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Best 5 Home Warranty Companies in Madison, WI

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Written By Jessica Hurtault|Last Updated: April 18, 2024

As a Wisconsin homeowner, you know how important it is to have reliable and well-maintained home systems and appliances. Whether dealing with a freezing winter or hot summer, your heating, plumbing, air conditioning, and other major systems need to run well. But when one of these systems fails, you can face expensive repairs.

A home warranty helps protect you from unexpected repair or replacement costs. That's why we've assembled a list of the top home warranty companies in Madison, Wisconsin.

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

5 Best Home Warranty Companies in Madison

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 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 Madison
Average Max Temp:55°F
Average Min Temp:38°F
Average Annual Snowfall:42.1"
Homeownership Rate:58%
Median Home Size:1936 sqft
Median Home Price:$374,206

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 Madison Residents?

Home warranties are worth it for Madison residents. Summers in Madison are fairly mild, but it's still important that your air conditioner works well. However, over time this system can malfunction due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.

Madison winters are freezing, which makes having reliable heating extremely important. HVAC system replacement can cost from $2,500 to $8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, run about $644–$737 annually, based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies across the nation.

The regular rain in Madison can damage your home's roof. The financial burden of this will be lessened if you have a home warranty with roof-leak coverage. 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 to determine the right home warranty plan for your needs.

Cost

We received 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and found that home warranties cost an average of $53–$62 per month. You'll also pay service call fees each time you file a claim. Service call fees range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans generally cost less than comprehensive ones. Home systems coverage plans usually cost more than appliance plans. Add-on coverage options raise the monthly cost, so consider your specific needs before purchasing a plan.

Coverage

You can often find home warranty plans that cover specific appliances and systems. Determine whether you need coverage for major systems (like heating), specific appliances, or both. Then ask your provider about its options for customized coverage. 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
Also, consider a company's coverage limits. Our research indicates that higher coverage limits tend to come with higher premiums. However, providers that offer higher coverage limits may still be the right choice for homeowners with older appliances or systems.

Exclusions

Most home warranties only cover normal wear and tear, which excludes improper installation and preexisting conditions. Additionally, most policies will exclude cosmetic issues or appliance components, theft, routine maintenance, or defects. You can find your provider's exclusions and limitations within your service contract. Be sure to read the contract carefully to understand your plan's terms and conditions.

Provider Reputation

Provider reputation is another important factor to consider. You can browse real customer reviews on sites like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and Best Company or check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Ratings and reviews can give you insight into how a company handles customer service and claims. Check with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection to verify that a provider holds a license with the state.

Contractor Network

Consider a home warranty company's service provider network. Make sure to ask where and how it sources technicians—reputable providers should always use licensed and registered contractors. Select a provider that mentions contractors you're familiar with. Rural homeowners might prefer home warranty policies that allow you to choose your technician. 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 Madison

Is a home warranty required in Madison?

No, home warranties are not required in Madison. However, home warranties are beneficial because they help you maintain a budget for covering expensive appliance and system breakdowns. Home warranty companies also save you time by sourcing reputable technicians themselves.

What are preexisting conditions?

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

What is Madison's best home warranty provider?

Madison's best home warranty provider depends on what you're looking for. American Home Shield is a good choice for comprehensive coverage limits. You might 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 find a home warranty that covers household items beyond common appliances and systems. For instance, some policies might cover pools and spas, stand-alone freezers, sump pumps, septic systems, or well pumps. These are normally considered add-ons. Check with your provider 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 waiting period of 30 days before coverage begins. This is to make sure any system and appliance breakdowns are the result of normal wear and tear rather than a preexisting condition. Home warranty providers won't cover an already broken item.

How can I maximize the value of my home warranty?

To get the most from your home warranty in Madison, read the contract thoroughly, so you know what is and isn't covered. Additionally, keep up with regular maintenance for your home appliances and systems. This helps reduce the likelihood of a coverage dispute if one has a breakdown.

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