Are Home Warranties Worth It for La Quinta Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for La Quinta residents. Summers in La Quinta are very hot, which makes it very important to have a reliable air conditioner. However, this system can malfunction over time from heavy use.
La Quinta has fairly mild winters, but it's still important to make sure your heating works when needed. The cost of an HVAC system replacement can range anywhere from $2,500–$8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, come in at only $644–$737 annually, based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies across the nation.
Even the infrequent rain in La Quinta can damage your roof. The financial burden of this will be lessened if you have a home warranty with roof-leak coverage. Lastly, your home warranty will connect you with trustworthy service providers.
A reputable home warranty is a good investment because companies vet their technicians. If you're focused on work or other priorities, 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 important factors can help you select the right home warranty plan for your needs.
Cost
We received 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and found that the average home warranty costs between $53–$62 per month. There are also service call fees that apply whenever you file a claim. These fees range from $65–$125 per claim. A basic home warranty will be more affordable than a comprehensive one. Home systems coverage plans will cost more than appliance plans. Most plans offer add-on coverage options for an additional monthly fee. Consider your particular needs before committing to a plan.
Coverage
Most home warranty companies can tailor a plan to your needs. Make a list of the appliances and systems that you use often and would like covered. If you only need coverage for select systems or appliances (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 cover only normal wear and tear, which excludes preexisting conditions and improper installation. Most policies also exclude cosmetic issues or appliance components, routine maintenance, theft, or defects. Providers outline exclusions and limitations within their service contracts. We recommend reading carefully to fully understand the terms and conditions of your plan.
Provider Reputation
Carefully consider a provider's reputation before choosing a plan. Check its Better Business Bureau rating. Also read customer reviews on sites like Google Reviews, Best Company, and Trustpilot. These reviews can give you an idea of how providers handle claims and customer service. Check with the California Department of Consumer Affairs to verify that a provider holds a valid state license.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's service provider network. Ask your company how and where it sources technicians. All reputable companies should use licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. We recommend picking 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 La Quinta
Do I need a home warranty in La Quinta?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is La Quinta's best home warranty provider?
Can I get a home warranty that covers 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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