Empire Home Protect vs Cinch Home Services
Side-by-side comparison of plans, pricing, claims, and coverage for 2026. Pick the home warranty that actually fits your home.
The Short Answer
Empire Home Protect and Cinch Home Services both offer home warranty coverage, but they take different approaches to pricing, claims, and what is included in the base plan. This page is a factual comparison so you can decide which provider actually fits your home and your budget.
Empire Home Protect stands out for transparent coverage, a 30-day money-back guarantee, plans starting at $49/month, and a nationwide service network of licensed local technicians. Cinch Home Services longtime home warranty provider (formerly Cross Country Home Services) with a long operating history and established contractor network.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Empire Home Protect | Cinch Home Services |
|---|---|---|
| Plans Start At | $49/mo | Varies by plan tier |
| Typical Service Fee | Flat per-visit fee | $100 to $150 per service call |
| Claim Processing | Typically 24 to 48 hours | Varies |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30 days | Varies by provider |
| Network | Nationwide licensed local technicians | Nationwide |
| Coverage Categories | HVAC, plumbing, electrical, water heater, major appliances, laundry, garage door opener | HVAC, plumbing, electrical, major appliances (specifics vary by tier) |
| Track Record | Covers 400,000+ homeowners | Founded 1978 |
What Empire Home Protect Does Differently
Transparent Coverage
We publish what is covered and what is not before you enroll. No buried exclusions, no industry jargon. If a system is covered, we cover it. If it is not, we say so upfront.
30-Day Money-Back Guarantee
Every new Empire Home Protect plan comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. If it is not right for you, full refund.
Fast Claims With Real Humans
Most claims reviewed within 24 to 48 hours. When you call 1-888-211-4182, you reach a real team member.
Competitive Starting Price
Plans start at $49 per month — accessible entry point for real coverage.
Where Cinch Home Services Has Strengths
Long industry tenure, large contractor network, robust coverage tiers including appliance discount programs and premium add-ons.
When Cinch Home Services might be the better pick: If you want a long-established provider and value premium add-ons like appliance discount programs bundled with your plan, Cinch has that structure built in.
Common Concerns With Cinch Home Services
Service fees on the higher end of the market, and customer reviews note inconsistent claim experiences depending on region. If any of these are deal-breakers, Empire Home Protect is worth a closer look.
Which Plan Is Right for You?
- Choose Empire Home Protect if: you want transparent coverage, a 30-day money-back guarantee, fast claims, and a plan starting at $49/month.
- Consider Cinch Home Services if: you want a long-established provider and value premium add-ons like appliance discount programs bundled with your plan, cinch has that structure built in.
- Either one if: your core need is basic HVAC + plumbing + electrical + appliance coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Empire Home Protect cheaper than Cinch Home Services?
Empire Home Protect plans start at $49/month, which is competitive with or below Cinch Home Services’s pricing. Your exact price depends on your plan tier and home — a free quote takes under two minutes.
How fast does Empire Home Protect process claims compared to Cinch Home Services?
Empire Home Protect typically reviews claims within 24 to 48 hours. Cinch Home Services’s claim times vary based on customer reports.
Can I switch from Cinch Home Services to Empire Home Protect?
Yes. You can enroll in Empire Home Protect any time. Run both until Cinch Home Services expires or cancel per their policy. Call 1-888-211-4182 for help planning the switch.
Does Empire Home Protect cover the same systems as Cinch Home Services?
Both providers cover core home systems: HVAC, plumbing, electrical, water heater, and major appliances. Coverage caps vary by tier — check plan documents.
What is the 30-day money-back guarantee?
Enroll and if it is not right within 30 days, full refund. After 30 days, cancel any time for a pro-rated refund.
See Your Empire Home Protect Plan and Price
Free quote in under two minutes. Plans from $49/mo. Cancel within 30 days for a full refund.

