Expert Advice On Improving Your Home

6 Best Home Warranty Companies in National City, CA

Written By David Cusick

Last Updated February 2024

National City offers homeowners some beautiful living options. However, unexpected repair and replacement costs on your home’s appliances and systems can get quite costly. A home warranty can give you the peace of mind you need and safeguard your bank account from unexpected expenses by covering your home’s major systems and appliances.

Choosing the best home warranty on the market can be a challenge because of the many options available. If you're frustrated with trying to compare them all, keep reading for our guide to the top home warranty providers in National City.

Our Recommended Providers

Best for Customization
4.5/5
  • Holds high ratings among customer service reviews
  • Covers repairs with a 60-day workmanship guarantee
  • Offers an extensive list of 30+ add-on coverages
Best For First Time Homeowners
4.2/5
  • The oldest and most trusted company in the industry
  • Allows customers to build their own plans
  • Ability to choose the service fee you want to pay
Best Claims Acceptance
4.1/5
  • Comprehensive coverage
  • Decent coverage caps
  • No exclusions for older homes

The 6 Best Home Warranty Companies in National City

Choice Home Warranty

Over 10 years of experience

24/7 customer service team

Home inspections aren’t required

90-day repair guarantee

Plans aren’t customizable

Customers can’t choose their own contractor

Not available in washington

In National City, Choice Home Warranty is the best overall home warranty. Choice is a home warranty company with 15 years of experience in the industry, and it has established itself as one of the best providers in the business. Choice has established itself as a company with very high coverage caps and simple-to-understand service contracts. It also has great customer service, professional contractors, and lower out-of-pocket costs compared to other home warranties. Choice has 2 plans for you to decide between.

There are 2 home warranty plans from Choice Home Warranty: Basic Plan and Total Plan. The coverage limits from Choice are around $3,000. The service fees are an affordable $85, which is less than other providers in the National City area.

To receive a free quote from Choice Home Warranty, you can fill out this online form or call 929-400-6164. For more information, read our detailed review of Choice Home Warranty.

Basic Plan

Total Plan

Service fee: $85.00 Monthly cost: $45.00
Items covered: Ceiling fan , Cooktop exhaust , Dishwasher , Disposal , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door opener , Heating system , Oven , Microwave , Plumbing system , Toilet , Water heater Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Septic , Well pump , Roof leaking , Septic tank , Sump pump , Vacuum , Stand-alone freezer
Service fee: $85.00 Monthly cost: $53.33
Items covered: Ceiling fan , Cooktop exhaust , Dishwasher , Disposal , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door opener , Heating system , Oven , Microwave , Plumbing system , Toilet , Water heater , AC , Washer , Dryer , Refrigerator Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Septic , Well pump , Roof leaking , Septic tank , Sump pump , Vacuum , Stand-alone freezer

Select Home Warranty

Low service fees compared to other home warranty providers

Two months of free coverage

Has an appliance-only, systems-only, and combo plan option

90-day repair guarantee

Has a $75 cancellation fee

Low coverage caps

In National City, Select Home Warranty is the most cost-effective home warranty. Select is a home warranty company with 11 years of experience in the industry, and it has established itself as one of the best providers in the business. Select has established itself as a company with a highly affordable service fee and free roof coverage upon purchase of a policy plan. It also has an extensive network of highly trained professionals all over the country who are experts in home maintenance. Select has 3 plans for you to decide between.

There are 3 home warranty plans from Select Home Warranty: Bronze Care Plan, Gold Care Plan, and Platinum Care Plan. The coverage limits from Select are around $2,000. The service fees are a reasonable $60, which is less than other providers in the National City area.

To receive a free quote from Select Home Warranty, you can fill out this online form or call 888-370-3953. For more information, read our detailed review of Select Home Warranty.

