Are Home Warranties Worth It for La Mesa Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for La Mesa residents. La Mesa 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.
La Mesa winters are fairly mild, but there will still be days when you rely on your heating. HVAC system replacement can cost from $2,500 to $8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, run about $644–$737 annually, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies nationwide.
Even La Mesa's irregular rain can affect your home's roof. Some home warranty providers offer limited roof-leak coverage to financially assist with repair. Lastly, 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 every service provider they work with.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Think about these important 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 an average of $53–$62 monthly. You'll also pay a service call fee every time you file a claim. These fees typically range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans are generally more affordable than comprehensive ones. A home systems coverage plan will usually cost more than an appliance plan. Most plans offer add-on coverage, but this will increase your monthly cost. Make sure you know your specific needs before selecting a plan.
Coverage
Figure out which appliances and systems you use the most. You want your home warranty plan to cover these items. Most home warranties can be customized to your needs, and many providers offer systems-only plans for homeowners that only want select coverage (such as for air conditioning). You can also get a plan that only covers select appliances. 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 damage from normal wear and tear. They don't cover improper installation or preexisting conditions. In addition, home warranties don't cover appliance components or cosmetic issues, theft, routine maintenance, or defects. Providers outline limitations and exclusions with their service contracts. Make sure you read it and understand your plan's specific terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Consider provider reputation when making a decision. You can also read real customer reviews on sites such as Google Reviews, Trustpilot, and Best Company. Looking at reviews can show you how companies handle claims and customer service. Check with the California Department of Consumer Affairs to verify a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's service provider network. Any company you choose should use licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests; make sure to ask your company where and how it sources technicians. We recommend picking a provider that mentions service contractors you're familiar with. Homeowners in rural areas may prefer home warranty policies that allow you to choose your technician. There may not be any in-network service providers in these areas, so you'll want the option to choose your own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in La Mesa
Do I need a home warranty in La Mesa?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is La Mesa'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?
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