Best 6 Home Warranty Companies in Bakersfield, CA
- Fact Checked
- Updated 2024-06-22 00:00:00
Owning a home in California can be expensive. Not only that, but many cities in the Golden State see days of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. To combat extreme heat, many homeowners rely on air conditioning.
According to the American Housing Survey, 10.7 million California homes have primary AC, such as central air. If your central AC breaks down, a home warranty can help handle the problem. Below is our list of the top home warranty companies in Bakersfield, California.
6 Best Home Warranty Companies in Bakersfield
Brands are algorithmically curated from a database of local service providers near you. We require a minimum number of Google reviews and average ratings for provider inclusion.
![American Home Shield Logo](https://whoapro.io/cdn-cgi/image/width=384,quality=75,format=avif/https://thisoldhouse.jppadmin.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/05/American-Home-Shield-Logo-2022.png)
American Home Shield
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Pros
- Offers generous coverage caps
- Allows customers to build their own plans
- Provides the option to choose the service fee you want to pay
- Features broad coverage on up to 33 appliances and systems
Cons
- Doesn’t let customers choose their own technician
- Offers limited add-on options
52 Years in Business
BBB Rating:B
![Liberty Home Guard Logo](https://whoapro.io/cdn-cgi/image/width=384,quality=75,format=avif/https://thisoldhouse.jppadmin.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/05/LHG-LOGO-2022-original.png)
Liberty Home Guard
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Pros
- Holds high ratings among customer service reviews
- Covers repairs with a 60-day workmanship guarantee
- Offers an extensive list of 30+ add-on coverages
- Provides an easy claims process
Cons
- Lacks transparency on service call fee pricing
- Excludes coverage for known or unknown pre-existing conditions
6 Years in Business
BBB Rating:A+
![Select Home Warranty Logo](https://whoapro.io/cdn-cgi/image/width=384,quality=75,format=avif/https://thisoldhouse.jppadmin.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/05/Select-Home-Warranty-250x125-1.png)
Select Home Warranty
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Pros
- Provides low service fees compared to other home warranty providers
- Includes two extra months of coverage in annual signup
- Has an appliance-only, systems-only, and combo plan option
Cons
- Has a $75 cancellation fee
- Low coverage caps
11 Years in Business
BBB Rating:B-
![AFC Home Warranty Logo](https://whoapro.io/cdn-cgi/image/width=384,quality=75,format=avif/https://d37zyl8vccu3u7.cloudfront.net/images/partners/afc-home-warranty.webp)
AFC Home Warranty
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Pros
- Provides an unlimited workmanship guarantee
- Offers generous appliance coverage limits
- Allows you to choose your own contractor
Cons
- Limits coverage limits for older items based on depreciated value
- Requires you to file a claim immediately after discovering an issue
14 Years in Business
BBB Rating:B
![First American Home Warranty Logo](https://whoapro.io/cdn-cgi/image/width=384,quality=75,format=avif/https://thisoldhouse.jppadmin.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/05/logo_fahw.png)
First American Home Warranty
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Pros
- Allows you to choose your service call fee
- Doesn’t have a coverage cap on heating, cooling, or ductwork
- Accepts 24/7 service calls
- Offers replacement of some covered items that are too damaged to repair
Cons
- Doesn’t let customers choose their own contractor
- Charges higher for coverage compared to other providers
39 Years in Business
BBB Rating:B
![2-10 Home Buyers Warranty Logo](https://whoapro.io/cdn-cgi/image/width=384,quality=75,format=avif/https://thisoldhouse.jppadmin.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/05/2-10-Home-Buyers-Warranty-Logo-2022.png)
2-10 Home Buyers Warranty
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Pros
- Offers a $25,000 annual coverage cap
- Pairs plans with a plan-length workmanship guarantee
- Offers unique perks such as color matching appliance replacements
Cons
- Charges a monthly processing fee if you choose monthly premiums
- Excludes washer and dryer coverage from most plans
39 Years in Business
BBB Rating:A-
BBB ratings are accurate as of August 2023. Cost figures are based on information available on provider websites and are accurate as of August 2023. Request a quote from each company to see prices in your area.
Facts about Bakersfield
- Average Max Temperature:75°F
- Average Min Temperature:54°F
- Average Annual Snowfall:0.1”
- Homeownership Rate:58%
- Median Home Size:1,737 sqft
- Median Home Price:$378,612
Are Home Warranties Worth It for Bakersfield Residents?
Yes, home warranties are valuable for Bakersfield residents. Bakersfield experiences hot summers, and you probably use your air conditioner constantly during warmer months. Your air conditioning system may malfunction over time from heavy use.