Bronze Care Plan

Gold Care Plan

Platinum Care Plan

Service fee: $60.00 Monthly cost: $57.67
Items covered: Disposal , Dishwasher , Dryer , Microwave , Oven , Refrigerator , Washer Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Septic , Sprinkler , Stand-alone freezer , Vacuum , Well pump , Sump pump , Roof leaks
Service fee: $60.00 Monthly cost: $57.67
Items covered: Air Conditioner , Ductwork , Electrical , Heating system , Plumbing , Water heater Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Septic , Sprinkler , Stand-alone freezer , Vacuum , Well pump , Sump pump , Roof leaks
Service fee: $60.00 Monthly cost: $62.08
Items covered: Disposal , Dishwasher , Dryer , Microwave , Oven , Refrigerator , Washer , Air conditioner , Ductwork , Electrical , Heating system , Plumbing , Water heater , Ceiling fan , Garage door , Plumbing stoppages Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Septic , Sprinkler , Stand-alone freezer , Vacuum , Well pump , Sump pump , Roof leaks

American Home Shield

The oldest and most trusted company in the industry

Allows customers to build their own plans

Ability to choose the service fee you want to pay

Broad coverage on up to 33 appliances and systems

Doesn’t let customers choose their own technician

Doesn’t provide coverage in alaska

In National City, American Home Shield is the most customizable home warranty. AHS is a home warranty company with 26 years of experience in the industry, and it has established itself as one of the best providers in the business. AHS has established itself as a company with the ability to customize your plan with the coverages that work specifically for your home. It also has a remarkably low claim denial rate in comparison to other home warranty companies. AHS has 3 plans for you to decide between.

There are 3 home warranty plans from American Home Shield: ShieldSilver, ShieldGold, and ShieldPlatinum. The coverage limits from AHS are around $2,500. The service fees are customizable and range from $75 to $125, which is less than other providers in the National City area.

To receive a free quote from American Home Shield, you can fill out this online form or call 888-365-2839. For more information, read our detailed review of American Home Shield.

ShieldSilver

ShieldGold

ShieldPlatinum

Service fee: $75.00 - $125.00 Monthly cost: $29.27 - $44.27
Items covered: Air Conditioner , Alarm , Attic fans , Bath exhaust fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust , Disposal , Doorbell , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door , Heating system , Locksmith , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Toilet , Water dispenser , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Pool , Spa , PC , TV , Septic , Well pump
Service fee: $75.00 - $125.00 Monthly cost: $39.27 - $54.27
Items covered: Air conditioner , Alarm , Attic fans , Bath exhaust fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust , Dishwasher , Doorbell , Dryer , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door , Heating system , Microwave , Oven , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Refrigerator , Toilet , Trash compactor , Washer , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Pool , Spa , PC , TV , Septic , Well pump
Service fee: $75.00 - $125.00 Monthly cost: $59.27 - $74.27
Items covered: Air conditioner , Alarm , Attic fans , Bath exhaust fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust , Dishwasher , Disposal , Doorbell , Dryer , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door , Heating system , Locksmith , Microwave , Oven , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Refrigerator , Roof leaks , Toilet , Trash compactor , Washer , Water dispenser , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Pool , Spa , PC , TV , Septic , Well pump

First American Home Warranty

Established company with a bbb accreditation

Doesn’t have a coverage cap on heating, cooling, or ductwork

24/7 service calls available

Offers replacement of some covered items that are too damaged to repair

Doesn’t let customers choose their own contractor

According to some customer reviews, the technical jargon in contracts is confusing

In National City, First American Home Warranty is the best home warranty for appliance coverage. First American is a home warranty company with 39 years of experience in the industry, and it has established itself as one of the best providers in the business. First American has established itself as a company with very affordable and comprehensive appliance coverage. It also has a unique add-on alongside common ones called the First Class Upgrade, which covers fees associated with the use of lifting equipment, up to $250 per local building permits, haul away services, and appliances and systems that have been insufficiently installed or modified. First American has 2 plans for you to decide between.

There are 2 home warranty plans from First American Home Warranty: Basic Plan and Premier Plan. The coverage limits from First American are around $1,500. The service fees are a reasonable $85, which is less than other providers in the National City area.

To receive a free quote from First American Home Warranty, you can fill out this online form or call 833-204-7164. For more information, read our detailed review of First American Home Warranty.

