Owning a home comes with its own set of challenges, and unexpected repairs are some of the most significant issues. Repairs can be needed at very inconvenient times and are often expensive. Home warranties help cover the cost of home repairs for systems and appliances. We took a close look at American Home shield and Cinch Home Services to break down the premium prices, service fees and what is covered. Use our analysis to help you decide which is best for you.
American Home Shield vs. Cinch Home Services cost
Cinch Home Services stands out with a lower starting service fee, which is what you pay per service call. On the other hand, American Home Shield offers more affordable monthly rates for its introductory plans. When it comes to top-tier coverage, Cinch Home Services becomes the more budget-friendly option.
American Home Shield plans and pricing
American Home Shield lets you choose a service fee of $100 or $125, which is what you pay when you file a claim. Choosing a higher service fee reduces the monthly cost of your plan.
| Service fee | ShieldSilver | ShieldGold | ShieldPlatinum |
|---|---|---|---|
| $100 | $39.99 | $59.99 | $89.99 |
| $125 | $29.99 | $49.99 | $79.99 |
Cinch Home Services plans and pricing
You can choose a service fee of $100, $125 or $150 when you sign up with Cinch Home Services. Paying a lower service fee reduces your out-of-pocket expense when making a repair, but increases the monthly cost of your plan.
| Service fee | Repair Only | Repair + Replace | Repair + Replace Premier |
|---|---|---|---|
| $100 | $39.99 | $66.99 | $89.99 |
| $125 | $36.32 | $63.32 | $86.32 |
| $150 | $27.99 | $54.99 | $77.99 |
*Cost information is accurate as of the time of publishing. Price quotes used a Texas ZIP code; pricing may vary in other locations.
American Home Shield vs. Cinch Home Services coverage
Your choice between these two companies may depend on the type of coverage you need upfront. Both companies provide specialized entry-level options that cover only appliances or only systems, giving you flexibility if you don't need a combined plan. Their top-tier plans are also similar, offering comprehensive all-in-one coverage.
 |  | |
| Coverage |  |  |
|---|---|---|
| Plan | ||
| Air conditioner | | |
| Heating | | |
| Plumbing | | |
| Electrical | | |
| Ductwork | | |
| Sump pump | | |
| Water heater | | |
| Interior plumbing lines | | |
| Interior electrical lines | | |
| Exterior plumbing lines | | |
| Exterior water lines | | |
| Refrigerator | | |
| Dishwasher | | |
| Oven | | |
| Range | | |
| Cooktop | | |
| Microwave | | |
| Food center | | |
| Garbage disposal | | |
| Trash compactor | | |
| Ice maker | | |
| Hot/cold water dispenser | | |
| Range exhaust hood | | |
| Kitchen exhaust fan | | |
| Clothes washer | | |
| Clothes dryer | | |
| Toilets | | |
| Bathtub/shower | | |
| Faucets | | |
| Ceiling fans | | |
| Attic fans | | |
| Central vacuum | | |
| Doorbells | | |
| Garage door openers | | |
| Roof leak repairs | | |
| Main breaker | | |
| Plumbing stoppages | | |
| Home electronics | | |
| Smoke detectors | | |
| Jetted tub components | | |
American Home Shield vs. Cinch Home Services add-ons
American Home Shield offers a wider variety of specialty add-ons including coverage for guest units and septic pumps. Cinch Home Services covers the basics like pool and spa protection but has fewer unique options. Both companies offer a premier upgrade package.
American Home Shield add-ons
American Home Shield offers six add-ons. See pricing for the most popular additional coverage items below.
| Optional coverage | Monthly cost |
|---|---|
| Septic pump | $4.99 |
| Roof leak repair | $9.99 |
| Well pump | $9.99 |
| Guest unit | $12.99 |
| Electronics protection | $14 |
| Pool and spa | $20.99 |
Cinch Home Services add-ons
Cinch Home Services allows you to choose from six add-ons in addition to the coverage of its base plans. The monthly costs for the most popular items are below:
| Optional coverage | Monthly cost |
|---|---|
| Septic tank and pumping | $4.58 |
| Well pump | $12.50 |
| Premier upgrade package | $12.50 |
| Pool and spa (heater included) | $22 |
What American Home Shield customers say
American Home Shield receives mostly positive feedback in reviews on ConsumerAffairs. Happy customers frequently say they are happy with the work done, find the contractors helpful and appreciate the fast service and the money they save on repairs. Some customers have left feedback about negative experiences and expressed frustration surrounding communication issues and the timeline for repairs.
American Home Shield said the contractor would contact me within 24 hours. And they did. ... He was here right at 11:00 and did a good job. He was in and out. ... The young man was professional and had a nice personality.”
– Kelley of Charlotte, NC
What Cinch Home Services customers say
Positive Cinch feedback mentions the ease of submitting claims and positive experiences with technicians. Customers say they like the peace of mind the contract provides. A few customers have expressed frustration with long wait times to resolve claims, and there are a few mentions of people having to call multiple times to resolve issues.
Cinch works with you. ... The techs were very nice and helpful. They told me what was going on and everything that they had to do. It was an excellent experience and I would be more than happy to recommend them.”
– Shirley of New Orleans, LA
Bottom line: American Home Shield or Cinch Home Services?
American Home Shield and Cinch Home Services both offer three levels of home warranty options and add-ons. However, there are some differences. Cinch Home Services offers an appliances-only package, which could be a big benefit to some. But American Home Shield offers coverage for electronics (not available in California), which is also beneficial.
- Cinch Home Services is best for those who want the option of an appliance-only home warranty solution.
- American Home Shield is best for those who want additional electronics and roof leak coverage options.
