Are Home Warranties Worth It for Winter Haven Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for Winter Haven residents. Summers in Winter Haven are very hot, which makes it extremely important that your air conditioner is working well. However, this system can malfunction over time from heavy use.
Winter Haven 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 are comparatively cheaper, costing roughly $644–$737 annually, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies nationwide.
The frequent rain in Winter Haven can damage your home's roof. The financial burden of this will be lessened if your home warranty has roof-leak coverage. Finally, home warranties connect you with trustworthy service providers.
When life is keeping you busy, you want to know that a reliable technician is handling your repairs. Reputable home warranty companies vet every service provider they work with.
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 per month. You'll also pay a service call fee every time you file a claim. Service call fees typically range from $65–$125 per claim. A basic home warranty is generally more affordable than a comprehensive one. Appliance plans are typically less costly than home systems coverage plans. With most plans, you can get add-on coverage options for an additional monthly fee. Consider your specific needs before purchasing a plan.
Coverage
Most home warranty companies can tailor a plan to your needs. Think about which systems and appliances you use often and want coverage for. If you only want coverage for select systems or appliances (such as your air conditioning), you can often find plans to fit. 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 damage from normal wear and tear. This doesn't include improper installation or preexisting conditions. Most policies also won't cover appliance components or cosmetic issues, defects, theft, or routine maintenance. Providers outline their exclusions and limitations in their service contracts. Read your contract thoroughly to make sure you understand the terms and conditions of your plan.
Provider Reputation
Consider provider reputation when making a decision. You can also read real customer reviews on sites such as Best Company, Google Reviews, and Trustpilot. Customer reviews can give you a sense of how providers handle claims and customer service. Check with the Florida Division of Consumer Services to verify a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's network of service providers. The provider you choose should use licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests; make sure to ask your company where and how it sources technicians. Select a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Homeowners in rural areas might prefer home warranty policies that allow customers to choose their technicians. There may not be any in-network service providers in these areas, so you'll want the option to choose your own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Winter Haven
Do I need a home warranty in Winter Haven?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Winter Haven'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 do I file a claim with my home warranty provider?
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