Best Home Warranties in Cincinnati, OH

We compared 10 companies and chose the top home warranty providers

    • Best overall
      Cinch Home Services
      4.0(12,100)
    • Value
      American Home Shield
      3.7(108,322)
    • Quick service
      Choice Home Warranty
      4.0(72,323)
    +1 more

    Best Home Warranties in Cincinnati, OH

    Based on verified reviews from local homeowners, Cinch Home Services is the best home warranty company in Cincinnati. American Home Shield is also a good choice for affordable protection, and Choice Home Warranty stands out for its fast response times.

    Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
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    Our 4 home warranty company picks in Cincinnati

    1. Best overall: Cinch Home Services
    2. Best value: American Home Shield
    3. Best for quick service: Choice Home Warranty
    4. Best technicians: ARW Home

    Our research team vetted home warranty companies that are rated by hundreds of customers in Nevada. We choose the best home warranty in Cincinnati by comparing local reviews, plans, costs, coverage caps and labor guarantees.

    Read our full methodology below for all the details. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us, but this does not affect our recommendations or evaluations.

    Compare home warranty companies

    Our 4 Cincinnati home warranty company picks

    Learn more about the best home warranty companies in your area, based on real reviews from customers in Cincinnati and Ohio as a whole on ConsumerAffairs.

    Best overall

    Cinch Home Services

    Cinch Home Services
    Plans available
    3
    Service fees
    $100, $125 or $150
    Starting costs
    $38.99
    Labor guarantee
    180 days

    Cinch Home Services stands out as our top pick because it delivers a rare combination of quick response times, reasonable pricing and an industry-leading 180-day labor guarantee.

    It offers a streamlined claims process, and customers can expect a contractor to be assigned within two hours of filing most claims. Whether you need appliance or system coverage, Cinch’s plans are flexible and well-suited to Cincinnati’s climate challenges.

    What to consider: Cinch doesn’t offer roof leak coverage as an add-on, which may be a drawback if you want more comprehensive protection for your home’s roof.

    Pros
    • Low starting costs
    • Three service fee options
    • 180-day workmanship guarantee
    • Covers unknown preexisting conditions
    • Quick response times
    Cons
    • Few add-on options

    Cinch Home Services has three plan options: an appliances plan (starting at $38.99, $47.32 or $48.99 per month), a systems plan (starting at $43.99, $52.32 or $55.99 per month) and the Complete Home plan (starting at $54.99, $63.32 or $66.99 per month), which includes the coverage from the other two plans.

    Service call fees are $100, $125 or $150 — choosing a lower deductible increases the plan’s cost. Each plan includes a water sensor to detect leaks.

    Add-ons and discounts

    • Optional add-ons:
      • Septic tank and pumping: $4.58
      • Well pump: $12.50
      • Premier upgrade package: $12.50
      • Pool and spa (heater included): $22
    • Discounts: First month free in some cases

    Reviewers in Omaha say Cinch is responsive, friendly and has an easy online claims process, though some cite issues with inconsistent provider quality.

    2x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service and Best Overall Process
    American Home Shield
    Plans available
    3
    Service fees
    $100 or $125
    Starting costs
    $29.99
    Labor guarantee
    30 days

    American Home Shield earns our best value pick because it blends extensive coverage with practical features.  With high limits for HVAC repairs and corrosion coverage, AHS is well-suited for the region’s tough winters and humid summers.

    The claim submission process is also simple, with helpful digital tools and the option to video chat with a repair expert.

    What to consider: American Home Shield offers fewer add-on options than many competitors, so those looking for specialty coverage may not find what they need.

    Pros
    • Easy claims process
    • High coverage limits
    • Covers rust, corrosion and sediment damage
    • Cancel at any time
    Cons
    • Occasional service delays
    • Relatively high service fees

    Base plans from AHS start at $29.99 a month. You can choose a $100 or $125 deductible, but be aware that this affects your monthly cost. All plans have a total limit of $50,000 per agreement term.

    • ShieldSilver ($29.99 or $39.99): Covers 14 major systems, including heating, cooling, electrical and plumbing. This plan has a $5,000 limit per covered HVAC system.
    • ShieldGold ($49.99 or $59.99): Covers 24 appliances and systems, including kitchen and laundry equipment. It also has a $5,000 limit per covered HVAC system and limits each covered appliance to $2,000.
    • SheldPlatinum ($79.99 or $89.99): The most comprehensive plan. It has the same HVAC system limit but raises the annual per-appliance limit to $4,000 and includes roof leak coverage up to $1,000.

