Are Home Warranties Worth It for San Diego Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for San Diego residents. San Diego 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.
San Diego 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, on the other hand, come in at only $644–$737 annually, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies nationwide.
Even the infrequent rain in San Diego can damage your home's roof. The financial burden of this will be lessened if your home warranty has roof-leak coverage. Lastly, a home warranty connects you with trustworthy service providers.
Investing in a reputable home warranty company is worth it because companies vet their technicians. If you don't have time to do the research yourself, your home warranty company can give you peace of mind that someone reliable will handle your problem.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
These key factors can help you choose the right home warranty plan for your needs.
Cost
We requested 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home. From this we determined that home warranties cost an average of $53–$62 per month. You'll also pay a service call fee of between $65–$125 whenever you file a claim. Comprehensive home warranties cost more than basic ones, and home systems coverage plans cost more than appliance plans. You can select add-on coverage options, but these will increase your monthly cost. Consider your specific needs before selecting a plan.
Coverage
Most home warranties can be somewhat customized to your needs. Think about which systems and appliances you use often and want coverage for. If you only need coverage for select appliances or systems (such as your air conditioning), you can often find plans to fit. 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 breakdowns from normal wear and tear. They don't cover improper installation or preexisting conditions. Additionally, home warranties don't cover appliance components or cosmetic issues, defects, theft, or routine maintenance. Each provider outlines exclusions and limitations within its service contract. We recommend reading it to understand your plan's specific terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Provider reputation is another key factor to consider. You can browse customer reviews on sites like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and Best Company or check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Ratings and reviews can provide insight into how a company handles claims and customer service. Check with the California 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. Be sure to ask your provider where and how it sources technicians. All reputable companies should use licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. If you can, use a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Residents of rural areas might consider choosing a home warranty provider that lets customers choose their technicians. It's good to have the option to source your own providers if no in-network ones are available in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in San Diego
Is a home warranty required in San Diego?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in San Diego?
Do home warranties cover other types of home items?
Why is there a waiting period before my home warranty coverage begins?
How is a home warranty different from homeowners insurance?
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