Are Home Warranties Worth It for Waterloo Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worthwhile for Waterloo residents. Waterloo 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.
Waterloo winters are very cold, which means having reliable heating is important. HVAC system replacement can cost from $2,500 to $8,000. Home warranties are comparatively cheaper, costing roughly $644–$737 per year, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies nationwide.
The regular rain in Waterloo 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 trusted 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 these key factors when selecting your home warranty plan.
Cost
After getting 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home, we determined that home warranties cost roughly $53–$62 per month. You'll also pay a service call fee each time you file a claim. Service call fees can range from $65–$125 per claim. A basic home warranty is more affordable than a comprehensive one. Appliance plans are typically less costly 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 purchasing a plan.
Coverage
Determine the appliances and systems you use most often. Most home warranties offer customizable 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 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
Typically, home warranties don't cover preexisting conditions or improper installation. Most policies will only cover breakdowns from normal wear and tear. Most will also exclude appliance components or cosmetic issues, routine maintenance, theft, or defects. Providers outline exclusions and limitations in their service contracts. We recommend reading carefully to fully understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Consider provider reputation when making a decision. You can also read real customer reviews on sites such as Best Company, Google Reviews, and Trustpilot. These reviews can show you how providers handle claims and customer service. Check with the Iowa Consumer Protection Division to verify that a provider holds a license with the state.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's network of service providers. Companies should always send licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. Make sure you ask where and how a company sources its technicians. Select a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Rural homeowners might consider choosing a home warranty provider that lets customers pick their technicians. It's important to have the option to source your own providers if no in-network ones are available in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Waterloo
Do I need a home warranty in Waterloo?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Waterloo's best home warranty provider?
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?
How long does a home warranty typically last?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.