Are Home Warranties Worth It for St. Charles Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for St. Charles residents. Summers in St. Charles can get hot, which makes it important to have a reliable air conditioner. However, this system can malfunction over time due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Winters in St. Charles 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 per year, based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies nationwide.
The regular rain in St. Charles 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 reliable service providers.
Reputable home warranty companies vet all their service providers. If life keeps you busy, 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 and determined that the average home warranty costs between $53–$62 per month. You also have to pay service call fees each time 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. Most plans offer add-on coverage, but this will increase your monthly cost. Make sure you know what you need before choosing a plan.
Coverage
Figure out which systems and appliances you use the most. Most home warranty plans offer customizable coverage tailored to your needs. If you only want coverage for certain systems, like your heating, most companies offer systems-only plans. The same is true if you only want coverage for select 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 typically only cover breakdowns 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, theft, routine maintenance, or defects. Providers will outline limitations and exclusions in their service contracts. Thoroughly read your contract 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 Trustpilot, Best Company, and Google Reviews. Looking at reviews can give you a sense of how providers handle 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. Your company should always send licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. Make sure you ask how and where a company sources its technicians. We recommend picking a provider that mentions service contractors you're familiar with. Rural homeowners should consider choosing a home warranty that lets them select their technician. Rural areas may not have any in-network service providers available, and customers might need to source their own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in St. Charles
Do I need a home warranty in St. Charles?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is St. Charles' best home warranty provider?
Can I get a home warranty that covers 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?
How can I maximize the value of my home warranty?
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