Are Home Warranties Worth It for Des Moines Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for Des Moines residents. Summers in Des Moines can get hot, which makes it important to have a reliable air conditioner. However, over time this system can malfunction due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Des Moines 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 received from home warranty companies across the nation.
The regular rain in Des Moines 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, a home warranty connects you with service providers you can trust.
Investing in a reputable home warranty company is worth it because companies vet their technicians. If you're focused on work or other priorities, your home warranty provider can give you peace of mind that someone reliable will handle your issue.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
These key factors can help you determine the best home warranty plan for your needs.
Cost
We pulled 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and determined that home warranties cost roughly $53–$62 per month. You'll also pay service call fees whenever you file a claim. Service call fees range from $65–$125 per claim. A basic home warranty is more affordable than a comprehensive one. Appliance plans are typically less expensive than home systems coverage plans. Most plans give you the option of getting add-on coverage options for an additional monthly fee. Consider your specific needs before choosing a plan.
Coverage
You can look for a home warranty plan that covers specific systems and appliances. Decide whether you want coverage for major systems (such as heating), specific appliances, or for both. Then ask your provider what its options are for customized coverage. 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
Most home warranties only cover normal wear and tear. They don't cover preexisting conditions or improper installation. In addition, home warranties don't cover cosmetic issues or appliance components, theft, routine maintenance, or defects. You can read about your provider's limitations and exclusions within your service contract. Read carefully to ensure you understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Look into a provider's reputation before committing to a plan. Check its Better Business Bureau rating. In addition, read customer reviews on sites like Trustpilot, Best Company, and Google Reviews. These reviews can give you an idea of how providers handle customer service and claims. Check with the Iowa Consumer Protection Division to verify the status of a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's network of service providers. Reputable home warranty providers source licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. We suggest asking a provider where and how it sources technicians. We recommend picking a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Residents of rural areas should consider a home warranty policy that allows the customer to choose their technician. There may be no in-network service providers available in these areas, and customers might need to source their own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Des Moines
Is a home warranty required in Des Moines?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Des Moines' 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 can I maximize the value of my home warranty?
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