Basic Plan

Premier Plan

Service fee: $85.00 Monthly cost: $38.00
Items covered: Attic fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust fan , Dishwasher , Disposal , Dryer , Microwave , Oven , Refrigerator , Trash compactor , Washer , Water dispenser Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Air conditioner , Septic tank , Septic , Well pump , First-class upgrade
Service fee: $85.00 Monthly cost: $48.50
Items covered: Attic fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust fan , Dishwasher , Disposal , Dryer , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door , Heating system , Microwave , Oven , Plumbing system , Plumbing stoppages , Refrigerator , Toilet , Trash compactor , Vacuum , Water heater , Washer , Water dispenser Add-on items: Pool , Spa , Air conditioner , Septic tank , Septic , Well pump , First-class upgrade

Cinch Home Services

Offers home insurance deductible of $500

Extra long 180-day workmanship guarantee

Offers free cancellation in the first 30 days

Charges high service fees of $75-$150

Doesn’t allow customers to choose their own technician

Isn’t available in hawaii or alaska

In National City, Cinch Home Services is the home warranty with the best workmanship guarantee. Cinch is a home warranty company with 44 years of experience in the industry, and it has established itself as one of the best providers in the business. Cinch has established itself as a company with a 180-day workmanship guarantee that ensures your home systems and appliance repairs will be professionally done. It also has a broad range of coverage options that will give homeowners peace of mind. Cinch has 3 plans for you to decide between.

There are 3 home warranty plans from Cinch Home Services: Appliances Plan, Built-in Systems Plan, and Complete Home Plan. The coverage limits from Cinch are around $1,000-$2,000. The service fees are customizable and range from $75 to $150, which is less than other providers in the National City area.

To receive a free quote from Cinch Home Services, you can fill out this online form or call 877-589-0505. For more information, read our detailed review of Cinch Home Services.

Appliances Plan

Built-in Systems Plan

Complete Home Plan

Service fee: $75.00 - $150.00 Monthly cost: $34.99 - $50.99
Items covered: Cooktop exhaust fan , Dishwasher , Dryer , Food center , Free-standing ice maker , Microwave , Oven , Refrigerator , Refrigerator ice maker , Trash compactor , Washer Add-on items: Pool , Septic , Well pump
Service fee: $75.00 - $150.00 Monthly cost: $39.99 - $57.99
Items covered: Air conditioner , Smoke alarm , Attic fans , Bath exhaust fans , Ceiling fans , Disposal , Doorbell , Ductwork , Electrical , Garage door , Heating system , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Septic tank pumping , Spa , Sump pump , Toilet , Vacuum , Water dispenser , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Pool , Septic , Well pump
Service fee: $75.00 - $150.00 Monthly cost: $49.99 - $67.99
Items covered: Air conditioner , Alarm , Attic fans , Bath exhaust fans , Ceiling fans , Cooktop exhaust , Dishwasher , Disposal , Doorbell , Dryer , Ductwork , Electrical , Food center , Free-standing ice maker , Garage door , Heating system , Microwave , Oven , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Refrigerator , Refrigerator ice maker , Septic tank pumping , Spa , Sump pump , Toilet , Trash compactor , Vacuum , Washer , Water dispenser , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Pool , Septic , Well pump

The Home Service Club

Policy starts in ten days

24/7 customer service support

Generous coverage caps on important systems and appliances

30-labor guarantee and 90-day parts guarantee

Offers utility and home service outside line coverage

Higher service fee of $95

Not accredited by the better business bureau (bbb)

Only 2 plan options

In National City, The Home Service Club is the best home warranty with the quickest service. HSC is a home warranty company with 15 years of experience in the industry, and it has established itself as one of the best providers in the business. HSC has established itself as a company with quick coverage where the home warranty goes into effect just ten days after you pay for the plan, instead of the typical 30 days. It also has customer service representatives available 24/7, as well as a 30-day labor guarantee and a 90-day parts guarantee. HSC has 2 plans for you to decide between.

There are 2 home warranty plans from The Home Service Club: Standard Coverage Plan and Comprehensive Coverage Plan. The coverage limits from HSC are around $2,000. The service fees are customizable and range from $65 to $90, which is less than other providers in the National City area.

To receive a free quote from The Home Service Club, you can fill out this online form or call 800-750-9443. For more information, read our detailed review of The Home Service Club.

