Are Home Warranties Worth It for Santa Clarita Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for Santa Clarita residents. Santa Clarita experiences hot summers, and you probably use your air conditioner constantly during warmer months. Your air conditioner may malfunction over time from heavy use.
Santa Clarita 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 between $2,500 and $8,000. A home warranty plan is comparatively cheaper, only $644–$737 per year, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies across the nation.
Even Santa Clarita'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 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
Consider these important factors when picking the best home warranty plan for you.
Cost
We received 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and discovered 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. Basic home warranty plans are generally more affordable than comprehensive ones. Appliance plans are more affordable than home systems coverage plans. 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
Many home warranty companies offer plans for select appliances or systems. Determine which systems and appliances you use most often before purchasing a plan. If you only want coverage for certain major systems (such as air conditioning) or certain appliances, you can find a plan that meets your needs. 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
Home warranties generally only cover normal wear and tear. This doesn't include improper installation or preexisting conditions. Most policies will also not cover cosmetic issues or appliance components, routine maintenance, theft, or defects. 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 Trustpilot, Best Company, and Google Reviews. Looking at reviews can show you how providers handle customer service and claims. Check with the California Department of Consumer Affairs to verify that a provider holds a license with the state.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's service provider network. The company you choose should use licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests; make sure to ask your company how and where it sources technicians. We recommend picking a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Residents of rural areas may consider choosing a home warranty provider that lets customers select their technicians. It's good 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 Santa Clarita
Is a home warranty required in Santa Clarita?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in Santa Clarita?
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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