Are Home Warranties Worth It for Wheaton Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for Wheaton residents. Wheaton summers can have some very hot days, which means it's important that your air conditioner works well. However, over time this system can malfunction due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Wheaton also has cold winters, meaning your heating system is working constantly during the colder months. The cost of replacing your HVAC system can range between $2,500 and $8,000. Home warranties are comparatively cheaper at only $644–$737 annually, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies across the nation.
The regular rain in Wheaton can cause damage to your roof. Some home warranty policies include limited roof-leak coverage, which can ease the financial burden of roof repair. Lastly, home warranties connect you with reliable technicians.
When work and other priorities keep you busy, you want to know a trustworthy service provider is handling your repairs. Reputable home warranty companies vet every service provider they work with.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Consider these important factors when picking the best home warranty plan for you.
Cost
After getting 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home, we determined that home warranties cost an average of $53–$62 per month. Additionally, you'll pay a service call fee every time you file a claim. Service call fees range from $65–$125 per 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 your specific needs before purchasing a plan.
Coverage
Most home warranties can be somewhat customized to your needs. Think about which appliances and systems you use often and need coverage for. If you only need coverage for select systems or appliances (such as your heating), you can often find plans to fit. 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 breakdowns from normal wear and tear. They don't cover preexisting conditions or improper installation. In addition, home warranties don't cover appliance components or cosmetic issues, routine maintenance, defects, or theft. Providers will outline limitations and exclusions in their service contracts. Thoroughly read your contract to ensure you understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Also, consider a provider's reputation when making a decision. You can read customer reviews on sites such as 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 learn 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
Consider a home warranty company's service provider network. Trustworthy home warranty companies source licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests. We suggest asking a provider how and where it sources technicians. Select a provider that mentions service contractors you're familiar with. Those residing in rural areas should consider a home warranty policy that lets them choose their technician. You may not have any in-network service providers in your area, so you'll need the option to source your own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Wheaton
Is a home warranty required in Wheaton?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in Wheaton?
Do home warranties cover other types of home items?
Why is there a waiting period before my home warranty coverage begins?
How do I file a claim with my home warranty provider?
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