    Add-ons and discounts

    • Optional add-ons
      • 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
    • Discounts: AARP and military service; $50 discount for covering multiple properties

    Customers in Cincinnati praise AHS for the smooth claims process, professional technicians and efficient repairs, but some express frustration about rising costs and delays for urgent repairs.

    3x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service, Best Overall Value and Best Overall Process
    Best for quick service

    Choice Home Warranty

    Choice Home Warranty
    Plans available
    2
    Service fees
    $100
    Starting costs
    $46.83
    Labor guarantee
    60 days

    Choice Home Warranty earns our recommendation for quick service because it prioritizes rapid response times and works with a robust network of local technicians. Its policy to respond to service requests within four hours is especially beneficial for Cincinnati homeowners facing urgent HVAC failures or plumbing emergencies.

    What to consider: Choice does not offer appliance-only or systems-only plans — only combination plans — and you can’t select your preferred service fee, which could limit flexibility.

    Pros
    • Optional roof leak coverage
    • No transfer fee
    • 24/7 customer service
    Cons
    • $500 roof repair cap

    Choice plans start at $49.17 per month, and Total plans start at $57.50 per month. Both have a flat $100 service fee. Contracts last one year — expect to pay a $50 cancellation fee if you cancel early. However, you can transfer the contract with no penalty.

    • Basic: Covers 14 systems and appliances, including heating, electrical and plumbing.
    • Total: Includes everything in the basic plan and covers your washer and dryer, refrigerator and air conditioning system.

    Add-ons and discounts

    • Optional add-ons
      • Ice maker: $2.08
      • Second refrigerator: $3.33
      • Stand-alone freezer: $3.33
      • Sump pump: $3.33
      • Central vacuum: $3.33
      • Septic tank pumping: $5.42
      • Roof leak repair: $5.83
      • Well pump: $8.33
      • Sprinkler system: $8.33
      • Septic system: $10
      • Pool and spa: $15
      • Additional spa: $15
    • Discounts: Reduced premiums with annual payments; free extra month

    Cincinnati reviewers say Choice Home Warranty provides quick service and skilled technicians, but some express dissatisfaction with limited coverage.

    Best technicians

    ARW Home

    ARW Home
    Plans available
    3
    Service fees
    $125
    Starting costs
    $39.99
    Labor guarantee
    30 days

    ARW Home is our choice for technician quality. The company offers a wide range of coverage for both appliances and systems. It also stands out for its commitment to serving multifamily homes and condos.

    We also like that ARW doesn’t put a limit on the number of claims you can file and is willing to cover systems and appliances regardless of age or brand.

    What to consider: Plumbing coverage from ARW Home excludes toilets and faucets, so check your contract if those are priorities.

    Pros
    • Covers systems and appliances regardless of age or model
    • No limit on the number of claims
    • Covers multifamily homes and condominiums
    Cons
    • No add-ons for appliances

    You can choose from three plans that ARW Home offers:

    • Kitchen Plus ($39.99): Covers kitchen appliances and some systems.
    • Platinum ($64.99): Covers more appliances and some systems, like AC and heating.
    • Platinum Premier ($84.99): The fullest coverage available, extending to things like ductwork, plumbing stoppages and garage door openers.

    Add-ons and discounts

    • Optional add-ons
      • Water line: $10.99
      • Pool and spa: $12.50
      • Sewer line: $12.99
      • In-ground pool: $13.99
      • Electronics protection: $24.99
    • Discounts: You can get two months free when you sign up for a 12-month home warranty plan. This doesn't include add-ons.

    ARW customers in Cincinnati praise the company's knowledge and friendly reps, but a few express frustration over limited coverage.

    Home Warranties in Cincinnati, OH Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

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    Simplify your search

    Compare plans tailored to your home & budget.

      Homeowners in Cincinnati deal with AC failures during muggy summer days and furnace breakdowns in the dead of winter. A home warranty makes paying for these urgent repairs more predictable.

      Key insights

      In Cincinnati, a valuable home warranty offers equally strong coverage for both air conditioning and heating systems to handle the demanding seasons.

