Expert Advice On Improving Your Home

6 Best Home Warranty Companies in Skokie, IL

Written By David Cusick

Last Updated February 2024

Homeownership in Skokie comes with many perks, but it also comes with its difficulties. Your home’s appliances and systems will eventually need repairs, and this could mean a burdensome expense. A home warranty in Skokie can help bring down your out-of-pocket costs by covering repairs or replacements to major home systems and appliances that malfunction due to normal wear and tear.

Finding the right warranty for your home can be challenging, so our team at Today's Homeowner has done the research to help you find the best home warranty companies in Skokie. Read on for our top provider recommendations.

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 Skokie

Liberty Home Guard

Very highly rated among customer service reviews

Covers repairs with a 60-day workmanship guarantee

Extensive list of 20+ add-on coverages

Easy claims process

Won’t cover known or unknown pre-existing conditions

Liberty Home Guard is the most trustworthy home warranty for Skokie residents. When you buy a plan from Liberty, you will get a seamless complaint process and guaranteed service professionalism upon every repair visit. Liberty Home Guard also has a 60-day workmanship guarantee and some of the best customer service in the industry. Liberty has 3 simple plans, making the selection process and policy coverage easily understandable.

Liberty Home Guard has 3 plans that offer a combination of appliance and system coverage. The coverage caps from Liberty are around $3,000. The service fees are an affordable $75, which is cheaper than other providers in the Skokie area.

For a more detailed breakdown, read our review of Liberty Home Guard. To get a free quote from Liberty Home Guard, you can fill out this online form or call 866-451-2281.

Appliance Guard

Systems Guard

Total Home Guard

Service fee: $75.00 Monthly cost: $69.99
Items covered: Ceiling Fan , Cooktop exhaust fan , Disposal , Dishwasher , Dryer , Garage door , Microwave , Oven , Refrigerator , Refrigerator ice maker , Washer Add-on items: Pool , Saltwater pool , Spa , TV , PC , Pump , Generator , Free-standing ice maker , Septic tank pumping , Roof leaks , Pests , Water softener , Well pump , Wine refrigerator , Septic , Sprinkler , Locksmith , Trash compactor , Sump pump , Vacuum , Stand-alone freezer , Water dispenser
Service fee: $75.00 Monthly cost: $74.99
Items covered: Air Conditioner , Bath exhaust fan , Ductwork , Electrical , Heating system , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Toilet , Water heater Add-on items: Pool , Saltwater pool , Spa , TV , PC , Pump , Generator , Free-standing ice maker , Septic tank pumping , Roof leaks , Pests , Water softener , Well pump , Wine refrigerator , Septic , Sprinkler , Locksmith , Trash compactor , Sump pump , Vacuum , Stand-alone freezer , Water dispenser
Service fee: $75.00 Monthly cost: $79.99
Items covered: Ceiling Fan , Cooktop exhaust fan , Disposal , Dishwasher , Dryer , Garage door , Microwave , Oven , Refrigerator , Refrigerator ice maker , Washer , Air Conditioner , Bath exhaust fan , Ductwork , Electrical , Heating system , Plumbing , Plumbing stoppages , Toilet , Water heater Add-on items: Pool , Saltwater pool , Spa , TV , PC , Pump , Generator , Free-standing ice maker , Septic tank pumping , Roof leaks , Pests , Water softener , Well pump , Wine refrigerator , Septic , Sprinkler , Locksmith , Trash compactor , Sump pump , Vacuum , Stand-alone freezer , Water dispenser

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

Choice Home Warranty is the best overall home warranty for Skokie residents. When you buy a plan from Choice, you will get very high coverage caps and simple-to-understand service contracts. Choice Home Warranty also has great customer service, professional contractors, and lower out-of-pocket costs compared to other home warranties. Choice has 2 simple plans, making the selection process and policy coverage easily understandable.

Choice Home Warranty has 2 plans that offer a combination of appliance and system coverage. The coverage caps from Choice are around $3,000. The service fees are an affordable $85, which is cheaper than other providers in the Skokie area.

