Best Home Warranty Companies in South Carolina

We compared 34 companies and chose the top home warranty providers

    • Best overall
      American Home Shield
      3.6(110,727)
    • HVAC coverage
      Old Republic Home Protection
      3.9(2,205)
    • Claims handling
      Regency Total Warranty
      3.8(1,109)
    +2 more
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    Fact-checked by: Jon Bortin

    Best Home Warranty Companies in South Carolina

    We found that American Home Shield is the best home warranty company in South Carolina, largely because of its generous HVAC limits and unlimited refrigerant coverage. South Carolina's sweltering summers mean your air conditioner works overtime, and a breakdown can be both uncomfortable and expensive.

    While home warranty plans in the state typically range from $30 to $110 monthly, having the right protection can save you thousands when your cooling system or appliances need repair.

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    Key insights

    American Home Shield is our top recommendation for South Carolina homeowners due to its unlimited refrigerant and high liability limits for HVAC systems.

    Jump to insight

    The average home warranty cost is $69.51 in South Carolina, with quotes varying from $372 to $1,320 per year.

    Jump to insight

    South Carolina has humid summers; it’s crucial to prioritize plans with robust AC coverage.

    Jump to insight

    Our 4 home warranty company picks in South Carolina

    1. Best overall: American Home Shield
    2. Best HVAC coverage : Old Republic Home Protection
    3. Best claims handling: Regency Total Warranty
    4. Best for quick service: Choice Home Warranty

    Our research team vetted home warranty companies that are rated by hundreds of customers in South Carolina. Read our guide to choose the best home warranty in South Carolina for you by comparing plans, contract lengths and service fees.

    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 South Carolina home warranty company picks

    Learn more about our top picks for the best home warranty companies, based on real, recent reviews from customers in South Carolina on ConsumerAffairs.

    Best overall

    American Home Shield

    American Home Shield
    Plans available
    3
    Monthly premium range
    $29.99 to $89.99
    Service fees
    $100 or $125
    Labor guarantee
    30 days

    American Home Shield is our best overall pick for home warranty companies in South Carolina because of its impressive coverage limits. With a $5,000 cap on HVAC systems in its Platinum plan, homeowners are better protected against the high cost of replacing an air conditioner — a frequent necessity in the state's humid climate.

    We also appreciate that AHS covers unlimited refrigerant, a benefit many competitors restrict to a small allowance per pound.

    Base plans from AHS start at $49.99 a month in South Carolina. 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 ($49.99 or $59.99): Covers 14 major systems, including heating, cooling, electrical and plumbing. This plan has a $5,000 limit per covered HVAC system.
    • ShieldGold ($69.99 or $79.99): 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.
    • ShieldPlatinum ($99.99 or $109.99): 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.

    The premiums above are based on quotes we received for a three-bedroom, two-bathroom home in Charleston. The lower cost plan comes with a higher service fee.

    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
    Pros
    • Platinum plan includes unlimited refrigerant coverage
    • High HVAC limit ($5,000+) even with base plans
    • Covers rust, corrosion and sediment damage
    Cons
    • Gold and Silver plans cap refrigerant at $10 per pound
    • Relatively high service fees

    To understand how American Home Shield performs for South Carolina homeowners, we looked closely at customer reviews. Technicians, punctuality and claims handling received the most positive feedback from local reviewers.

    American Home Shield review breakdown by category

    South Carolina customers report that AHS provides dependable repairs for appliances and HVAC systems, with professional contractors who generally respond quickly. However, some reviews note occasional scheduling delays.

    4x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Claims Handling, Best Coverage, Best Value for Price and Best for Transparency
    Best HVAC coverage

    Old Republic Home Protection

    Old Republic Home Protection
    Plans available
    3
    Monthly premium range
    $50 to $80
    Service fees
    $100 or $125
    Labor guarantee
    None specified

    Old Republic Home Protection is our choice for coverage variety, particularly for its high-value protection on air conditioning. The top-tier plan provides up to $6,500 in liability for AC units, which is one of the most generous limits in the market.

