Best overall
Cinch Home Services
4.0
12,187 reviews
- Plans available
- 3
- Service fee
- $100, $125 or $150
- Starting cost
- $38.99
- Labor guarantee
- 180 days
Best Home Warranties in Columbus, OH
- Best overall
Cinch Home Services4.0(12,187) - Quick service
Choice Home Warranty4.0(72,892) - Value
American Home Shield3.7(108,818)
By:
Matt Zane
+1 more
Edited by:
Cassidy McCants
Best Home Warranties in Columbus, OH
Cinch Home Services is the best home warranty company in Columbus, based on recent reviews from local homeowners. Choice Home Warranty is a good choice if you want fast response times. American Home Shield stands out for affordable coverage.
Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
- Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
- 4,790,241 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
- We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
- We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
- Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.
Our 4 home warranty company picks in Columbus
- Best overall: Cinch Home Services
- Best for quick service: Choice Home Warranty
- Best value: American Home Shield
- Best claims handling: Regency Total Warranty
Our research team vetted home warranty companies that are rated by hundreds of customers in Ohio. We choose the best home warranty in Columbus 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
| Company | Customer rating | Our pick for | Monthly starting cost | Service fee(s) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Cinch Home Services | Get a Quote | 4.0
12,187 reviews
12,187 reviews
| Best overall | $38.99 | $100, $125 or $150 |
 Choice Home Warranty | Get a Quote | 4.0
72,892 reviews
72,892 reviews
| Quick service | $46.83 | $100 |
 American Home Shield | Get a Quote | 3.7
108,818 reviews
108,818 reviews
| Value | $29.99 | $100 or $125 |
 Regency Total Warranty | Learn More | 4.1
984 reviews
984 reviews
| Claims handling | $44.99 | $60 to $100 |
Our 4 Columbus home warranty company picks
Learn more about the best home warranty companies in Columbus, based on the real, verified reviews from customers in Columbus and Ohio on ConsumerAffairs.
Best for quick service
Choice Home Warranty
4.0
72,892 reviews
- Plans available
- 2
- Service fee
- $100
- Starting cost
- $46.83
- Labor guarantee
- 60 days
Best value
American Home Shield
3.7
108,818 reviews
- Plans available
- 3
- Service fee
- $100 or $125
- Starting cost
- $29.99
- Labor guarantee
- 30 days
Best claims handling
Regency Total Warranty
4.1
984 reviews
- Plans available
- 2
- Service fee
- $60 to $100
- Starting cost
- $44.99
- Labor guarantee
- Unclear
Home Warranties in Columbus, OH Buyers Guide
Jump into our guides and start learning
In this guide
Homeowners in Columbus regularly require AC service during humid summer months and may even face furnace failures during winter snows. A good home warranty provides peace of mind and financial protection against these seasonal emergencies.
For Columbus homeowners, the best warranty is a balanced plan that offers strong protection for both air conditioning in the summer and heating in the winter.
Jump to insightColumbus 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 insightRoof leak protection is typically an add-on. If water stains appear on your ceiling, the warranty may cover patching the roof.
Jump to insightHow to choose a home warranty in Columbus
Finding the right home warranty in Columbus means looking at your home’s unique needs and the city’s four-season climate. Here’s how to pick the best plan for your home:
1. Decide what coverage you need
Decide first if you want appliance coverage, systems coverage or both. For homes with newer HVAC or plumbing, but older kitchen or laundry appliances, an appliance plan could save you more.
If you’re more concerned about the high cost of a furnace or AC replacement, a systems plan is a better fit. Most Columbus homeowners choose a combination plan for broader protection and higher payout limits.
Look for a well-rounded plan in Columbus that gives equal weight to both furnace and AC coverage. With many historic homes in areas like German Village, ensuring the plan covers older plumbing and electrical systems is also a smart strategy.
2. Compare costs
Don’t just focus on the monthly premium. Consider the total annual cost, including service fees, since multiple claims in a year can quickly add up.
In Columbus, a mid-tier combination plan often represents the best value, offering sufficient caps for both heating and cooling systems without the high cost of premium plans, which may be unnecessary for the region's climate.
Check coverage caps carefully, especially for HVAC and plumbing. Also, consider the cost of add-ons like sump pumps or roof leaks, which can add to your annual cost.
3. Review sample contracts
Always read through sample contracts on the company’s website. These documents clarify what’s not covered, such as preexisting conditions or cosmetic damage and outline how and when you can file a claim or cancel your coverage.
