Are Home Warranties Worth It for San Rafael Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for San Rafael residents. San Rafael summers can get hot, which makes it important to have a reliable air conditioner. However, this system can malfunction over time from heavy use.
San Rafael has relatively mild winters, but there are still days you'll need your heating. The cost of an HVAC system replacement can range anywhere from $2,500–$8,000. A home warranty plan is comparatively cheaper, only $644–$737 annually, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies across the nation.
San Rafael's regular rain showers can also affect your roof. Some home warranty providers offer limited roof-leak coverage to ease the financial burden of repair. Lastly, home warranties connect you with reliable service providers.
Reputable home warranty companies vet all their service providers. If you don't have time to do the research yourself, investing in a home warranty ensures a trustworthy technician will fix your issue.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Think about these key factors when choosing your home warranty plan.
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 that apply whenever you file a claim. These fees range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranties cost less than comprehensive ones, and appliance plans cost less than home systems coverage plans. You can get add-on coverage options, but this will increase your monthly cost—consider your specific needs before committing to a plan.
Coverage
Figure out which appliances and systems you use most often. Most home warranty providers offer customizable coverage tailored to your needs. If you only need coverage for certain systems, like your air conditioner, most companies offer systems-only plans. The same is true if you only want coverage for certain appliances. 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 cover only normal wear and tear, which excludes preexisting conditions and improper installation. Most policies also exclude cosmetic issues or appliance components, theft, defects, or routine maintenance. Each provider outlines exclusions and limitations within its service contract. Make sure you read it and understand your protection plan's exact terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Provider reputation is another key factor to consider. You can read customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and Best Company or check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Ratings and reviews can give you 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 license with the state.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's network of service providers. Quality home warranty providers source licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests. We suggest asking a provider how and where it sources technicians. Choose a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Residents of rural areas should consider choosing a home warranty provider that lets customers choose their technicians. It's important to have the option to source your own providers if there are no in-network ones available in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in San Rafael
Is a home warranty required in San Rafael?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is San Rafael'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 long does a home warranty typically last?
How do I file a claim with my home warranty provider?
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