    For South Carolina residents dealing with intense heat, this high-cap offers a significant financial buffer against total system failure.

    Old Republic plans start at $50 per month. All plans are combination plans, meaning coverage includes a selection of both appliances and systems rather than one or the other.

    Service fees are either $100 or $125 — you'll have to decide if you'd rather pay a higher service fee and lower premiums each month or a lower service fee and higher monthly premiums. Contracts range from one to five years.

    • Basic: $50 a month (lower service fee) or $55 (higher fee). Coverage includes 22 basic systems and appliances.
    • Deluxe: $55 or $60, depending on your service fee. Coverage includes everything in the Basic plan plus six additional items.
    • Elite: $75 or $80 (varies by service fee). Coverage includes everything in the Deluxe plan, plus increased plumbing coverage.

    Add-ons and discounts

    • Optional add-ons
      • Second refrigerator: $4.17
      • Septic system: $6.25
      • Roof leak repair: $8.33
      • Well pump: $8.33
      • Pool and spa: $20.00
    • Discounts: First-year decreased rates; seasonal promotions
    Pros
    • Elite Plan includes unlimited refrigerant
    • High coverage limits for appliances
    • $1,000 coverage cap for roof leak add-on
    Cons
    • Basic plans cap refrigerant at low rates
    • Requires pre-approval to use your own contractor

    To understand how Old Republic Home Protection performs for South Carolina homeowners, we looked closely at customer reviews. Technicians, customer service and coverage received the most positive feedback from local reviewers.

    Old Republic Home Protection review breakdown by category

    South Carolina homeowners report that ORHP handles claims professionally and efficiently, with frequent praise for quick contractor dispatch and reliable approvals. While feedback is largely positive, some customers have noted long hold times with customer service, sometimes exceeding 30 minutes.

    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Claims Handling
    Best claims handling

    Regency Total Warranty

    Regency Total Warranty
    Plans available
    2
    Monthly premium range
    $44.99 to $49.99
    Service fees
    $60 to $100
    Labor guarantee
    None specified

    Regency Total Warranty stands out for its personalized claims process. Instead of relying solely on automated algorithms, the company utilizes a review team that considers the context of each claim, often approving repairs that might otherwise be denied.

    This approach is particularly beneficial for complex HVAC issues common in the South, where getting a fair hearing on a claim can save homeowners significant money.

    Regency's two plans offer different degrees of coverage for your home's systems and appliances. Costs start at per month, with a potential savings of $150 per year if you pay annually.

    • EssentialGuard: Covers three home systems and 10 appliances. Starts at $83.95 monthly or $849 annually.
    • TotalGuard: Covers five home systems and 14 appliances. Starts at $91.66 per month or $895 per year.

    Add-ons and discounts

    • Optional add-ons
      • Pools and spas
      • Well pumps
      • Sump pumps
      • Central vacuums
      • Limited roof leaks
      • Septic systems
      • Second refrigerators
      • Stand-alone freezers
      • Septic tank plumbing
    • Discounts: $250 promotion for monthly plan. $300 and 2 months free promotion available for annual plan.
    Pros
    • Prioritizes AC failure as emergency
    • Affordable high-tier plan
    • Low service fees
    Cons
    • Refrigerant coverage varies by contract
    • Some water heater exclusions

    South Carolina reviewers say Regency earns trust through knowledgeable representatives who thoroughly explain coverage options, discounts and the claims process upfront. A small number of reports note frustration with claim response times, requiring customers to contact the company for updates.

    Best for quick service

    Choice Home Warranty

    Choice Home Warranty
    Plans available
    2
    Monthly premium range
    $46.83 to $54.75
    Service fees
    $100
    Labor guarantee
    60 days

    Choice Home Warranty is our pick for quick service thanks to its automated dispatch system. In the peak of a South Carolina summer, waiting days for a technician isn't an option.

    Choice's system is designed to assign contractors rapidly, aiming to minimize the time you spend without air conditioning. While the $3,000 HVAC limit is lower than some, the speed of service is a major asset during a heatwave.

    Basic 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.