Review the contract for any clauses related to the age of your systems, especially if you live in an older home. Ensure there isn't a clause that denies coverage for systems over a certain age. Coverage caps are also important to consider.
Vickie from Columbus told us that she wished she had read the fine print about her older furnace. She reported, “They only covered $3,000 of the furnace. I had to finance $10,000. When I had to have a new stove when I first bought my place, they covered the whole thing. I thought that was with everything, but evidently, it's not.”
4. Read customer reviews
Real reviews from Columbus homeowners are a valuable tool for judging a company’s contractor network and claims process. Look for comments about contractor punctuality, repairs being completed quickly and pricing transparency.
When reading reviews from Columbus residents, look for feedback on the reliability of the local contractors a company uses. A warranty is only as good as the technicians it dispatches to your home. James from Columbus detailed his frustrating experience with a few technicians. He said, “They sent out a third guy, but he showed up at my house unannounced at 8 AM one day.”
Positive reviews often highlight smooth claims processes and responsive customer service, while negative ones may point to frequent denials or hidden costs.
» MORE: How to choose a home warranty
How much does a home warranty cost in Columbus?
Columbus home warranty costs range from $360 to $1,080 per year, depending on the level of coverage you choose and any add-ons. On average, expect to pay between $30 and $90 per month for most plans. Your price will vary based on your home’s size, the plan you select and which service fee you opt for.
Cost range by home warranty provider
| Company | Monthly premium range | Service call fee | |
|---|---|---|---|
Cinch Home Services | Get a Quote | $38.99 to $66.99 | $100, $125 or $150 |
Choice Home Warranty | Get a Quote | $46.83 to $54.75 | $100 |
American Home Shield | Get a Quote | $29.99 to $89.99 | $100 or $125 |
Regency Total Warranty | Learn More | $44.99 to $49.99 | $60 to $100 |
Monthly or annual premiums
Many companies let you pay either monthly or annually. Annual payments usually mean a small discount, while monthly payments help spread out the cost.
Service call fees
Every claim requires a service fee, generally from $75 to $150, which you pay when a technician visits your home. This is similar to a deductible and is charged per claim.
Add-on coverage
Optional coverage for things like pools, sump pumps or additional appliances is available from most companies. Add-ons typically cost between $2 and $25 per month each.
Other home warranty cost factors
The price you pay will be influenced by:
- Home size and type: Larger houses typically need more coverage and cost more. Smaller condos or townhomes may have lower premiums.
- Level of coverage: Basic home warranty plans are cheaper, but don’t cover as much. Combo plans that include both systems and appliances cost more.
- Location: The four-season climate in Columbus ensures a steady demand for both heating and cooling repairs. That informs local warranty pricing. The age of housing stock in some areas can also influence costs.
- Discounts: Many companies offer special rates for annual or multi-year plans.
Example: total annual home warranty costs
- Systems coverage ($50 per month): $600 per year
- Add-on for sump pump coverage ($7 per month): $84 per year
- Two claims ($125 service fee): $250
- Total: $934 per year
What does a Columbus home warranty cover?
Home warranty plans in Columbus generally come in three forms: appliance-only, systems-only and combination (combo) plans.
- Appliance plans typically include protection for kitchen and laundry appliances.
- Systems plans focus on major home systems like HVAC, plumbing and electrical, which are heavily used due to Columbus’s changing seasons.
- Combo plans give you the widest protection, covering both categories.
Most leading providers also let you add extra coverage for things like roof leaks, sump pumps, pool equipment or water lines.
The most important add-on for Columbus homes with basements is sump pump coverage. For those in older neighborhoods, water line and sewer line coverage can also be beneficial.
How much can you save with a Columbus home warranty?
The savings from a home warranty depend on the repairs and replacements you need. One major covered breakdown, such as an HVAC or water heater failure, can easily justify the annual cost of a plan.
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau suggests budgeting 1% to 3% of your home’s value annually for repairs — a figure far above what most people spend on a warranty and a few service fees. If you avoid just one large repair, your warranty could pay for itself.
Average repair/replacement costs for covered items
In a city like Columbus, where hot, humid summers and cold winters test HVAC systems, and moderately hard water contributes to wear on water heaters and plumbing, the potential for costly repairs is high. Here's what you'll pay for the most common repairs and replacements in Columbus without a home warranty:
| Item or system | Typical repair cost | Typical replacement cost | Included in basic coverage? |
|---|---|---|---|
| HVAC (furnace/AC) | $130 to $530 | $3,000 to $5,000+ | Yes |
| Water heater | $200 to $1,000 | $800 to $1,700 | Yes |
| Plumbing (main line, frozen pipes) | $150 to $800 | $1,500 to $4,000+ | Yes |
FAQ
How does a home warranty work?
