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Best 6 Home Warranty Companies in San Francisco, CA

  1. Home
  2. Local Pros
  3. Home Warranty
  4. CA
  5. San Francisco
Written By Jessica Hurtault|Last Updated: April 18, 2024

Owning a home in California can be expensive. Not only that, but many cities in the Golden State see days of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Many homeowners rely on their air conditioning to deal with extreme heat.

According to the American Housing Survey, 10.7 million California homes have primary AC, such as central air. If your central AC breaks down, a home warranty can help resolve the problem. Below is our list of the best home warranty providers in San Francisco, California.

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 San Francisco

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 Appliance Coverage

First American Home Warranty

Pros

  • Allows you to choose your service call fee
  • Doesn’t have a coverage cap on heating, cooling, or ductwork
  • Accepts 24/7 service calls

Cons

  • Doesn’t let customers choose their own contractor
  • Charges higher for coverage compared to other providers
Plan Name Starter Plan
Monthly Cost $47.00 – $67.00
Service Fee $75.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Built-in microwave, Dishwasher, Ductwork, Electrical system, Heating system, Kitchen range hood, Oven/cooktop, Plumbing system, Plumbing stoppages, Refrigerator, Toilet tanks/bowls/mechanisms

Add-on Items

Additional refrigeration, Central air conditioning, First American Advantage, HVAC tune-up, Limited roof-leak, Pool/spa equipment, Septic tank pumping/system, Water softener, Well pump

Plan Name Essential Plan
Monthly Cost $52.00 – $72.00
Service Fee $75.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Air conditioning, Built-in microwave, Ceiling/attic/exhaust fans, Clothes washer, Clothes dryer, Dishwasher, Ductwork, Electrical system, First American Advantage, Garage door opener, Heating system, Kitchen range hood, Oven/cooktop, Plumbing system, Plumbing stoppages, Refrigerator, Toilet tanks/bowls/mechanisms, Trash compactor, Water heater

Add-on Items

Additional refrigeration, Central air conditioning, HVAC tune-up, Limited roof-leak, Pool/spa equipment, Septic tank pumping/system, Water softener, Well pump

Plan Name Premium Plan
Monthly Cost $67.00 – $87.00
Service Fee $75.00 - $125.00
Items Covered

Air conditioning, Built-in microwave, Ceiling/attic/exhaust fans, Central vacuum system, Clothes washer, Clothes dryer, Dishwasher, Ductwork, Electrical system, Faucets, First American Advantage, Full garage door system, Garbage disposal, Heating system, Instant hot water dispenser, Kitchen range hood, Luxury appliance coverage, Oven/cooktop, Plumbing system, Plumbing stoppages, Refrigerator, Shower head/shower arm, Toilet tanks/bowls/mechanisms, Trash compactor, Water heater, Window AC unit

Add-on Items

Additional refrigeration, Central air conditioning, HVAC tune-up, Limited roof-leak, Pool/spa equipment, Septic tank pumping/system, Water softener, Well pump

39 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 San Francisco
Average Max Temp:55°F
Average Min Temp:53°F
Average Annual Snowfall:0"
Homeownership Rate:38%
Median Home Size:1259 sqft
Median Home Price:$1,271,322

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 San Francisco Residents?

Yes, home warranties are beneficial for San Francisco residents. Summers in San Francisco can get hot, which makes it important for your air conditioner to work properly. However, over time this system can malfunction due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.

San Francisco winters are fairly mild, but there will still be days when you rely on your heating. HVAC system replacement can cost anywhere between $2,500 and $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.

Even the infrequent rain in San Francisco can damage your roof. The cost of repairs will be lower if your home warranty has roof-leak protection. Lastly, home warranties connect you with trustworthy service providers.

Reputable home warranty companies vet each service provider they work with. If life keeps you busy, investing in a home warranty ensures you have access to trustworthy technicians.

What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company

Consider the following factors to determine the best home warranty for your needs.

Cost

We pulled 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and determined that home warranties cost an average of $53–$62 per month. You'll also pay a service call fee of roughly $65–$125 each time you file a claim. A basic home warranty will be more affordable than a comprehensive one. Appliance plans are typically less costly than home systems coverage plans. With most plans, you can get add-on coverage options for an additional monthly cost. Consider your particular needs before purchasing a plan.

Coverage

Determine the appliances and systems you use most often. Most home warranty plans offer customizable coverage tailored to your needs. If you only want coverage for select systems, such as your air conditioner, most providers offer systems-only plans. The same is true if you only need coverage for select appliances. 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 a provider's coverage limits. A company with higher coverage caps makes more sense if your appliances and systems are older. However, based on our research, a company with higher coverage caps will typically charge higher premiums.

Exclusions

Home warranties generally only cover normal wear and tear. This doesn't include preexisting conditions or improper installation. Most policies also won't cover cosmetic issues or appliance components, routine maintenance, defects, or theft. Providers outline their exclusions and limitations in their service contracts. Thoroughly read your contract to make sure you understand the terms and conditions of your plan.

Provider Reputation

Also, consider provider reputation when making a decision. You can find customer reviews on sites like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and Best Company or look at a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Reviews and ratings are a great way to learn how providers handle claims and customer service. Check with the California Department of Consumer Affairs to verify that a provider holds a license with the state.

Contractor Network

Take into account a home warranty company's network of service providers. Reliable home warranty companies source licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. We suggest asking a provider where and how it sources technicians. Select a provider that mentions service contractors you're familiar with. Homeowners in rural areas should consider a home warranty policy that lets them choose their technician. In-network service providers may not be available in your area, so you'll need the option to source your own.

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in San Francisco

Is a home warranty required in San Francisco?

No, home warranties are not required in San Francisco. However, we still recommend purchasing a home warranty to help you maintain a budget to cover expensive system and appliance breakdowns. Home warranty companies also save you time by sourcing reputable technicians themselves.

What are preexisting conditions?

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

What is the best home warranty provider in San Francisco?

San Francisco's best home warranty provider depends on your specific needs. Liberty Home Guard is an excellent choice if you need unique coverage. Consider American Home Shield if you're looking for comprehensive coverage limits.

Do home warranties cover other types of home items?

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

Why do home warranties have a waiting period before coverage begins?

Most home warranty providers have a waiting period of 30 days before coverage begins. This is to know that any appliance and system breakdowns are from 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?

A home warranty only covers home systems and appliances that need repairing and replacing due to normal wear and tear. Homeowners insurance, on the other hand, protects homes for damage from disasters like fires, accidents, and property losses.

How long does a home warranty typically last?

How long a home warranty lasts depends on the company. Plans usually last for one year, and you can renew at the end of your contract.

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More Home Warranty Resources

Sources