    The annual cost of plans ranges from $560 to $660.

    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: Annual price is for 13 months. 5% discount promotion available.
    Pros
    • Automated dispatch system speeds up AC repairs
    • 24/7 customer service
    • Affordable high-tier plan
    Cons
    • Basic plan completely excludes air conditioning
    • HVAC coverage limited to $3,000

    To understand how Choice Home Warranty performs for South Carolina homeowners, we looked closely at customer reviews. Punctuality and speed, technicians and customer service received the most positive feedback from local reviewers.

    Choice Home Warranty review breakdown by category

    South Carolina homeowners say Choice delivers fast claim response times and connects them with skilled contractors who arrive promptly and complete repairs efficiently. However, some customers report extended wait times during peak summer months.

    3x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Claims Handling, Best Coverage and Best for Transparency

    Home Warranties in South Carolina Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    American Home Shield logo
    Old Republic Home Protection logo
    Regency Total Warranty logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Compare plans tailored to your home & budget.

      Homeowners in South Carolina depend on their AC units for most of the year, leading to frequent breakdowns from overuse and high humidity. A home warranty offers a predictable way to handle these inevitable and costly repairs.

      Key insights

      Ensure your air conditioning is covered in your plan.

      Jump to insight

      In South Carolina, the average home warranty runs about $69.51 per month, and annual premiums range from $372 to $1,320. Service fees are typically $75 to $150.

      Jump to insight

      South Carolina has thorough regulations for home warranty companies, including a cancellation period requirement.

      Jump to insight
      charleston south carolina skyline

      How to choose a home warranty in South Carolina

      To find the best home warranty in South Carolina, determine your needs, compare costs and review sample contracts and customer reviews. Here's how to approach your search:

      1. Decide what coverage you need

      Your first step in searching for a home warranty should be deciding what coverage you need. To assess your coverage needs, examine your home's appliances and systems and consider how critical they are to you.

      If parts of your home are aging or beginning to fail more often, it makes sense to ensure your home warranty plan covers those items. On the other hand, if you recently replaced systems or appliances in your home and they're still under a manufacturer's warranty, additional coverage for them probably shouldn't be a priority.

      Ultimately, think about your home's most essential components and pick a home warranty plan that covers them.

      2. Compare costs

      Don't just pick the cheapest plan. Total value matters, so check monthly premiums, service fees and coverage caps. Service call fees typically range from $75 to $125 each visit. These can add up if you file multiple claims.

      When comparing costs in South Carolina, prioritize the plan that offers the best AC coverage for the money. A low-cost plan with a minimal payout for HVAC repairs offers false savings in a state where your AC is your home's hardest-working system.

      Assess the limits for each covered item and the cost of any add-ons you need, such as roof leak or pool coverage.

      3. Review sample contracts

      Always read sample contracts to make sure you understand exclusions and requirements. Look for details on waiting periods, the claims process and annual payout caps.

      Read the contract's maintenance requirements for your HVAC system. In a humid climate, providers will expect you to keep drain lines clear and change filters regularly. If you live on the coast, check for a corrosion exclusion clause.

      Also, keep an eye out for what exactly is covered. Glen in Columbia was disappointed to learn that his coverage didn't cover everything he thought it did. "When something happened to the compressor in our AC, they covered the parts but we still had to pay for the labor."

      4. Read customer reviews

      Check feedback from South Carolinians and Southeast coastal homeowners. Look for patterns in complaints or praise about summer AC service, dispatch speed and technician quality.

      Search for reviews from other South Carolinians or residents of the coastal Southeast. Pay close attention to feedback on summer service calls for AC units.

      For example, Carl in Bonneau told us about his poor experience trying to get an AC unit repaired. "They kept telling me, 'You're gonna have to wait.' 90 degrees, I can't wait. I live in South Carolina. It's not like I live in Pennsylvania."

      » MORE: How to pick your home warranty

      How much does a home warranty cost in South Carolina?

