Are Home Warranties Worth It for St. Clair Shores Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for St. Clair Shores residents. Summers in St. Clair Shores can have some very hot days, which means it's important that your air conditioner works well. However, this system can malfunction over time due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Winters in St. Clair Shores are very cold, meaning you rely on your heating system often. Replacing your HVAC system can cost between $2,500 and $8,000, compared to a home warranty costing roughly $644–$737 annually based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies nationwide. St. Clair Shores' regular rain showers can also affect your roof.
Some home warranty companies offer limited roof-leak coverage to financially assist with repair. Finally, home warranties connect you with trustworthy service providers. When life is keeping you busy, you want to know that a reliable technician is handling your repairs.
Reputable home warranty companies vet every service provider they work with.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Consider these important factors when picking the best home warranty plan for you.
Cost
We received 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and discovered that home warranties cost an average of $53–$62 per month. You also have to pay service call fees whenever you file a claim. These fees range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans are more affordable than comprehensive ones. Appliance plans are typically less expensive than home systems coverage plans. Most plans give you the option of getting add-on coverage options for an additional monthly cost. Consider your particular needs before committing to a plan.
Coverage
Many home warranty companies offer systems-only plans or plans for select appliances. Determine which systems and appliances you use most often before selecting a plan. If you only need coverage for certain major systems (such as heating) or specific appliances, you can find a plan that meets your needs. 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
Generally, home warranties don't cover preexisting conditions or improper installation. Most policies only cover normal wear and tear. Most also exclude appliance components or cosmetic issues, defects, routine maintenance, or theft. Providers outline exclusions and limitations with their service contracts. We recommend reading it to understand your protection plan's exact terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Provider reputation is another key factor to consider. You can read customer reviews on sites like Best Company, Google Reviews, and Trustpilot or check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Ratings and reviews can give you insight into how a company handles customer service and claims. Check with the Michigan Attorney General to verify that a provider holds a license with the state.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's service provider network. Make sure you ask your provider how and where it sources technicians. All reputable companies should use licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. We recommend picking a provider that mentions service contractors you're familiar with. Residents of rural areas should consider a home warranty policy that allows the customer to choose their technician. Rural areas may not have any in-network service providers available, and customers might need to source their own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in St. Clair Shores
Is a home warranty required in St. Clair Shores?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is St. Clair Shores' 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?
How can I maximize the value of my home warranty?
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