Bakersfield has fairly mild winters, but it's still important to make sure your heating works when needed. The cost of replacing your HVAC system can range between $2,500 and $8,000. Home warranties are comparatively cheaper at only $644–$737 per year, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies nationwide.
Even the infrequent rain in Bakersfield can damage your roof. The cost of repairs will be lower if you have a home warranty with roof-leak protection.
Lastly, home warranties connect you with reliable service providers. Reputable home warranty companies vet all their service providers. If you're busy with work or other priorities, investing in a home warranty ensures you have access to trustworthy technicians.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Consider these important factors when choosing the best home warranty plan for you.
Cost
After getting 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home, we determined that home warranties cost an average of $53–$62 a month. You'll also pay a service call fee whenever you file a claim. These fees typically range from $65–$125 per claim. A basic home warranty is more affordable than a comprehensive one. Home systems coverage plans tend to cost more than appliance plans. With most plans, you can get add-on coverage options for an additional monthly fee. Consider your specific needs before purchasing a plan.
Coverage
You can often find home warranty plans that cover specific systems and appliances. Determine whether you want coverage for major systems (such as air conditioning), specific appliances, or for both. Then ask your provider what its options are for customized coverage. Here is a list of common systems coverage:
- Air conditioner
- Central vacuum
- Ductwork
- Electrical
- Heating
- Plumbing
- Water heater
- Built-in microwaves
- Clothes washers and dryers
- Dishwashers
- Garbage disposals
- Ovens
- Refrigerators
- Stovetops
Exclusions
Typically, home warranties only cover normal wear and tear. They don't cover preexisting conditions or improper installation. Generally, appliance components or cosmetic issues, routine maintenance, theft, or defects are also not covered. Providers will outline limitations and exclusions in their service contracts. Thoroughly read your contract to ensure you understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Provider reputation is another important factor to consider. You can browse real customer reviews on sites like Best Company, Google Reviews, and Trustpilot or check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Ratings and reviews can give you insight into how a company handles customer service and claims. Check with the California Department of Consumer Affairs to verify the status of a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's service provider network. Reliable home warranty companies source licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests. We suggest asking a provider how and where it sources technicians. Choose a provider that mentions service contractors you're familiar with. Those who live in rural areas should consider a home warranty policy that lets them choose their technician. In-network service providers may not be available in your area, so you want the option to source your own.
Frequently Asked Questions about Home Warranty in Bakersfield
No, Bakersfield does not require home warranties. However, we still recommend purchasing a home warranty to help you maintain a budget to cover expensive appliance and system breakdowns. Home warranty companies also help you save time by sourcing reputable technicians themselves.
Preexisting conditions are breakdowns or issues that a home appliance or system experienced before coverage began. Most providers don't cover preexisting conditions. You should purchase a home warranty policy when all your systems and appliances still work for full protection.
The best home warranty in Bakersfield depends on your specific needs. Liberty Home Guard is a solid choice if you require unique coverage. Consider American Home Shield if you're looking for comprehensive coverage limits.
Yes, you can get a home warranty that covers home items beyond common systems and appliances. For instance, some home warranty policies might cover sump pumps, pools and spas, well pumps, septic systems, or stand-alone freezers. These are usually considered add-ons. Check with a company representative to determine what add-ons it has available.
Most home warranty providers have a waiting period of 30 days before coverage begins. This is to make sure any system and appliance breakdowns are caused by normal wear and tear rather than preexisting conditions. Home warranty providers won't cover an already broken item.
Homeowners insurance protects against the cost of repairs following events such as from natural disasters and accidents. In contrast, a home warranty covers repairing and replacing household systems and appliances that stop working due to normal wear and tear.
Homeowners in Bakersfield can ensure coverage under their home warranty by keeping up with maintenance on their systems and appliances. You may also find it useful to keep track of how old they are. Since home warranties only cover normal wear and tear, you'll likely get more out of a home warranty for older appliances.
More Home Warranty Resources
Sources
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at [email protected].
Explore Useful Articles On Home Warranty
What Is a Home Warranty?
Dana Getz-April 26, 2024
How to Buy a Home Warranty (2024 Guide)
Dana Getz-April 2, 2024
Home Warranty Regulation
Dana Getz-April 2, 2024
Related Cost Guides
How Much Does a Home Warranty Cost? (June 2024)
Stephanie Koncewicz-May 15, 2024
What Does a Home Warranty Cost a Seller?
Dana Getz-April 3, 2024