      A home warranty in South Carolina costs $69.51 per month on average. Home warranty premiums generally range from $30.99 to $109.99 per month, depending on the plan. The average cost of a home warranty in South Carolina is 2.7% higher than the national average.

      Cost range by home warranty provider

      ProviderMonthly premium range*Service call fee
      american home shield logo$49.99 to $109.99$100 or $125
      regency total warranty logo$44.99 to $49.99$60 to $100
      old republic home protection logo$50 to $80$100 or $125
      choice home warranty logo$46.83 to $54.75$100

      *Data updated January 2026 

      Monthly or annual premiums

      Most providers allow you to pay monthly to help spread expenses out, or annually for a discount. The total you'll pay will depend on the plan you select and any additional options you add.

      Service call fees

      With each claim, you'll pay a service call fee. This is comparable to a per-claim deductible for the technician's visit and diagnosis. Service fees usually cost between $75 and $150, depending on your provider and plan.

      Add-on coverage

      Many home warranty companies offer add-ons for specific items like pools or well pumps. Expect to pay $2 to $25 per month for each add-on you select.

      Other home warranty cost factors

      Prices can vary significantly by home size, level of coverage, geographic location, and eligibility for discounts.

      • Home size and type: Large homes often need more coverage, leading to higher premiums. Condo owners may pay less.
      • Level of coverage: Cheaper home warranty plans usually mean less protection. Comprehensive combo plans cost more.
      • Location: Home warranty prices in South Carolina are primarily influenced by the long, demanding cooling season and the high number of AC-related claims.
      • Discounts: Multiyear contracts, annual payments and seasonal offers can help lower your price.

      Example: total annual home warranty costs

      • Appliances and cooling plan ($45 per month): $540 per year
      • Add-on for pool equipment ($18 per month): $216 per year
      • Two claims ($80 service fee): $160
      • Total: $916 per year

      What does a South Carolina home warranty cover?

      Home warranty plans in South Carolina are available in three main types: appliance-only plans, system-only plans and combo plans.

      • Appliance plans typically protect major kitchen and laundry appliances.
      • Systems plans cover home infrastructure like heating, plumbing, electrical, water heaters and ductwork, which are vital for comfort and safety.
      • Combo plans combine both, protecting your most important systems and appliances under one policy. They also usually have higher coverage caps.

      Add-on coverage is available for specialty items. Septic system protection is crucial for many suburban and rural homes. Pool coverage is also very popular. For coastal residents, a plan that doesn't exclude salt air corrosion is valuable.

      » MORE: What to do when your home warranty claim is denied

      Reviewers' experience filing home warranty claims in South Carolina

      • Mimi in Columbia has stuck with Choice for years because it helps manage a house full of mixed-age appliances. She admitted the monthly fee makes her pause, but said, “Sometimes they take care of the repairs without an issue.” When something’s too old to fix, gift cards help soften the blow.

        Key takeaway: While monthly costs can sting, the repairs or gift cards really pay off

      • Jason in Greenville filed an AC claim when the unit quit. “While the communication leading up to the repair could have been better… When they eventually came, they fixed the problem efficiently.” Since the weather was cooling, the wait felt easier, and the quick fix made the outcome feel worth it.

        Key takeaway: While you may be getting slow updates, the repair can still be quick

      • Amanda in Boiling Springs expected peace of mind, not a reimbursement chase. She warned, "You have to do all the legwork for your repair" and pay upfront, then wait. Her check sat in the “mail center” with a 6 to 8 week timeline, while she also had to hunt down her own technicians.

        Key takeaway: You may wait weeks for reimbursement and have to source your own techs

      Home warranty regulations in South Carolina

      South Carolina's home warranty laws are more thorough than those in many other states. As a result of these laws, home warranty companies in South Carolina must:

      • Register with the government.
      • Meet certain guidelines for financial security.
      • Write contracts in clear, understandable language.
      • Disclose coverage limits and exclusions in your contract.
      • Outline the process for making a claim in your contract.
      • Allow you to cancel your contract up to 20 days after it was mailed to you or 10 days after signing.

      If you have a dispute with your home warranty company, contact South Carolina's Department of Insurance by phone or use the online SC DOI contact form.

