Are Home Warranties Worth It for Orlando Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Orlando residents. Orlando experiences hot summers, and you probably use your air conditioner constantly during the warmer months. Your air conditioner can malfunction over time from heavy use.
Orlando winters are fairly mild, but there will still be days when you rely on your heating. HVAC system replacement can cost from $2,500 to $8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, run about $644–$737 per year, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies nationwide.
Orlando's heavy rain can also affect your home's roof. Some home warranty providers offer limited roof-leak coverage to ease the financial burden of repair. Finally, home warranties connect you with trusted 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 important factors when picking your home warranty plan.
Cost
We received 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and determined that home warranties cost an average of $53–$62 per month. There are also service call fees each time you file a claim. These fees range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans are more affordable than comprehensive ones. Appliance plans are typically less costly than home systems coverage plans. Most plans give you the option of getting add-on coverage options for an additional monthly cost. 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 plans can be customized 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 find plans that cover only 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 usually only cover breakdowns 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. Providers outline exclusions and limitations in their service contracts. We recommend reading carefully to fully understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Also, consider a provider's reputation when making a decision. You can find customer reviews on sites like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and Best Company or look at a company's rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Ratings and reviews are a great way to learn how providers handle customer service and claims. Check with the Florida Division of Consumer Services to verify that a provider holds a valid state license.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's service provider network. Your company should always send licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests. Make sure you ask how and where a company sources its technicians. We recommend picking a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Rural homeowners may prefer home warranty policies with the option to choose their technicians. In-network service providers may be unavailable in these areas, and you'll want the option to choose your own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Orlando
Do I need a home warranty in Orlando?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Orlando'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?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.