Are Home Warranties Worth It for Lake Elsinore Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Lake Elsinore residents. Lake Elsinore summers are very hot, which makes it extremely important that your air conditioner works well. However, over time this system can malfunction from heavy use.
Winters in Lake Elsinore are fairly mild, but you still want a reliable heating system. Replacing your HVAC system can cost anywhere from $2,500–$8,000, compared to a home warranty coming in at around $644–$737 annually based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies across the nation. Even in Lake Elsinore, over time rain can damage your roof.
Some home warranty policies include limited roof-leak coverage, which can ease the financial burden of roof 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
These important factors can help you choose 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 also have to pay service call fees each time you file a claim. These fees range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans generally cost less than comprehensive ones. Home systems coverage plans usually cost more than appliance plans. Consider your specific needs before choosing a plan, as getting add-on coverage options will raise the monthly price.
Coverage
Most home warranties can be somewhat customized to your needs. Think about which appliances and systems you use often and need coverage for. If you only want 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
Most home warranties only cover damage from normal wear and tear. They don't cover preexisting conditions or improper installation. Additionally, home warranties don't cover cosmetic issues or appliance components, routine maintenance, defects, or theft. 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 provider reputation when making a decision. You can also read real customer reviews on sites such as Google Reviews, Trustpilot, and Best Company. These reviews can give you a sense of how companies handle claims and customer service. Check with the California Department of Consumer Affairs to verify the status of a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's network of service providers. Reliable home warranty companies source licensed and registered contractors to handle 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 going with a home warranty provider that customers choose their technician. Rural areas may not have any in-network service providers available, so customers may need to source their own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Lake Elsinore
Is a home warranty required in Lake Elsinore?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Lake Elsinore's best home warranty provider?
Do home warranties cover 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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