Are Home Warranties Worth It for Wichita Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Wichita residents. Summers in Wichita are very hot, which makes it extremely important that your air conditioner works well. However, this system can malfunction over time from heavy use.
Wichita winters can be fairly mild, but there are still times when you want to have a reliable heating system. 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 requested from home warranty companies across the nation. The regular rain in Wichita can damage your home's roof.
The financial burden of this will be lessened if you have a home warranty with roof-leak coverage. Finally, your home warranty will connect you with service providers you can trust. A reputable home warranty is a good investment because companies vet their technicians.
If you don't have time to do the research yourself, 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 choose the right home warranty plan for your needs.
Cost
We pulled 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and found that the average home warranty costs between $53–$62 per month. You also have to pay service call fees whenever you file a claim. These fees range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans tend to be more affordable than comprehensive ones. Appliance plans are more affordable than home systems coverage plans. 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
Many home warranty companies offer systems-only plans or plans for select appliances. Determine which systems and appliances you use most often before selecting a plan. If you only want coverage for certain major systems (such as air conditioning) or specific appliances, you can find a plan that meets your needs. 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 cover only normal wear and tear, which excludes improper installation and preexisting conditions. Most policies also exclude appliance components or cosmetic issues, defects, routine maintenance, or theft. Providers outline exclusions and limitations with their service contracts. We recommend reading it to understand your plan's specific terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Also, consider provider reputation when choosing a plan. You can find customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot, Best Company, and Google Reviews or look at a company's rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Ratings and reviews are a great way to learn how providers handle customer service and claims. Check with the Kansas Attorney General to verify that a provider holds a valid state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's network of service providers. Make sure to ask how and where it sources technicians—reputable companies should always use licensed and registered contractors. Choose a provider that mentions contractors you're familiar with. Residents of rural areas should consider choosing a home warranty that lets them select 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 Wichita
Do I need a home warranty in Wichita?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Wichita'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?
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