      Jump to insight

      Cincinnati home warranty plans cost $30 to $90 per month on average. Your rate depends on the coverage level, your service fee and add-ons.

      Jump to insight

      Home warranties cover major home systems and appliances when they break down from normal wear and tear.

      Jump to insight

      How to choose a home warranty in Cincinnati

      Choosing a home warranty in Cincinnati is about matching your home’s specific needs with the right plan and company. Follow these steps to find a policy:

      1. Decide what coverage you need

      Think about which systems or appliances are most likely to break given Cincinnati’s four distinct seasons. Are you more concerned about your aging furnace, or do you expect your AC will need service soon? Balancing these needs with price, exclusions and contract details will help you find the best fit.

      You’ll then decide whether you want appliance coverage, system protection or both. For example, if your HVAC and plumbing are newer but your major appliances are showing signs of age, an appliance plan may be best. If your appliances are under a manufacturer’s warranty but you’re worried about a furnace or AC failure, a systems plan could offer better value.

      Many homeowners benefit from a combo plan, which usually comes with higher coverage caps and broader protection. Homes in flood-prone areas near the Little Miami River or Mill Creek can also benefit from sump pump coverage, especially during spring thaws and heavy summer storms.

      2. Compare costs

      Look at the total expense — not just the monthly premium. Service fees typically range from $75 to $125 per visit, and these can add up if you need multiple repairs during the year. Also consider the value of add-ons and any potential exclusions.

      In Cincinnati, the best value is often a mid- to high-tier combination plan that fully funds both heating and cooling repairs. Be mindful of coverage caps, since some plans won’t cover the full cost of a major repair or replacement. Add-ons like roof leak and sump pump coverage can raise your annual cost but may be worth it for older homes.

      That said, a home warranty plan can be worth the cost for many homeowners. Amelia, a Cinch customer who pays about $1,000 a year for her warranty, said, “Each year, it has almost always paid for itself.” Her warranty also gives her peace of mind. “I can focus on other matters, knowing everything from garage openers to air conditioning units is covered.”

      3. Review sample contracts

      Before you sign up, always read a sample contract for exclusions and requirements. Look for waiting periods, rules about preexisting conditions and how claims are processed.

      Read the contract's fine print on HVAC maintenance requirements. Since Cincinnati winters can be harsh, check whether your contract requires pre-winter furnace inspections. Some providers may deny claims if your unit hasn’t been serviced annually. Also, check the specific terms of sump pump coverage to understand what types of failures are included.

      4. Read customer reviews

      Local reviews offer a window into how each provider handles claims and communicates during emergencies. Pay attention to feedback about contractor speed, reliability and transparency, especially during peak hot and cold spells.

      Cincinnati customer Brittany had this to say about her Cinch warranty, which she’s had for two years: “Whenever I needed to file a claim, it was easy to handle everything online without making any phone calls, and the process always works smoothly.”

      A provider with a strong local network of qualified HVAC technicians will have consistently positive feedback. Positive feedback often focuses on prompt repairs and knowledgeable techs, while negative reviews may highlight issues with denied claims or long wait times.

      » MORE: How to buy a home warranty

      How much does a home warranty cost in Cincinnati?

      The average annual cost of a home warranty is $684 as of June 2025. A Cincinnati home warranty costs between $360 and $1080 per year, based on plans from our top picks. Just remember that your cost mostly depends on the coverage you choose and what add-on options you select.

      Cost range by home warranty provider

      Monthly or annual premiums

      You can usually pay for your home warranty monthly or annually. Paying by the month spreads out your cost, while annual payments often come with a discount. Your price will depend on the provider, plan type and add-ons.

      Service call fees

      Every time you request service, you’ll pay a service call fee — like a deductible — for a technician’s visit. These typically run from $75 to $150 per incident in Cincinnati, depending on your plan.

      Add-on coverage

      You can customize your plan with additional coverage, such as for a pool or sump pump. Add-ons usually cost between $2 and $25 per month, per item.

      Other home warranty cost factors

      What you pay for a warranty in Cincinnati depends on a few important details:

      • Home size and type: Larger homes may need more coverage, which means higher premiums. Smaller properties, such as condos, generally cost less to cover.
      • Level of coverage: Lower-cost home warranties cover fewer systems and appliances. Comprehensive combo plans cost more but offer broader protection.
      • Location: Cincinnati's four-season climate leads to consistent, year-round claims for both heating and cooling systems. This steady demand, along with local labor rates, is factored into regional home warranty pricing.
      • Discounts: Many companies run promotions or offer discounts for long-term plans.