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

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

Select Home Warranty is the most cost-effective home warranty for Skokie residents. When you buy a plan from Select, you will get a highly affordable service fee and free roof coverage upon purchase of a policy plan. Select Home Warranty also has an extensive network of highly trained professionals all over the country who are experts in home maintenance. Select has 3 simple plans, making the selection process and policy coverage easily understandable.

Select Home Warranty has 3 plans that offer a combination of appliance and system coverage. The coverage caps from Select are around $2,000. The service fees are a reasonable $60, which is cheaper than other providers in the Skokie area.

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

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

American Home Shield is the most customizable home warranty for Skokie residents. When you buy a plan from AHS, you will get the ability to customize your plan with the coverages that work specifically for your home. American Home Shield also has a remarkably low claim denial rate in comparison to other home warranty companies. AHS has 3 simple plans, making the selection process and policy coverage easily understandable.

American Home Shield has 3 plans that offer a combination of appliance and system coverage. The coverage caps from AHS are around $2,500. The service fees are customizable and range from $75 to $125, which is cheaper than other providers in the Skokie area.

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

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

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

Cinch Home Services is the home warranty with the best workmanship guarantee for Skokie residents. When you buy a plan from Cinch, you will get a 180-day workmanship guarantee that ensures your home systems and appliance repairs will be professionally done. Cinch Home Services also has a broad range of coverage options that will give homeowners peace of mind. Cinch has 3 simple plans, making the selection process and policy coverage easily understandable.

Cinch Home Services has 3 plans that offer a combination of appliance and system coverage. The coverage caps from Cinch are around $1,000-$2,000. The service fees are customizable and range from $75 to $150, which is cheaper than other providers in the Skokie area.

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

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

The Home Service Club is the best home warranty with the quickest service for Skokie residents. When you buy a plan from HSC, you will get quick coverage where the home warranty goes into effect just ten days after you pay for the plan, instead of the typical 30 days. The Home Service Club 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 simple plans, making the selection process and policy coverage easily understandable.

The Home Service Club has 2 plans that offer a combination of appliance and system coverage. The coverage caps from HSC are around $2,000. The service fees are customizable and range from $65 to $90, which is cheaper than other providers in the Skokie area.

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

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 Skokie

Home Appliance Repair Cost
Air Conditioner $6,613
Heating $4,409
Electrical $661
Toilets $551
Washer/Dryer $882
Plumbing $661
Oven $1,763
Fridge $661

How Does a Home Warranty Work?

A home warranty is a protection plan that helps Skokie homeowners in lowering the costs of appliance and system repairs. The plans provide financial coverage to swap out or repair appliances and systems that stop working due to normal wear and tear.

When something stops working, you submit a claim and pay a service fee. The home warranty provider then finds a contractor to handle the replacement or fix. Homeowners may have out-of-pocket costs only if the repair or replacement costs exceed the item's coverage limit. A home warranty plan gives homeowners a sense of security because it can help avoid expensive emergency repairs. They can be especially helpful for buyers of older homes or homes with systems 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 household systems and appliances. Covered appliances normally include dryers, washers, garbage disposals, refrigerators, microwaves, dishwashers, and others. Covered systems include heating, plumbing, electrical, and air conditioning. Many home warranty companies also offer add-on coverage for central vacuums, roof leaks, septic systems, and locksmiths. Skokie homeowners should know that most home warranty policies have a 30-day period you must wait before they can be used to cover repairs. Additionally, most policies only cover repairs and replacements due to normal wear and tear. Home warranties don't cover problems such as natural disasters, pre-existing conditions, cosmetic issues, or improper use of a system or appliance. It's important to keep up with preventative maintenance to help ensure that your next repair or replacement is covered by your policy.

