Are Home Warranties Worth It for Rockford Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for Rockford residents. Rockford 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 Rockford 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.
The regular rain in Rockford can damage your home's roof. The cost of repairs will be lower if your home warranty has roof-leak coverage. Finally, home warranties connect you with trusted service providers.
Reputable home warranty companies vet each service provider they work with. If you're busy with work or other priorities, investing in a home warranty ensures you have access to trustworthy technicians.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Think about the following factors when selecting the best home warranty for your needs.
Cost
We pulled 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home. From this we determined that home warranties cost an average of $53–$62 per month. Additionally, you'll pay a service call fee of approximately $65–$125 each time 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. Many plans have add-on coverage options, but this will increase your monthly cost, so make sure you know what you need before choosing a plan.
Coverage
Determine the systems and appliances you use most frequently. Most home warranty providers offer custom coverage tailored to your needs. If you only need coverage for select systems, like your heating, most providers offer systems-only plans. The same is true if you only need 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
Usually, home warranties don't cover preexisting conditions or improper installation. Most policies will only cover normal wear and tear. Most also exclude cosmetic issues or appliance components, theft, routine maintenance, or defects. Providers outline limitations and exclusions within their service contracts. We recommend reading carefully to fully understand the terms and conditions of your plan.
Provider Reputation
Provider reputation is another key factor to consider. You can browse real customer reviews on sites such as Google Reviews, Best Company, and Trustpilot or check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Ratings and reviews can give you insight into how a company handles claims and customer service. Check with the Illinois Attorney General to verify that a provider holds a license with the state.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's service provider network. Ask your provider how and where it sources technicians. All reputable companies should use licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. Select a provider that mentions service contractors you're familiar with. Those who live in rural areas should consider a home warranty policy that lets them choose their technician. In-network service providers may not be available in your area, so you want the option to source your own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Rockford
Is a home warranty required in Rockford?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in Rockford?
Do home warranties cover other types of home items?
Why is there a waiting period before my home warranty coverage begins?
How is a home warranty different from homeowners insurance?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.