Are Home Warranties Worth It for Oxnard Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Oxnard residents. Oxnard experiences hot summers, and you probably use your air conditioner constantly during the warmer months. Your air conditioning system can malfunction over time from heavy use.
Oxnard has fairly mild winters, but it's still important to make sure your heating works when needed. The cost of replacing your HVAC system 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 requested from home warranty companies across the nation.
Even Oxnard's irregular rain can affect your home's roof. Some home warranty providers offer limited roof-leak coverage to ease the financial burden of repair. Lastly, home warranties connect you with trusted service providers.
Reputable home warranty companies vet each service provider they work with. If you're busy with work or other priorities, investing in a home warranty ensures a trustworthy technician will fix your issue.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Consider the following factors when selecting the best home warranty for your needs.
Cost
We received 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and determined that home warranties cost roughly $53–$62 per month. You'll also pay service call fees each time you file a claim. Service call fees range from $65–$125 per claim. Comprehensive home warranties cost more than basic ones, and home systems coverage plans cost more than appliance plans. You can select add-on coverage options, but these will increase your monthly cost. Consider your specific needs before selecting a plan.
Coverage
You can often find home warranty plans that cover specific systems and appliances. Determine whether you want coverage for major systems (such as air conditioning), specific appliances, or both. Then ask your provider what its options are 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 only cover breakdowns from normal wear and tear. They don't cover improper installation or preexisting conditions. In addition, home warranties don't cover cosmetic issues or appliance components, theft, defects, or routine maintenance. Providers will outline exclusions and limitations in their service contracts. Read your contract thoroughly to make sure you understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Also, consider a provider's reputation when making a decision. You can read customer reviews on sites like Best Company, Trustpilot, and Google Reviews or look at a company's rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Ratings and reviews are a great way to assess how providers handle 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
Consider a home warranty company's service provider network. Your provider should always use licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. Make sure you ask where and how a company sources its technicians. Choose a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Homeowners in rural areas should consider a home warranty policy that allows the customer to choose their technician. There may be no in-network service providers available in these areas, so customers may need to source their own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Oxnard
Do I need a home warranty in Oxnard?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in Oxnard?
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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