Best 7 Home Warranty Companies in Charleston, SC
- Fact Checked
- Updated 2024-06-22 00:00:00
South Carolina homes are exposed to all kinds of weather, including hot, humid summers. It's important in conditions like these that your air conditioner is running smoothly. A home warranty plan covers major systems and appliances, allowing you to save money on repairs and replacements. We've assembled a list of the top home warranty companies in Charleston, South Carolina, to help you choose a provider.
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
- 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
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
- 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
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
- 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
7 Best Home Warranty Companies in Charleston
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
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
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
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
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
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
Cinch Home Services
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Pros
- Offers home insurance deductible of $500
- Extends a long 180-day workmanship guarantee
- Provides generous $10,000 aggregate coverage limit
Cons
- Charges high service fees of $75-$150
- Doesn’t allow customers to choose their own technician
- Isn’t available in Hawaii or Alaska
45 Years in Business
BBB Rating:B
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 Charleston
- Average Max Temperature:74°F
- Average Min Temperature:59°F
- Average Annual Snowfall:0.1”
- Homeownership Rate:67%
- Median Home Size:2,161 sqft
- Median Home Price:$525,534
Are Home Warranties Worth It for Charleston Residents?
Home warranties are beneficial for Charleston residents. Charleston summers are very hot, which makes it extremely important that your air conditioner works well. However, over time this system can malfunction from heavy use.
Charleston 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 anywhere from $2,500–$8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, come in at only $644–$737 annually, based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies nationwide.
Charleston's heavy rain can also affect your roof. Some home warranty companies offer limited roof-leak protection to financially assist with repair.
Lastly, home warranties connect you with reliable service providers. Reputable home warranty companies vet every service provider they use. 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
These important factors can help you determine the best home warranty plan for your needs.
Cost
After getting 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home, we determined that home warranties cost roughly $53–$62 monthly. You'll also pay a service call fee every time you file a claim. Service call fees typically range from $65–$125 per claim. A basic home warranty will be more affordable than a comprehensive one. Appliance plans are typically less costly than home systems coverage plans. Most plans give you the option of getting add-on coverage options for an additional monthly fee. Consider your specific needs before committing to a plan.
Coverage
You can look for a home warranty plan that covers specific appliances and systems. Determine whether you need coverage for major systems (like air conditioning), specific appliances, or for both. Then ask your provider about its options for customized coverage. The following 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
Most home warranties only cover normal wear and tear, which excludes improper installation and preexisting conditions. Additionally, most policies will exclude cosmetic issues or appliance components, defects, theft, or routine maintenance. A provider will outline its exclusions and limitations in its service contract. Thoroughly read your contract to fully understand the terms and conditions of your plan.
Provider Reputation
You should also consider provider reputation. You can also read customer reviews on sites like Google Reviews, Best Company, and Trustpilot. Ratings and reviews can show you how providers handle claims and customer service. Check with the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs to verify that a provider holds a valid state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's service provider network. Ask your company how and where it sources technicians. A reputable company should use licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. Choose a provider that mentions service contractors you're familiar with. Homeowners in rural areas may prefer home warranty policies that allow you to choose your technician. There may not be any in-network service providers in these areas, so you'll want the option to choose your own.
Frequently Asked Questions about Home Warranty in Charleston
No, Charleston does not require home warranties. However, we still recommend purchasing a home warranty to help you maintain a budget to cover expensive system and appliance breakdowns. Home warranty providers also help you save time by sourcing reputable technicians themselves.
Preexisting conditions are breakdowns or issues experienced by a home appliance or system before your warranty coverage starts. Providers typically don't cover preexisting conditions. Try to purchase a home warranty policy while all your systems and appliances are still in working order to ensure full protection.
Charleston's best home warranty provider depends on your specific needs. Liberty Home Guard is a solid choice if you need unique coverage. Consider American Home Shield for comprehensive coverage limits.
Yes, home warranties cover many types of home items besides common systems and appliances. For example, home warranties cover pools and spas, septic systems, stand-alone freezers, well pumps, sump pumps, and more. Providers normally cover these items as add-ons. Check your provider's sample contract to see what add-ons are available.
Most home warranty companies have a 30-day waiting period before coverage begins. This is to know that any appliance and system breakdowns are from normal wear and tear rather than a preexisting condition. Home warranty providers won't cover an already broken item.
Submitting a claim to your home warranty provider is straightforward. When one of your appliances or systems has an issue, contact your provider and describe the problem. You can typically do so on the phone or online. From there, your provider will send a contractor to your home, and you'll pay the service fee. The contractor will then assess and fix the issue.
Homeowners in Charleston can ensure home warranty coverage by taking proper care of their systems and appliances. It may also be 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
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