Are Home Warranties Worth It for Gilroy Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for Gilroy residents. Gilroy experiences hot summers, and you probably use your air conditioner constantly during the warmer months. Your air conditioner can malfunction over time from heavy use.
Winters in Gilroy are fairly mild, but there will still be days when you rely on your heating. HVAC system replacement can cost anywhere between $2,500 and $8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, run about $644–$737 per year, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies nationwide.
Even the infrequent rain in Gilroy can damage your roof. The financial burden of this will be lessened if your home warranty has roof-leak coverage. Finally, home warranties connect you with reliable technicians.
When work and other priorities keep you busy, you want to know a trustworthy service provider is handling your repairs. Reputable home warranty companies vet all their service providers.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
These key factors can help you select the right home warranty plan for your needs.
Cost
We requested 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and found that home warranties cost an average of $53–$62 per month. There are also service call fees each time you file a claim. Service call fees range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans generally cost less than comprehensive ones. Appliance plans usually cost less than home systems coverage plans. Consider your specific needs before choosing a plan, as getting add-on coverage options will raise the monthly price.
Coverage
You can look for a home warranty plan that covers specific systems and appliances. Determine whether you need coverage for major systems (such as air conditioning), specific appliances, or for both. Then ask your provider about its options for customized coverage. 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 cover only normal wear and tear, which excludes preexisting conditions and improper installation. Additionally, most policies will exclude appliance components or cosmetic issues, routine maintenance, theft, or defects. Each provider outlines exclusions and limitations within its service contract. Make sure you read it and understand your plan's exact terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Provider reputation is another key factor to consider. You can find real customer reviews on sites like Best Company, Trustpilot, and Google Reviews or check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Reviews and ratings 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. Trustworthy home warranty providers source licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. We suggest asking a provider how and where it sources technicians. Select a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Homeowners in rural areas should consider choosing a home warranty that lets them select their technician. There may be no in-network service providers available in these areas, and customers may need to source their own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Gilroy
Is a home warranty required in Gilroy?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Gilroy'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 long does a home warranty typically last?
How can I maximize the value of my home warranty?
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