Are Home Warranties Worth It for Aliso Viejo Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Aliso Viejo residents. Aliso Viejo summers are very hot, which makes it extremely important that your air conditioner is working well. However, over time this system can malfunction from heavy use.
Aliso Viejo winters are fairly mild, but you still want a reliable heating system. HVAC system replacement can cost anywhere from $2,500–$8,000, compared to a home warranty costing roughly $644–$737 annually based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies nationwide. Even Aliso Viejo's irregular rain can affect your home's roof.
Some home warranty companies offer limited roof-leak coverage to financially assist with repair. Finally, your home warranty will connect you with service providers you can trust. 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
Think about these key factors when choosing the best home warranty plan for you.
Cost
After getting 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home, we determined that home warranties cost roughly $53–$62 a month. You'll also pay a service call fee each time you file a claim. Service call fees range from $65–$125 per claim. A basic home warranty will be more affordable than a comprehensive one. Appliance plans are typically less costly than home systems coverage plans. Most plans give you the option of getting add-on coverage options for an additional monthly fee. Consider your specific needs before purchasing a plan.
Coverage
Most home warranty companies can tailor a plan to your needs. Think about which appliances and systems 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. 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
Generally, home warranties don't cover improper installation or preexisting conditions. Most policies only cover damage from normal wear and tear. Most also exclude cosmetic issues or appliance components, theft, routine maintenance, or defects. Providers outline limitations and exclusions with their service contracts. We recommend reading it to understand your protection plan's exact terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Provider reputation is another key factor to consider. You can find customer reviews on sites like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and Best Company or check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Reviews and ratings can give you 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 license with the state.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's service provider network. Companies should always use licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. Make sure you ask how and where a company sources its technicians. Choose a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Rural homeowners may prefer a home warranty that lets them choose their technician. You'll want to be able to source your own provider if no in-network ones are available in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Aliso Viejo
Is a home warranty required in Aliso Viejo?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Aliso Viejo'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 do I file a claim with my home warranty provider?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.