A home warranty is a service contract. You pay a monthly or annual premium and a service call fee when something breaks. The provider arranges and pays for the repair. If it can’t be fixed, the company helps pay for a replacement. Payouts are limited on a per-item and per-contract term basis.
Is a home warranty worth it in Columbus?
A home warranty can be worth it if you want predictable repair costs and peace of mind against expensive breakdowns. It often helps homeowners avoid sudden, large repair bills, especially for systems like HVAC or plumbing.
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. Structural elements like walls, windows and doors are excluded from coverage. These are considered part of your homeowner’s insurance, not a home warranty.
A home warranty in Columbus will not cover the remediation of mold in a damp basement, even if the dampness was caused by a covered sump pump failure. It only covers the repair of the pump itself.
Coverage limits also apply. For instance, an appliance plan may pay only $1,200 toward a washing machine replacement. If the machine costs $2,000, you pay the $800 balance along with the service fee.
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 Columbus, then evaluated which performed best for local residents.
We prioritized real customer experiences in Columbus and also gave extra weight to reviews from Ohio. National reviews were also considered, but with much lower weighting. 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.
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Read Columbus home warranty company reviews
| Company | Customer rating | About | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.0
12,187 reviews
| Offers system, appliance and combination home warranty plans. Service fees start at $100. Monthly fees range from $34.99 to $61.99. All work backed by a 180-day guarantee. Not available in all states. | Get a Quote |
| 4.0
72,892 reviews
| Offers two plans with basic or comprehensive coverage. Plans start at $46.67 per month with an $85 service call fee. Optional coverage for limited roof leaks, pools and spas available. Make a claim online 24/7. | Get a Quote |
| 3.7
108,818 reviews
| Three home warranty plans in 48 states. Unavailable in Alaska or Hawaii. Plans start at $29.99/month with a $125 service fee. No coverage limits on systems; up to $6,000 on appliances. | Get a Quote |
| 4.1
984 reviews
| Multiple home warranty plans. Coverage for home systems and appliances. Optional add-on coverage. Online and phone claim filing. Pricing starts at $39.99 per month. Discounted rate for annual payment. Available nationwide. | Read reviews |
 | 5.0
6 reviews
| Home warranty plans starting at $29.99/month with $100 service fee. Available throughout the U.S. Fast claims processing. Contractor network to complete repairs. $5,000 coverage limit on most items. | Read reviews |
 | 4.3
1,339 reviews
| Coverage starts at $1 a day. Customizable plans. Extensive technician network. Additional property discounts. Set per-claim fees. 60-day workmanship guarantee. Offers month-to-month coverage and longer-term plans. | Get a Quote |
 | 4.0
8,874 reviews
| Offers three appliance and system combination plans. Monthly costs range from $42 per month to $82 per month, with a deductible of $85. Add-on coverage is available. | Get a Quote |
 | 4.2
455 reviews
| Customizes home warranty plans in most states. Plans start 20 days after signing. Offers ability to choose own licensed service technician. Can submit claims via phone or online. Does not cover roof leaks. | Get a Quote |
 | 4.2
2,752 reviews
| Flexible and affordable plans for home systems and appliances. Add-on coverage for water/sewer and electronics. 15,000+ local licensed technicians serve nationwide. File a claim and request service 24/7/365 online or by phone. | Get a Quote |
 | 3.9
2,066 reviews
| Offers home warranties designed for real estate professionals in the home selling process. Costs vary by state but expect to pay around $600 to $700 per year for Platinum coverage. Deductible averages $75. | Read reviews |
 | 3.7
15,948 reviews
| Appliance, system and combination plans available. Plans start at around $45 a month. Roof coverage included for some plans. Special promotions include free extra months on your contract and annual pay discounts. | Get a Quote |
 | 1.9
619 reviews
| Provides appliance and systems warranty coverage. Available throughout the U.S. Customizable plans. Submit claims online or by phone anytime. Technicians arrive in 24 to 48 hours. Portable warranty plans. | Get a Quote |
 | 2.0
132 reviews
| Offers one base plan with coverage for appliances and systems. Additional coverage options available. Three-year contract. Typical $36 to $65 service fee. Unlimited claims for covered repairs. No online claim portal. | Read reviews |
 | 1.8
View profile
