Are Home Warranties Worth It for Chesterfield Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for Chesterfield residents. Chesterfield can have fairly hot days during the summer, and you probably use your air conditioner frequently during warmer months. Your air conditioning system can malfunction over time due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Chesterfield also has cold winters, meaning your heating system is working constantly during the colder months. The cost of replacing your HVAC system can range anywhere from $2,500–$8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, come in at only $644–$737 annually, based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies across the nation.
The regular rain in Chesterfield can damage your home's roof. Some home warranty providers offer limited roof-leak coverage, which can ease the financial burden of roof repair. Finally, your home warranty will connect you with service providers you can trust.
Investing in a reputable home warranty company is worth it because companies vet their technicians. If you don't have time to do the research yourself, your home warranty company can give you peace of mind that someone reliable will handle your problem.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Consider these key factors when selecting 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 monthly. Additionally, you'll pay a service call fee each time you file a claim. Service call fees can range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans are typically more affordable than comprehensive ones. Appliance plans are more affordable than home systems coverage plans. You can often get add-on coverage for an additional monthly cost. Be 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 appliances and systems you use often and need coverage for. If you only need 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
Usually, home warranties don't cover preexisting conditions or improper installation. Most policies only cover breakdowns from normal wear and tear. Most will also exclude appliance components or cosmetic issues, theft, routine maintenance, or defects. Providers will outline limitations and exclusions in their service contracts. Read your contract thoroughly to ensure you understand the terms and conditions of your plan.
Provider Reputation
Provider reputation is another important factor to consider. You can read customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot, Best Company, and Google Reviews or check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Reviews and ratings can provide insight into how a company handles claims and customer service. Check with the Michigan Attorney General to verify that a provider holds a license with the state.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's service provider network. Any company you choose should use licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests; make sure to ask your company where and how it sources technicians. Choose a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Homeowners in 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, and customers may need to source their own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Chesterfield
Do I need a home warranty in Chesterfield?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Chesterfield'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 can I maximize the value of my home warranty?
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