Are Home Warranties Worth It for Santa Maria Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for Santa Maria residents. Santa Maria summers are very hot, which makes it very important for your air conditioner to work properly. However, over time this system can malfunction from heavy use.
Winters in Santa Maria are fairly mild, but there will still be days when you rely on your heating. HVAC system replacement can cost anywhere between $2,500 and $8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, run about $644–$737 per year, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies across the nation.
Even the infrequent rain in Santa Maria can damage your home's roof. The financial burden of this will be lessened if your home warranty has roof-leak coverage. Lastly, home warranties connect you with trusted service providers.
Reputable home warranty companies vet each service provider they work with. If you don't have time to do the research yourself, investing in a home warranty ensures you have access to trustworthy technicians.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Think about these key factors when picking the best home warranty plan for you.
Cost
After getting 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home, we determined that home warranties cost roughly $53–$62 a month. Additionally, you'll pay a service call fee whenever you file a claim. These fees can range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans are generally more affordable than comprehensive ones. A home systems coverage plan will usually cost more than an appliance plan. You can often get add-on coverage for an additional monthly cost. Be sure you know what you need before choosing a plan.
Coverage
Figure out which systems and appliances you use the most. You'll want a home warranty plan that covers these items. Most plans can be tailored to your needs, and many companies offer systems-only plans for homeowners that only want select coverage (such as for air conditioning). You can also get a plan that only covers select appliances. 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
Home warranties generally only cover damage from normal wear and tear. This doesn't include improper installation or preexisting conditions. Most policies will also not cover cosmetic issues or appliance components, theft, routine maintenance, or defects. Each provider will outline its limitations and exclusions in your service contract. Read your contract thoroughly to fully understand the terms and conditions of your plan.
Provider Reputation
Look into a provider's reputation before committing to a plan. Check its Better Business Bureau rating. You can also read customer reviews on sites such as Best Company, Trustpilot, and Google Reviews. These reviews can give you an idea of how companies 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 network of service providers. Your provider should always use licensed and registered contractors to handle 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 Santa Maria
Do I need a home warranty in Santa Maria?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Santa Maria'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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