Are Home Warranties Worth It for Oswego Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for Oswego residents. Oswego can have fairly hot days during the summer, and you probably use your air conditioner frequently during warmer months. Your air conditioning system can malfunction over time due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Winters in Oswego are very cold, which means having reliable heating is important. HVAC system replacement can cost anywhere between $2,500 and $8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, run about $644–$737 annually, based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies across the nation.
Oswego's regular rain showers can also affect your roof. Some home warranty companies offer limited roof-leak coverage to financially assist with repair. Finally, home warranties connect you with reliable 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 a trustworthy technician will fix your issue.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Consider these key factors when choosing the right home warranty plan for you.
Cost
We requested 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and found that home warranties cost an average of $53–$62 per month. You'll also pay service call fees whenever you file a claim. These fees range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans are typically 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 purchasing a plan.
Coverage
Figure out which appliances and systems you use the most. Most home warranties offer customizable coverage tailored to your needs. If you only want coverage for certain systems, such as your heating, most providers offer systems-only plans. The same is true if you only want coverage for certain 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
Home warranties generally only cover breakdowns from normal wear and tear. This doesn't include preexisting conditions or improper installation. Most policies will also not cover appliance components or cosmetic issues, theft, defects, or routine maintenance. Each provider outlines exclusions and limitations within its service contract. We recommend reading it to understand your protection plan's exact terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Look into a provider's reputation before choosing 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 providers handle claims and customer service. Check with the Illinois Attorney General to verify that a provider holds a valid state license.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's service provider network. The company you choose should use licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests; make sure to ask your company how and where it sources technicians. Select a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Rural homeowners might prefer home warranty policies with the option to choose their technicians. There may not be any in-network service providers in these areas, and you'll want the option to choose your own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Oswego
Is a home warranty required in Oswego?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Oswego's best home warranty provider?
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 long does a home warranty typically last?
How can I maximize the value of my home warranty?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.