Are Home Warranties Worth It for O'Fallon Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for O'Fallon residents. Summers in O'Fallon can have some very hot days, which means it's important that your air conditioner is working well. However, over time this system can malfunction from heavy use.
O'Fallon winters can be mild, but there are still days when you rely on your heating. HVAC system replacement can cost from $2,500 to $8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, run about $644–$737 annually, based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies nationwide.
The regular rain in O'Fallon 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 trusted 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
Think about these key factors to determine the best home warranty for your needs.
Cost
We requested 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and determined that home warranties cost roughly $53–$62 per month. You'll also pay service call fees whenever you file a claim. These fees 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. Many plans have add-on coverage options, but this will increase your monthly cost, so make sure you know what you need before selecting a plan.
Coverage
Determine which appliances and systems you use most frequently. Most home warranty plans offer customizable coverage tailored to your needs. If you only need coverage for select systems, like your air conditioner, most providers offer systems-only plans. The same is true if you only need coverage for select 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
Home warranties generally only cover damage from normal wear and tear. This doesn't include preexisting conditions or improper installation. Most policies will also not cover cosmetic issues or appliance components, routine maintenance, defects, or theft. A provider will outline its limitations and exclusions in your service contract. Read your contract thoroughly to fully understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Also, consider a provider's reputation when making a decision. You can find customer reviews on sites such as Google Reviews, Trustpilot, and Best Company or look at a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Reviews and ratings are a great way to assess how providers handle claims and customer service. Check with the Missouri Attorney General's Consumer Protection Section to verify that a provider holds a valid state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account 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. Select a provider that mentions service contractors you're familiar with. Rural homeowners 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 O'Fallon
Is a home warranty required in O'Fallon?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is O'Fallon's best home warranty provider?
Can I get a home warranty that covers other types of home items?
Why do home warranties have a waiting period before coverage begins?
How can I maximize the value of my home warranty?
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