Are Home Warranties Worth It for Battle Creek Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Battle Creek residents. Summers in Battle Creek can get hot, which makes it important for your air conditioner to work properly. However, this system can malfunction over time due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Battle Creek also has cold winters, meaning your heating system is working constantly during the colder months. The cost of replacing your HVAC system can range between $2,500 and $8,000. Home warranties are comparatively cheaper at only $644–$737 annually, based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies across the nation.
The regular rain in Battle Creek 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, home warranties connect you with trustworthy service providers.
Reputable home warranty companies vet all their service providers. If life keeps you busy, investing in a home warranty ensures a trustworthy technician will fix your issue.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
These key factors can help you select 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 roughly $53–$62 monthly. Additionally, you'll pay a service call fee whenever you file a claim. These fees typically 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 selecting a plan.
Coverage
Determine the systems and appliances you use most often. Most home warranty plans offer custom coverage tailored to your needs. If you only need coverage for select systems, such as your heating, most providers offer systems-only plans. The same is true if you only want coverage for certain 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
Most home warranties only cover breakdowns from normal wear and tear. They don't cover preexisting conditions or improper installation. In addition, home warranties don't cover appliance components or cosmetic issues, defects, routine maintenance, or theft. Providers outline exclusions and limitations in their service contracts. We recommend reading carefully to fully understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Also, consider a provider's reputation when choosing a plan. You can read customer reviews on sites like Best Company, Trustpilot, and Google Reviews or look at a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Reviews and ratings are a great way to learn how providers handle claims and customer service. Check with the Michigan Attorney General to verify that a provider holds a valid state license.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's network of service providers. The company you choose should use licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests; make sure to ask your company how and where it sources technicians. Choose a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Residents of rural areas should consider a home warranty policy that allows the customer to choose their technician. There may be no in-network service providers available in these areas, so customers might need to source their own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Battle Creek
Is a home warranty required in Battle Creek?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Battle Creek'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 is a home warranty different from homeowners insurance?
How do I file a claim with my home warranty provider?
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