Are Home Warranties Worth It for Haverhill Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for Haverhill residents. Haverhill generally has mild temperatures, but you may still use your air conditioner frequently during the warmer months. Your air conditioning system may malfunction over time due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Winters in Haverhill are very cold, which means having reliable heating is important. HVAC system replacement can cost anywhere between $2,500 and $8,000. Home warranties are comparatively cheaper, costing roughly $644–$737 per year, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies across the nation.
Haverhill's heavy rain can damage your home's roof. Some home warranty companies offer limited roof-leak coverage, which can ease the financial burden of roof repair. 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 ensure that someone reliable will handle your issue.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
These important factors can help you determine the best 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 an average of $53–$62 a month. You'll also pay a service call fee every time you file a claim. Service call fees can range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans are more affordable than comprehensive ones. Appliance plans are typically less costly than home systems coverage plans. With most plans, you can get add-on coverage options for an additional monthly cost. Consider your particular needs before choosing a plan.
Coverage
Most home warranties can be somewhat customized to your needs. Make a list of the appliances and systems that you use often and want coverage for. If you only want coverage for select appliances or systems (such as your heating), you can often find plans to fit. 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, theft, routine maintenance, or defects. Providers outline limitations and exclusions in their service contracts. Make sure you read yours carefully to fully understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Also, consider a provider's reputation when making a decision. You can read customer reviews on sites like Trustpilot, Best Company, and Google Reviews or look at a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Reviews and ratings are a great way to see how providers handle customer service and claims. Check with the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation to verify that a provider holds a license with the state.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's service provider network. Make sure to ask how and where it sources technicians—reputable providers should always use licensed and registered contractors. We recommend picking a provider that mentions contractors you're familiar with. Homeowners in rural areas should consider a home warranty policy that lets them choose their 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 Haverhill
Is a home warranty required in Haverhill?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Haverhill'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 long does a home warranty typically last?
How can I maximize the value of my home warranty?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.