Are Home Warranties Worth It for Germantown Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for Germantown residents. Germantown summers can have some very hot days, which means it's important that your air conditioner is working well. However, this system can malfunction over time from heavy use.
Winters in Germantown can be mild, but there are still days when you rely on your heating. HVAC system replacement can cost anywhere between $2,500 and $8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, run about $644–$737 per year, based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies across the nation.
The regular rain in Germantown can damage your roof. The financial burden of this will be lessened if you have a home warranty with roof-leak coverage. Finally, home warranties connect you with trustworthy service providers.
When life is keeping you busy, you want to know that a reliable technician is handling your repairs. Reputable home warranty companies vet every service provider they work with.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
These important factors can help you select 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 can range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans are more affordable than comprehensive ones. Appliance plans are typically less expensive than home systems coverage plans. Most plans offer add-on coverage options for an additional monthly cost. Consider your particular needs before choosing a plan.
Coverage
Determine the systems and appliances you use the most. Most home warranty plans offer customizable coverage tailored to your needs. If you only need coverage for select systems, such as your air conditioner, most providers offer systems-only plans. The same is true if you only need coverage for certain 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 will outline limitations and exclusions in their service contracts. Thoroughly read your contract to make sure you understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Provider reputation is another important factor to consider. You can find real customer reviews on sites like Best Company, Google Reviews, and Trustpilot or check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Ratings and reviews can give you insight into how a company handles claims and customer service. Check with the Maryland Consumer Protection Division to verify that a provider holds a valid state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's network of service providers. Trustworthy home warranty providers source licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. We suggest asking a provider where and how it sources technicians. Choose a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Homeowners in rural areas should consider a home warranty that allows you to choose your technician. In-network service providers may not be available in your area, so you'll need the option to source your own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Germantown
Do I need a home warranty in Germantown?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Germantown'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 do I file a claim with my home warranty provider?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.