Key Home Warranty Terms to Know

There are multiple home warranty terms to understand before signing an agreement, including:

  • Service fee: The out-of-pocket cost you pay per claim for access to a contractor and repair coverage.
  • Endorsements: Additional coverage for systems like well pumps, pools, and septic, which usually comes with a fee for each add-on.
  • Contract rate: A pre-negotiated rate that your home warranty provider has worked out with contractors. This rate is typically less than what you would pay retail.
  • Coverage limits: The maximum dollar amount that your warranty provider will pay for certain repairs or replacements. Check your contract's limits on repairs for things like appliances, roof leaks, and air conditioning units.
  • Deductible: How much you pay for a covered repair before your warranty covers the rest. Deductibles can be per-claim or yearly.
  • Claim approval: The process a provider uses to validate that a requested repair or replacement is covered under your plan.
  • Trade call fee: An added fee that you'll sometimes need to pay for appliance-related claims.
Keeping these terms and key factors in mind will help you understand costs and select a home warranty that's tailored to protect your home. Be sure to discuss specifics of coverage with potential companies during the quote process, so you can 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 warranty policies differ significantly in terms of coverage. Most plans cover plumbing, heating, electrical, AC, and appliances. More robust plans also extend protection to other items such as roof leaks, well pumps, pools, and spas. Look for providers with an array of coverage options, such as upgraded plans. You'll want to tailor your protection for your home’s needs.

Service Fees

You'll pay a service fee, typically $60–100, for each claim filed with your home warranty provider. These per-claim charges can quickly add up, so you may look for providers advertising more affordable fees to optimize savings on each repair claim. Certain companies may waive deductibles when a homeowner submits no claims in a defined period.

Reputation

A home warranty provider's rating provides insight into things such as timeliness of repairs, claim approval rates, contractor quality, and overall customer satisfaction. Use third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, or TrustPilot to research companies. Complimentary ratings and reviews indicate a company known for stellar service.

Contractor Network

Home warranty companies use networks of local repair contractors to manage repairs in a given area. Reach out to potential businesses to ask how many repair technicians they have in Skokie and get an idea of how fast your repairs could be handled in an emergency. More extensive networks raise the likelihood of getting qualified contractors to swiftly service your home.

Added Benefits

Some home warranty plans offer bonuses such as maintenance discounts, smart home device protection, and energy efficiency upgrades. These perks add value beyond just repair coverage. Added bonuses help maximize the usefulness of your home warranty.

Is a Home Warranty Worth it in Skokie?


Benefits of a Home Warranty

Since temperatures in Skokie can be quite cold in the winter, the weather can put a lot of strain on your HVAC system. Getting a home warranty plan can help homeowners save money if one of these systems or appliances breaks unexpectedly.

Not only can a home warranty save you some money on repairs and replacements, it saves you time too. Instead of having to vet technicians by yourself, home warranty companies do the work for you and send a contractor from their network right to your door when you need them. Another benefit of having a home warranty is if you want to sell your home, you can most likely transfer your home warranty plan to the new owners. It can make your home more attractive to potential homebuyers and may help your home sell faster.

Downsides of a Home Warranty

Home warranties also have some drawbacks. While it can save you time when the home warranty sends out a repair person who carries out the repair for you, some people may not like this, and they would prefer to choose their own contractor. If that’s the case for you, some home warranty companies let you choose a contractor.

Another consideration is that home warranties typically only cover damage from normal wear and tear. They commonly won’t cover systems or appliances that have been damaged due to improper maintenance, natural disasters, animal infestations, etc.

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 Skokie, IL

A home warranty policy costs, on average, about $300 to $600 a year in Skokie. Our high-rated home warranty companies' most comprehensive coverage options vary from $546 to $840 per year. You can get a lower monthly payment with some companies by choosing a higher service fee. In addition, it's usually cheaper to pay annually rather than monthly.

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 case of something such as a fire or natural disaster. Under homeowners insurance, you won't be able to file a claim should you need a new dryer or air conditioner, unless the damage is due to a natural disaster, which can be a threat in Skokie.

A home warranty plan can help homebuyers, home sellers, homeowners, investors, and real estate agents. It can provide peace of mind and savings to anyone involved with homeownership.

The different types of home warranties in Skokie include plans that cover either appliances or systems as well as comprehensive plans. A comprehensive plan will cover your home systems and appliances, such as your dishwasher, washing machine, and plumbing. An appliance or system plan will cover only the items mentioned in the plan.

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

Usually the person who owns the home is responsible for paying for the home warranty. In some cases, however, the person who is selling the home may purchase a home warranty and transfer the policy to the buyer. The new homeowner will then be responsible for the service fees when using the policy. Considering that the average home value in Skokie is $361,013, a home warranty can save you some money when buying a home.

Other Skokie, IL Home Services