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 the warmer months. Your air conditioning system can malfunction over time from heavy use.
Winters in Chesterfield can be fairly mild, but there are still times when you want to have a reliable heating system. HVAC system replacement 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. The regular rain in Chesterfield can damage your roof.
The cost of repairs will be lower if your home warranty has roof-leak coverage. Lastly, home warranties connect you with reliable technicians. When work and other priorities keep you busy, you want to know a trustworthy service provider 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 key factors when selecting your home warranty plan.
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 range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans are more affordable than comprehensive ones. Appliance plans are typically less costly than home systems coverage plans. Most plans offer add-on coverage options for an additional monthly cost. Consider your specific needs before committing to a plan.
Coverage
Figure out which systems and appliances you use most often. You'll want a home warranty plan that covers these items. Most home warranties can be customized to your needs, and many companies offer systems-only plans for homeowners that only need select coverage (such as for air conditioning). You can also get a plan that only covers select appliances. The following 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 only cover damage from normal wear and tear. They don't cover improper installation or preexisting conditions. Generally, cosmetic issues or appliance components, routine maintenance, defects, or theft aren't covered either. Providers outline limitations and exclusions in their service contracts. Make sure you read yours carefully to fully understand the terms and conditions of your plan.
Provider Reputation
Also, consider provider reputation when choosing a plan. You can find customer reviews on sites such as 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 Missouri Attorney General's Consumer Protection Section to verify the status of a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's network of service providers. Providers should always use licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests. Make sure you ask where and how a company sources its technicians. If you can, use a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Homeowners in rural areas may prefer a home warranty that lets them choose their technician. You may need to source your own provider if there are no in-network ones in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Chesterfield
Do I need a home warranty in Chesterfield?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in Chesterfield?
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?
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