Standard Coverage Plan

Comprehensive Coverage Plan

Service fee: $60.00 - $95.00 Monthly cost: $50.40
Items covered: Air conditioner , Ceiling fan , Dishwasher , Garbage disposal , Dryer , Electrical system , Food center , Free-standing ice maker , Garage door opener , Heating system , Microwave , Oven , Plumbing , Refrigerator , Trash compactor , Central vacuum , Washer , Water heater Add-on items: Utilities and home service line coverage (outside gas line, outside water line, outside sewer line, sprinkler system , Pool , Spa , Water softener , Roof leaks , Well pump , Pump , Stand-alone freezer
Service fee: $60.00 - $95.00 Monthly cost: $62.90
Items covered: Air conditioner , Alarm wiring , Attic fans , Ceiling fan , Dishwasher , Garbage disposal , Doorbell , Dryer , Ductwork , Electrical system , Food center , Free-standing ice maker , Garage door opener , Heating system , Microwave , Oven , Pest control , Phone , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Refrigerator , Sump pump , Toilet , Trash compactor , Central vacuum , Washer , Water dispenser , Water heater , Whole house fan Add-on items: Utilities and home service line coverage (outside gas line, outside water line, outside sewer line, sprinkler system , Pool , Spa , Water softener , Roof leaks , Well pump , Pump , Stand-alone freezer
Today's Homeowner Ranking Methodology

Today's Homeowner looks at dozens of datapoints on home warranty companies to come up with our data-driven rankings. It's not possible for a company to pay for preferential treatment in our rankings. We look at the following key factors in determining who should top our list:

  • Company Experience
  • Real User Reviews
  • Company Reputation
  • Accreditations and Licenses
  • Service Area
  • Customer Service
Have questions about our methodology or company ratings? Reach out to FindAPro@TodaysHomeowner.com.

Cost of Common Home Repairs in National City

Home Appliance Repair Cost
Air Conditioner $6,742
Heating $4,494
Electrical $674
Toilets $562
Washer/Dryer $899
Plumbing $674
Oven $1,798
Fridge $674

How Does a Home Warranty Work?

A home warranty is a protection plan that helps lower expenses for National City homeowners needing appliance and system repairs. These plans provide financial coverage to fix or swap out appliances and systems that stop working due to normal wear and tear.

Homeowners file a claim and pay a service fee when something breaks. The home warranty provider then finds a contractor to make the repair or replacement. The only time you may pay out-of-pocket is if the repair or replacement costs go over the item's coverage limit. A home warranty policy gives homeowners peace of mind because it can help avoid costly emergency repairs. They can be especially helpful for people purchasing older homes or homes with appliances near the end of their life span. However, newer homes with modern appliances and fixtures may not need a home warranty.

What Does a Home Warranty Cover?

Home warranties cover your home systems and appliances. Common covered appliances are dishwashers, dryers, washers, garbage disposals, refrigerators, microwaves, and more. Covered systems are typically electrical, heating, air conditioning, and plumbing. Many home warranty companies offer add-on coverage for septic systems, central vacuums, roof leaks, and locksmiths. Most home warranty plans require National City homeowners to refrain from making claims for 30 days before they can use the policy to pay for repairs. Moreover, policies usually only cover repairs and replacements due to normal wear and tear. Home warranties don't cover natural disasters, pre-existing conditions, cosmetic issues, or misusing a system or appliance. To make sure your next repair or replacement is covered, keep up with preventative maintenance.

Key Home Warranty Terms to Know

Here are some essential home warranty words to know before signing a contract:

  • Trade call fee: An additional fee that's sometimes required to appliance-related claims.
  • Contract rate: The rate that your home warranty provider has pre-negotiated with its contractors. Normally, this rate is lower than what you'd pay retail.
  • Deductible: The amount you're responsible for before your warranty covers the remainder of the cost. Deductibles apply to covered repairs and may be on a per-claim or yearly basis.
  • Claim approval: The process by which your provider determines whether a requested repair or replacement is covered under your warranty.
  • Coverage limits: How much money your warranty provider will pay for specific repairs or replacements. Check limits on repairs for things like roof leaks, appliances, and air conditioning units.
  • Endorsements: Additional coverage for systems like septic, pools, and well pumps, which usually comes with a fee for each add-on.
  • Service fee: The out-of-pocket cost you pay per claim for access to a contractor and repair coverage.
Keeping these important details in mind will help you understand a home warranty contract and select a plan that's tailored to protect your most important home systems. Be sure to discuss specifics of coverage with potential providers during the quote process to help avoid unexpected fees.

Key Factors in Choosing a Home Warranty Company

When you're deciding on a home warranty provider, there are several important things to take into account:

Coverage Options

Home warranties differ greatly in the items covered. Basic policies typically cover plumbing, AC, electrical, heating, and appliances, while more comprehensive options may also cover well pumps, spas, pools, and roof leaks. Look for companies with a diverse range of coverage options, including upgraded plans. This helps you tailor protection to your needs.

