Are Home Warranties Worth It for Urbana Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Urbana residents. Summers in Urbana can have some very hot days, which means it's important that your air conditioner works well. However, this system can malfunction over time due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Winters in Urbana are very cold, meaning you rely on your heating system often. Replacing your HVAC system can cost between $2,500 and $8,000, compared to a home warranty costing roughly $644–$737 annually based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies nationwide. The regular rain in Urbana 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 reliable service providers. Reputable home warranty companies vet every service provider they use.
If you're busy with work or other priorities, investing in a home warranty ensures a trustworthy technician will fix your issue.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Think about the following factors to determine the right home warranty plan for your needs.
Cost
After getting 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home, we determined that home warranties cost roughly $53–$62 a month. You'll also pay a service call fee each time you file a claim. These fees typically range from $65–$125 per claim. A basic home warranty is more affordable than a comprehensive one. Home systems coverage plans tend to cost more than appliance plans. Most plans offer add-on coverage options for an additional monthly fee. Consider your specific needs before purchasing a plan.
Coverage
Figure out which systems and appliances you use most frequently. Most home warranty plans offer custom 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 need coverage for select appliances. The following 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 only cover normal wear and tear. They don't cover improper installation or preexisting conditions. In addition, home warranties don't cover cosmetic issues or appliance components, theft, defects, or routine maintenance. Providers outline their limitations and exclusions in their service contracts. Read your contract thoroughly to make sure you understand the terms and conditions of your plan.
Provider Reputation
Also, consider a provider's reputation when choosing a plan. You can read customer reviews on sites like Best Company, Google Reviews, and Trustpilot or look at a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Ratings and reviews are a great way to assess how providers handle customer service and claims. Check with the Illinois Attorney General to verify the status of a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's network of service providers. Ask where and how it sources technicians—reputable companies should always use licensed and registered contractors. Select a provider that mentions the names of familiar contractors. Residents of rural areas should consider a home warranty policy that allows the customer to choose their technician. Rural areas may not have any in-network service providers available, so customers may need to source their own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Urbana
Do I need a home warranty in Urbana?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in Urbana?
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 long does a home warranty typically last?
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