      Example: total annual home warranty costs

      • Systems coverage ($50 per month): $600 per year
      • Add-on for roof leak repair ($10 per month): $120 per year
      • Add-on for sump pump ($4 per month): $48 per year
      • Three claims ($100 service fee): $300
      • Total: $1,068 per year

      What does a Cincinnati home warranty cover?

      Cincinnati home warranty plans are typically available in three types: appliance coverage, systems coverage and combination plans. Learn about what’s included in each type of home warranty:

      • Appliance plans: Protect major kitchen and laundry appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, stoves, washers and dryers.
      • Systems plans: Focus on your home’s essential operating systems, such as heating, cooling, electrical, plumbing and water heaters.
      • Combo plans: Deliver coverage for both appliances and systems, for the most complete protection.

      You can often enhance your plan with optional add-ons. In Cincinnati, sump pump coverage is crucial for homes with basements. Roof leak repair and plumbing stoppage add-ons are also smart, particularly for older homes.

      » LEARN: What voids a home warranty?

      How much can you save with a Cincinnati home warranty?

      Your savings will depend on what actually breaks down in your home. Often, just one covered repair or replacement can pay for your warranty. According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, it’s smart to set aside 1% to 3% of your home’s value for repairs each year. For most, a home warranty costs less than that—and offers peace of mind.

      Average repair/replacement costs for covered items

      In a city like Cincinnati, where seasonal extremes strain HVAC systems and hard water causes issues for plumbing and water heaters, the potential for costly repairs is high. Here's what you'll pay for the most common repairs and replacements in Cincinnati without a home warranty:

      FAQ

      How does a home warranty work?

      A home warranty is a service contract for home systems and appliances. You pay a monthly or yearly fee, plus a service fee for each repair call. When something breaks, you file a claim. The warranty company sends a contractor and pays them to fix it. If it can’t be fixed, the company helps pay for a replacement. Coverage depends on the plan, and limits apply.

      Is a home warranty worth it in Cincinnati?

      A home warranty can be worth it if you want to protect yourself from unexpected repair or replacement costs. For many homeowners, the peace of mind comes from knowing that a major system breakdown or appliance failure won’t result in a large, unplanned bill.

      What does a home warranty not cover?

      Most home warranty plans don’t cover preexisting conditions, improper installation, cosmetic damage and items still under a manufacturer’s warranty.

      Coverage limits also apply — for example, a contract might only cover up to a certain amount for an HVAC repair, leaving you responsible for the rest. Routine maintenance, landscaping and structural elements like walls or windows are also not included.

      For example, a Cincinnati home warranty will not cover damage from a sewer line backup into your basement; it would only cover the repair of the sewer line on your property. Any resulting water damage is a job for the homeowner's insurance.

      Methodology

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team used a data-backed process informed by expert editorial judgment and verified customer reviews. We started with home warranty companies available in Cincinnati, then evaluated which performed best for local residents.

      We prioritized real customer experiences in Cincinnati and also gave extra weight to reviews from Ohio. National reviews were also considered, but with much lower weighting. We discarded companies with no reviews from homeowners in Cincinnati. Our review evaluation focused on seven satisfaction drivers:

      • Technician quality
      • Customer service
      • Claims handling
      • Punctuality and speed
      • Coverage
      • Value
      • Refunds and payouts

      In addition to reviews, we compared the companies on:

      • Coverage options: We broke down each company’s home warranty plans to ensure they offer multiple coverage options to fit a variety of needs.
      • Plan flexibility: Customizing a plan can tailor it to your needs and help you save money. We checked to see what customization options each company offers, including the ability to select a service fee and the number and cost of add-on coverages.
      • Cost: Costs for home warranty plans vary based on the size of the home and the type of coverage, but we confirmed our top picks’ prices are competitive in the home warranty industry.
      • Service call fee: We looked at the service fee each company charges to send a technician to your house to ensure our top picks are in line with industry standards.
      • Service guarantee: The longer a company guarantees its repairs, the more protection you get if the same issue comes back. We considered how each provider backs its workmanship.

      Not sure how to choose?

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