Service Fees

Expect to pay a per-service fee of $60-100 for each home warranty claim. With these per-request costs adding up over time as you file claims, some homeowners prefer to choose a provider with lower service fees to maximize savings. Some companies also eliminate deductibles for homeowners who don't file claims in a certain period.

Reputation

A home warranty provider's reputation provides insight into things such as approval rates, contractor quality, repair timeliness, and customer service. Browse review platforms such as TrustPilot, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), or Google Reviews to research companies. Positive ratings and feedback indicate a provider known for exceptional service.

Contractor Network

Home warranty companies have networks of technicians that they use to tackle covered repairs. More extensive networks increase the likelihood of getting skilled contractors to your home quickly. Contact possible providers to learn how many contractors they have in National City. This helps you understand how long repairs could take in an urgent situation.

Added Benefits

Certain home warranty providers include perks such as energy-efficient upgrades, protection for smart home devices, and discounts on maintenance. These bonuses can provide extra value beyond repair coverage. Added perks enhance your home and maximize your home warranty.

Is a Home Warranty Worth it in National City?


Benefits of a Home Warranty

National City’s hot summers can put a strain on a home’s HVAC system. Whether it’s summer or winter, a home warranty can help cover your home’s appliances and systems in the event they need to be repaired or replaced. For example, if your air conditioner breaks down in the middle of July, a home warranty can cover the repairs, preventing you from spending a lot of money out of pocket.

Additionally, having a home warranty can save you time by getting rid of the need to research service technicians — most providers will send a trusted professional right to your door to carry out the necessary repair or replacement. Another added benefit of having home warranty coverage is that it can raise your home’s real estate value. If you ever decide to sell your house, you may be able to transfer your home warranty plan to the new homebuyer depending on the provider you have your home warranty with.

Downsides of a Home Warranty

There are also some negatives to getting a home warranty plan, such as the coverage exclusions. For example, home warranties may not cover systems or appliances that already have a manufacturer's warranty.

Another possible pain point of home warranties is that they don’t cover systems or appliances that have been improperly maintained. This can lead to your repair requests being rejected, so it’s important to make sure you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance of your home systems and appliances.

Our Recommended Providers

Best for Customization
4.5/5
  • Holds high ratings among customer service reviews
  • Covers repairs with a 60-day workmanship guarantee
  • Offers an extensive list of 30+ add-on coverages
Best For First Time Homeowners
4.2/5
  • The oldest and most trusted company in the industry
  • Allows customers to build their own plans
  • Ability to choose the service fee you want to pay
Best Claims Acceptance
4.1/5
  • Comprehensive coverage
  • Decent coverage caps
  • No exclusions for older homes

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in National City, CA

A home warranty in National City can cost between $30 and $60 a month. Higher-priced plans tend to have a lower service fee, higher coverage limits, and broader coverage. This cost is often lower if you pay annually instead of monthly. Some providers will also decrease your up-front costs when you opt for a higher service fee.

The difference between a home warranty and homeowner's insurance lies in what types of damage each covers. A home warranty protects against normal wear and tear to home systems and appliances. A homeowners insurance plan protects your entire home in a situation such as a fire or natural disaster. Under homeowners insurance, you will not be able to file a claim if you need a new refrigerator or stove, unless the damage is a result of a natural disaster, which isn't that common in National City.

First-time homebuyers, real estate agents, landlords, homeowners, and home sellers are all eligible for home warranty plans. A home warranty can help make your home more attractive to prospective buyers and save you money in the long run.

The different home warranties in National City include plans with coverage for either appliances or systems as well as comprehensive plans. A comprehensive plan will cover your home systems and appliances, including your washing machine, drier, and heating and cooling systems. An appliance or system plan will cover only the items listed in the policy.

Home warranty plans generally provide coverage for a year. Many providers let you renew your plan annually, and some offer month-to-month options as well.

Generally, the homeowner is the one who pays the premium and service fees. However, if you have just bought a new home, sometimes the seller will pay for the policy. This can then be transferred to the new homeowner, who has to pay the service fees when using the policy. In National City, where the median value of a home is $1,179,693, having the seller pay for the home warranty can be a good asset for your new home.

Other National City, CA Home Services