Are Home Warranties Worth It for Cincinnati Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Cincinnati residents. Cincinnati can have fairly hot days during the summer, and you probably use your air conditioner frequently during the warmer months. Your air conditioner may malfunction over time from heavy use.
Winters in Cincinnati can be mild, but there are still days when you rely on your heating. HVAC system replacement can cost from $2,500 to $8,000. Home warranties are comparatively cheaper, costing roughly $644–$737 annually, based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies nationwide.
The regular rain in Cincinnati can damage your roof. Some home warranty companies offer limited roof-leak coverage, which can mitigate the cost of roof repair. Finally, your home warranty will connect you with trustworthy service providers.
Investing in a reputable home warranty company is worth it because companies vet their technicians. If you're focused on work or other priorities, your home warranty provider can give you peace of mind that someone reliable will handle your issue.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Consider these key factors to determine the right home warranty plan for your needs.
Cost
We pulled 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and found that home warranties cost an average of $53–$62 per month. You'll also pay service call fees whenever you file a claim. Service call fees range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans tend to be more affordable than comprehensive ones. A home systems coverage plan will usually cost more than an appliance plan. Many plans have add-on coverage options, but this will increase your monthly cost, so make sure you know what you need before choosing a plan.
Coverage
You can often find home warranty plans that cover specific appliances and systems. Decide whether you need coverage for major systems (such as air conditioning), specific appliances, or both. Then ask your provider about its options for customized coverage. Here 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
Typically, home warranties don't cover improper installation or preexisting conditions. Most policies only cover normal wear and tear. Most will also exclude appliance components or cosmetic issues, theft, defects, or routine maintenance. You can read about your provider's limitations and exclusions in your service contract. Be sure to read the contract carefully to understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Consider a company's reputation when making a decision. You can also read real customer reviews on sites such as Google Reviews, Best Company, and Trustpilot. Looking at reviews can show you how providers handle claims and customer service. Check with the Ohio Consumer Protection Section to verify that a provider holds a license with the state.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's service provider network. Reputable home warranty companies source licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. We suggest asking a provider how and where it sources technicians. Choose a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Rural homeowners should consider a home warranty policy that allows the customer to choose their technician. Rural areas may not have any in-network service providers available, and customers may need to source their own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Cincinnati
Is a home warranty required in Cincinnati?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Cincinnati's best home warranty provider?
Do home warranties cover other types of home items?
Why do home warranties have a waiting period before coverage begins?
How is a home warranty different from homeowners insurance?
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