Are Home Warranties Worth It for Coeur d'Alene Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for Coeur d'Alene residents. Coeur d'Alene 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.
Winters in Coeur d'Alene are very cold, which means having reliable heating is important. HVAC system replacement can cost from $2,500 to $8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, run about $644–$737 annually, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies across the nation.
The regular rain in Coeur d'Alene can damage your home's roof. The financial burden of this will be lessened if you have a home warranty with roof-leak coverage. Lastly, home warranties connect you with trusted 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
These key factors can help you choose the best home warranty plan for your needs.
Cost
We requested 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and determined that the average home warranty cost is $53–$62 per month. You'll also pay a service call fee of between $65–$125 whenever you file a claim. Basic home warranty plans tend to be 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 your specific needs before choosing a plan.
Coverage
You can often find home warranty plans that cover specific systems and appliances. Decide whether you need coverage for major systems (like heating), specific appliances, or for both. Then ask your provider about its options for customized coverage. 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 cover only normal wear and tear, which excludes improper installation and preexisting conditions. Additionally, most policies will exclude appliance components or cosmetic issues, theft, routine maintenance, or defects. Each provider outlines exclusions and limitations within its service contract. Make sure you read it and understand your plan's exact terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Provider reputation is another important factor to consider. You can find customer reviews on sites such as Best Company, Google Reviews, and Trustpilot or check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Reviews and ratings can provide insight into how a company handles customer service and claims. Check with the Idaho Consumer Protection Division to verify the status of a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's service provider network. Providers should always send licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. Make sure you ask where and how a company sources its technicians. If you can, use a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Residents of rural areas might consider choosing a home warranty provider that lets customers select their technicians. You'll want the option to source your own providers if no in-network ones are available in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Coeur d'Alene
Is a home warranty required in Coeur d'Alene?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in Coeur d'Alene?
Can I get a home warranty that covers 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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