Are Home Warranties Worth It for Hartford Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Hartford residents. Hartford can have fairly hot days during the summer, and you probably use your air conditioner frequently during the warmer months. Your air conditioner can malfunction over time due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Hartford also has cold winters, meaning your heating system is working constantly during the colder months. The cost of an HVAC system replacement can range between $2,500 and $8,000. Home warranties are comparatively cheaper at only $644–$737 a year, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies nationwide.
The frequent rain in Hartford can damage your home's roof. The cost of repairs will be lower if you have a home warranty with roof-leak coverage. Finally, home warranties connect you with reliable service providers.
Reputable home warranty companies vet every service provider they use. If life keeps you busy, 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 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 an average of $53–$62 monthly. You'll also pay a service call fee each time you file a claim. These fees typically 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. Add-on coverage options raise the monthly cost, so consider your particular needs before purchasing a plan.
Coverage
Figure out which appliances and systems you use the most. You want your home warranty plan to cover these items. Most home warranties can be customized to your needs, and many providers offer systems-only plans for those who only want select coverage (such as for heating). You can also find plans that cover only select 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 only cover damage from normal wear and tear. They don't cover improper installation or preexisting conditions. Additionally, home warranties don't cover appliance components or cosmetic issues, theft, routine maintenance, or defects. Providers outline limitations and exclusions in their service contracts. We recommend reading carefully to fully understand the terms and conditions of your plan.
Provider Reputation
Provider reputation is another important factor to consider. You can read real customer reviews on sites like Google Reviews, Trustpilot, 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 customer service and claims. Check with the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection to verify a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's network of service providers. Trustworthy home warranty providers source licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. We suggest asking a provider where and how it sources technicians. Select a provider that mentions service contractors you're familiar with. 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, and customers may need to source their own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Hartford
Is a home warranty required in Hartford?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Hartford's best home warranty provider?
Do home warranties cover other types of home items?
Why do home warranties have a waiting period before coverage begins?
How is a home warranty different from homeowners insurance?
How do I file a claim with my home warranty provider?
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