American Home Shield vs Liberty Home Guard vs Cinch Home Services — Our Pick: American Home Shield
Updated for 2025 Home warranties • Systems & appliances First-time buyers & long-time homeowners

American Home Shield vs Liberty Home Guard vs Cinch Home Services

We compared coverage, claim process, contractor networks, and overall value. Our pick: American Home Shield for its broad coverage options, long track record, and strong all-around protection.

At a glance

Liberty Home Guard

Most customizable

Highly customizable coverage with three base plans and one of the largest catalogs of add-ons in the industry.

  • Appliance-only, systems-only, and total home plans to match different needs.
  • 40+ optional add-ons for items like pool & spa, sump pump, electronics, and more.
  • Add-ons raise costs quickly; coverage caps on some items may be lower than rivals.
Visit Liberty Home Guard

Cinch Home Services

Best long-term value

Long-running provider with 45+ years of experience, clear plan structure, and a strong reputation for honoring claims.

  • Appliance, systems, and complete home plans to cover core household needs.
  • 45+ years of home warranty experience and strong focus on customer service.
  • Workmanship guarantee on covered repairs (often up to 180 days; check your contract).
Visit Cinch Home Services
What to compare American Home Shield Liberty Home Guard Cinch Home Services
Primary strength Best overall: broad coverage + established brand Highly customizable plans and add-ons Long track record with solid, straightforward coverage
Plan types Three main plans: systems, systems + appliances, and premium combined coverage Appliance-only, systems-only, and total home plans Appliance, systems, and complete home plans
Coverage highlights Covers major components of HVAC, plumbing, electrical, kitchen and laundry appliances Competitive limits on many systems and appliances; comprehensive total-home option Strong core coverage on key systems and appliances, focused on everyday breakdowns
Notable extras Optional coverage for items like electronics and additional systems in many markets Large add-on list including pool & spa, well pump, septic pumping, maintenance services and more Some plans include perks like discounts, preventive maintenance options, or partner benefits
Digital tools & apps Online account and 24/7 claim submission Modern customer portal and mobile app for filing and tracking claims Online portal, phone, and app-based support through select channels
Workmanship guarantee Workmanship guarantee period typically around 30 days (varies by plan and state) Workmanship guarantee often around 60 days (check your contract for details) Industry-leading workmanship guarantee window on covered repairs in many markets
Service call fee options You choose your service-fee tier; monthly price adjusts accordingly Service fee falls within a set range; amount may depend on quote and promotions Fixed trade-service call fee that varies by plan and location
Support & claims 24/7 claim submissions; AHS assigns a local pro from its network 24/7 claim submissions; app and live chat help track claim status 24/7/365 service requests with phone and online claim options
Cancellation & refunds Generally offers prorated refunds minus a small fee; varies by state Prorated refunds available; terms and fees depend on your contract Prorated refunds available; some fees may be non-refundable
Best for Homeowners who want the most established name and balanced, all-around coverage Homeowners who want to customize coverage heavily with many add-on choices Budget-conscious homeowners who value a simple plan menu from a long-running brand
Editorial stance: Want the most complete, well-rounded package? Choose American Home Shield. Want to fine-tune coverage with lots of add-ons? Liberty Home Guard is built for that. Prefer a simple, time-tested option from a provider with decades of experience? Cinch Home Services is a strong fit. Always review the sample contract for your state before you buy—coverage details, limits, and fees change over time.

Pick by use-case

Best overall protection

Great balance of systems & appliance coverage, flexible service fees, and an extensive contractor network.

Get American Home Shield

Most customizable coverage

Liberty Home Guard is ideal if you want to tailor your plan with dozens of add-ons and niche coverage options.

See Liberty Home Guard

Best long-running provider

Cinch Home Services combines clear plan options with 45+ years of experience and a strong workmanship guarantee.

See Cinch Home Services

FAQ

What is a home warranty?
A home warranty is a service contract that helps pay to repair or replace covered home systems and appliances when they break down from normal wear and tear. Instead of finding your own technician and paying the full bill, you file a claim with the warranty company and pay a set service fee per visit.
Is a home warranty the same as homeowners insurance?
No. Homeowners insurance typically covers damage from sudden events such as fire, storms, or theft. A home warranty focuses on breakdowns of covered systems and appliances from everyday use, like an air conditioner that stops working or a dishwasher that fails. Many homeowners carry both.
Are home warranties worth it?
They can be, especially if you prefer predictable costs and don’t want to shop for contractors every time something breaks. A single major repair can cost as much as a full year (or more) of home warranty premiums. However, plans have limits and exclusions, so it’s important to read the contract and understand what is and isn’t covered.
Which company should I choose?
Pick American Home Shield if you want the most balanced, big-name provider with strong overall coverage. Choose Liberty Home Guard if you want to customize coverage heavily with many add-ons. Go with Cinch Home Services if you like simple plan choices from a long-running provider with a strong workmanship guarantee. For all three, compare quotes, coverage limits, and sample contracts before deciding.

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