetic issues or appliance components, theft, defects, or routine maintenance. Each provider will outline its limitations and exclusions in its service contract. Thoroughly read your contract to fully understand your plan's terms and conditions.

Provider Reputation

Also, consider a provider's reputation when making a decision. You can find customer reviews on sites such as Best Company, Google Reviews, and Trustpilot or look at a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Ratings and reviews are a great way to see how providers handle customer service and claims. Check with the Illinois Attorney General to verify the status of a provider's state license.

Contractor Network

Consider a home warranty company's service provider network. Your provider should always send licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. Make sure you ask where and how a company sources its technicians. Choose a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Residents of rural areas might consider home warranties that allow the customer to choose their technician. You may need to source your own provider if no in-network ones are available in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Skokie

Is a home warranty required in Skokie?

No, you don't need a home warranty in Skokie. However, we still recommend purchasing one, as it helps you maintain a budget to cover expensive appliance and system breakdowns. You'll also save time that would be otherwise spent searching for a trustworthy service technician.

What are preexisting conditions?

Preexisting conditions are breakdowns or issues that a home system or appliance experienced before coverage began. Most providers won't cover preexisting conditions. You should purchase a home warranty policy while all your systems and appliances still work for full protection.

What is Skokie's best home warranty provider?

Skokie's best home warranty provider depends on what you're looking for. American Home Shield is a good choice for comprehensive coverage limits. You can also consider Liberty Home Guard if you need unique coverage.

Can I get a home warranty that covers other types of home items?

Yes, you can get a home warranty that covers home items besides common systems and appliances. For instance, some home warranty policies might cover sump pumps, septic systems, stand-alone freezers, well pumps, or pools and spas. These are usually considered add-ons. Check with a company representative to determine what add-ons are available.

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

Most home warranty companies have a 30-day waiting period before coverage begins. This is to know that any appliance and system breakdowns are caused by normal wear and tear rather than a preexisting condition. Home warranty providers won't cover an already broken item.

How is a home warranty different from homeowners insurance?

Homeowners insurance provides coverage for damage from potential hazards, such as due to natural disasters and accidents. In contrast, a home warranty covers repairs and replacements of household systems and appliances that break down due to normal wear.

How do I file a claim with my home warranty provider?

The general process for resolving claims is simple. When an appliance or system stops working, check your home warranty contract to make sure the item is covered. You can then contact the provider to submit a claim. You can call or use the provider's online portal. You pay the service fee, and your provider sends a professional contractor to your home to diagnose and repair the issue.

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

Sources