Are Home Warranties Worth It for Arlington Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Arlington residents. Arlington 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 due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Arlington 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 received from home warranty companies across the nation.
Arlington's heavy rain can also affect your home's roof. Some home warranty companies offer limited roof-leak coverage to ease the financial burden of 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 all their service providers.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Consider these key factors to determine the best home warranty for your needs.
Cost
We received 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and found that home warranties cost roughly $53–$62 per month. You'll also pay service call fees each 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 warranty companies can tailor a plan to your needs. Think about which systems and appliances you use often and would like coverage for. If you only want coverage for select systems or appliances (such as your heating), you can often find plans to fit. 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
Home warranties typically only cover damage from normal wear and tear. This doesn't include improper installation or preexisting conditions. Most policies will also not cover appliance components or cosmetic issues, defects, routine maintenance, or theft. Providers outline their exclusions and limitations in their service contracts. Thoroughly read your contract to ensure you understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
You should also consider a provider's reputation. You can also read customer reviews on sites like Best Company, Google Reviews, and Trustpilot. Ratings and reviews can show you how a company handles claims and customer service. Check with the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation to verify a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's network of service providers. Your company should always use licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. Make sure you ask how and where a company sources its technicians. Choose a provider that mentions service contractors you're familiar with. Residents of rural areas should consider choosing a home warranty provider that lets customers choose their technicians. You'll want the option to source your own providers if no in-network ones are available in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Arlington
Do I need a home warranty in Arlington?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Arlington's best home warranty provider?
Do home warranties cover other types of home items?
Why do home warranties have a waiting period before coverage begins?
How long does a home warranty typically last?
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