      Regulations for new construction

      If your home was recently built, other South Carolina laws might also affect your search for a home warranty.

      The South Carolina Homebuyers Protection and Warranty Act requires builders in the state to provide warranties for new construction. Plus, new systems and appliances usually have manufacturers' warranties.

      Check into these options before purchasing another warranty plan. There's little benefit to having overlapping coverages. So, depending on your existing coverage, you might only need a few items covered by a specialty plan, or you might not want a home warranty at all.

      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 premium for coverage. When something breaks, you file a claim and pay a service fee. 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 South Carolina?

      A home warranty can be worth it in South Carolina, but it depends on your personal circumstances.

      If you don’t think you could handle the cost of fixing a major home appliance or system, a home warranty might be a worthwhile investment. A home warranty can even save you a lot of money in the long run if you end up needing significant repairs or a full replacement.

      Many homeowners simply enjoy the peace of mind a home warranty provides. However, if nothing goes wrong in your home, your home warranty may be of little use, and small repairs may not be enough to offset what you’ll spend on monthly payments and service fees. Think about your financial situation and risk level to decide if a home warranty is right for you.

      What does a home warranty not cover?

      Most home warranty contracts exclude preexisting conditions, improper installation, cosmetic damage and items still under a manufacturer’s warranty. Routine maintenance, landscaping and structural elements like walls or windows are also not covered.

      A home warranty in South Carolina will not cover damage from storm surge or flooding, which is a key risk for the state's Lowcountry and coastal areas. This is covered by separate flood insurance.

      Coverage limits also apply. For example, your plan might cap an HVAC repair at $1,500 while the job costs $2,250. After your service fee, you’d still owe $750 out of pocket.

      Can I transfer my home warranty?

      Yes, in many cases, you can transfer your home warranty to a second owner. This can actually be a selling point for a potential homebuyer.

      How long do home warranties last?

      Home warranty contracts are typically a year long, but some companies offer discounts when you purchase a multiyear plan. Shorter-term contracts are also available, and you may be able to get a plan that’s functionally a month-to-month commitment if the provider has a lenient cancellation policy.

      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 South Carolina, then evaluated which performed best for local residents.

      Here's how we scored each company:

      • HVAC coverage and caps (40%): South Carolina's hot, humid weather makes HVAC issues more common and urgent. We scored companies with high annual caps for HVAC ($5,000 or higher) and unlimited refrigerant coverage much higher than those with lower caps ($3,000 or lower) and caps on refrigerant of $10 to $20 per pound.
      • Local satisfaction rate (35%): Reviews from real customers in South Carolina are worth more than a company's nationwide reputation. If a company has a poor technician network locally or frequently denies South Carolina homeowners' most frequent complaints, we capture that in our review analysis.
      • Cost (10%): To compare apples to apples, we looked at the lowest-priced comprehensive plan each company offers in South Carolina. We also considered the lowest service fees each company offers.
      • National satisfaction rate (10%): To get a broader picture of how each company performs in specific aspects, we looked at national reviews. In this way, we could see who, overall, has the highest ratings for these seven satisfaction drivers:
        • Technician quality
        • Customer service
        • Claims handling
        • Punctuality and speed
        • Coverage
        • Value
        • Refunds and payouts
      • Additional benefits (5%): We rounded out our analysis by considering how many plans and service fee options each company offers (flexibility), labor guarantees and the availability of extra benefits like roof leak repair coverage and HVAC tuneups.

      Note: Each superlative emphasizes certain factors more than others. For example, the "Best value" superlative weights cost at 20%, while "Best claims handling" gives more weight to reviews that mention the claims process and customer service.

      Guide sources

      ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this guide include:

      1. South Carolina Legislature, “CHAPTER 78 - Service Contracts.” Accessed Jan. 27, 2026.
      2. South Carolina Department of Insurance, “Service Contract Provider Q & A.” Accessed Jan. 27, 2026.
      3. South Carolina Legislature, “Bill 470.” Accessed Jan. 27, 2026.

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