| Established in 2018. Serves 26 states. Coverage includes plumbing, electrical, roof leaks and major appliances. Each claim has a $100 service fee. Allows customers to choose their own licensed contractor. | Read reviews |
 | 1.5
2,027 reviews
| A la carte options for customized coverage. Local, licensed technicians complete repairs. Guarantees repairs for one year. 24/7 claims hotline. Appliance coverage is available. Plans start at $7.99 a month. | Read reviews |
 | 1.3
324 reviews
| Offers in-home service for repairs of qualifying appliances. The Service Protection Advantage plan, which provides extended warranties for any GE appliances, is provided through Assurant, Inc. | Read reviews |
 | 1.4
12 reviews
| Serves all of the United States except California. Offers 24/7 365 access to customer service. Service calls have a $50 or $100 deductible. Options to choose a local contractor or technician. | Read reviews |
 | 1.1
346 reviews
| Technicians have an average of 10 years of experience. Available in all 50 states. 25% discount on noncovered appliances and HVAC repairs. Covers systems and appliances regardless of age, make or model. 30-day wait for repairs. | Read reviews |
 | 1.1
109 reviews
| Three base home warranty plans for appliances and systems. 12-month contract term. Licensed and insured technicians. 30-day waiting period before coverage starts. Older appliances covered. 90-day workmanship warranty. | Read reviews |
 | 1.1
4,023 reviews
| Offers two combination plans that cover more than 20 systems and appliances. Pricing starts at $48.33 with deductibles of $75 and $100. Drywall, doorbell and burglar and fire alarms are included in coverage. | Read reviews |
 | 1.1
1,942 reviews
| Offers two plans covering select systems and appliances. Costs start at $87.42, with a standard service call fee of $75. Coverage options vary by location. Add-on coverage is also available. | Read reviews |
 | 1.1
6,703 reviews
| Provides coverage for major systems and appliances. Premiums range from around $19 to $50 per month with an $85 to $125 deductible. Kitchen-only plan and roof leak coverage available. Offers structural warranties for new homes. | Read reviews |
 | 1.2
310 reviews
| Basic coverage includes systems and appliances with monthly costs averaging about $40 per month. Select 7-Star Upgrade coverage or optional add-ons to customize your coverage. Deductibles range between $75 and $100. | Read reviews |
 | 1.0
426 reviews
| Offers coverage for both repairs and maintenance. Three levels of service range in cost from $47 per month to $107 per month. Covers major appliances, systems and maintenance for lawn, cleaning, pest control and more. | Read reviews |
 | 1.0
815 reviews
| Choose from two plans to cover systems and appliances. Available add-ons include roof coverage. Premiums vary by state, but expect to pay about $50 per month for standard coverage, with deductibles from $65 to $125. | Read reviews |
 | 1.2
23 reviews
| Free app offers one live chat session with experts. Free how-to maintenance articles available. Frontdoor Basic, Prime and Premium membership plans. App available nationwide. Frontdoor Premium plan available in select locations. | Read reviews |
 | 1.0
2,271 reviews
| Available in 47 states and Washington, D.C. Guarantees repairs for duration of contract. Covers up to 18 systems and appliances, including electronics like smartphones. Low coverage caps on some systems and appliances. | Read reviews |
 | 1.0
17 reviews
| Serves all of the United States except California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona and New York. $100 deductible on most plans. In-house or local technician options. 24/7 live claim support and four-hour response times. | Read reviews |
 | 1.0
View profile
| Home warranty company based in Addison, Texas. Offers three home warranty plans that real estate agents can purchase for their clients. Provides coverage for all states except Alaska, California, Washington and Wyoming. | Read reviews |
 | 1.0
View profile
| Home warranty company offering three warranty plan options. Additional coverage options available at an additional cost. 24/7 customer service and claim support. Free service transfer available. | Read reviews |
 | No reviews | Offers a variety of home warranty plans for homeowners and landlords. Plans start at $39.99 per month. Network of service providers in most ZIP codes. Offers add-on coverage items. Available in 50 states. | |
 | No reviews | Customizable home warranty plans. Four warranty plans. Pricing ranges from $49 to $79 per month. Covers appliances and home systems. 24/7 customer support. Online customer portal with claim filing. No deductible. | |
 | No reviews | Monthly and annual home system, appliance and electronics plans. Five tiers of home warranty coverage. Option for individual appliance coverage. 31-day waiting period before coverage starts. |
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