Are Home Warranties Worth It for St. Louis Park Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for St. Louis Park residents. St. Louis Park generally has mild temperatures, but you may still use your air conditioner frequently during warmer months. Your air conditioning system may malfunction over time due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Winters in St. Louis Park can be freezing, which means you rely heavily on your heating system. Replacing your HVAC system can cost anywhere from $2,500–$8,000, compared to a home warranty costing roughly $644–$737 annually based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies nationwide. The regular rain in St. Louis Park can damage your 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're focused on work or other priorities, 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 the following factors when selecting the right home warranty plan for your needs.
Cost
We pulled 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and found that home warranties cost an average of $53–$62 per month. There are also service call fees each time you file a claim. Service call fees range from $65–$125 per claim. A basic home warranty will be more affordable than a comprehensive one. Appliance plans are typically less expensive 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 committing to a plan.
Coverage
Most home warranty companies can tailor a plan to your needs. Think about which systems and appliances you use often and would like coverage for. If you only want 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
Most home warranties only cover damage from normal wear and tear. They don't cover improper installation or preexisting conditions. Additionally, home warranties don't cover appliance components or cosmetic issues, theft, defects, or routine maintenance. A provider will outline its limitations and exclusions in its service contract. Read your contract thoroughly to fully understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Provider reputation is another important factor to consider. You can find customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot, Best Company, and Google Reviews or check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Ratings and reviews can provide insight into how a company handles claims and customer service. Check with the Minnesota Attorney General to verify that a provider holds a valid state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's service provider network. Ask where and how it sources technicians—reputable companies should always use licensed and registered contractors. We recommend picking a provider that mentions contractors you're familiar with. Residents of 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, so customers may need to source their own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in St. Louis Park
Do I need a home warranty in St. Louis Park?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is St. Louis Park'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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