Are Home Warranties Worth It for Clinton Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Clinton residents. Clinton can have fairly hot days during the summer, and you probably use your air conditioner frequently during the warmer months. Your air conditioner may malfunction over time due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Clinton also has cold winters, meaning your heating system is working constantly during the colder months. The cost of an HVAC system replacement can range between $2,500 and $8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, come in at only $644–$737 annually, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies nationwide.
The regular rain in Clinton can damage your roof. Some home warranty companies offer limited roof-leak coverage, which can mitigate the cost of roof repair. Lastly, home warranties connect you with reliable service providers.
Reputable home warranty companies vet every service provider they use. If you're busy with work or other priorities, investing in a home warranty ensures you have access to trustworthy technicians.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
These key 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 approximately $53–$62 per month. Additionally, you'll pay a service call fee whenever you file a claim. Service call fees can range from $65–$125 per claim. Comprehensive home warranties cost more than basic ones, and home systems coverage plans cost more than appliance plans. You can get add-on coverage options, but this will increase your monthly cost—consider your specific needs before committing to a plan.
Coverage
Figure out which appliances and systems you use most frequently. Most home warranty providers offer custom coverage tailored to your needs. If you only need coverage for certain systems, such as your heating, most companies 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 damage from normal wear and tear. They don't cover preexisting conditions or improper installation. Additionally, home warranties don't cover cosmetic issues or appliance components, theft, defects, or routine maintenance. Providers outline exclusions and limitations with their service contracts. Make sure you read it and understand your plan's exact terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Carefully consider a provider's reputation before purchasing a plan. Check its Better Business Bureau rating. Also read customer reviews on sites like Google Reviews, Trustpilot, and Best Company. Reading these reviews gives you an idea of how providers handle customer service and claims. Check with the Michigan Attorney General to verify a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's service provider network. Companies should always send licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. Make sure you ask how and where a company sources its technicians. If you can, use a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Homeowners in 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 Clinton
Is a home warranty required in Clinton?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in Clinton?
Do home warranties cover other types of home items?
Why is there a waiting period before my home warranty coverage begins?
How is a home warranty different from homeowners insurance?
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.