Are Home Warranties Worth It for St. Joseph Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for St. Joseph residents. St. Joseph summers can have some very hot days, which means it's important that your air conditioner is working well. However, this system can malfunction over time from heavy use.
Winters in St. Joseph can be fairly mild, but there are still times when you want to have a reliable 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. Joseph can damage your roof.
Some home warranty companies offer limited roof-leak coverage, which can mitigate the cost of roof repair. Finally, home warranties connect you with reliable service providers. Reputable home warranty companies vet every service provider they use.
If life keeps you busy, investing in a home warranty ensures a trustworthy technician will fix your issue.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Consider these important factors when selecting the right home warranty plan for you.
Cost
We pulled 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and determined that the average home warranty costs between $53–$62 per month. There are also service call fees that apply each time you file a claim. These fees range from $65–$125 per claim. A basic home warranty is generally more affordable than a comprehensive one. Appliance plans are typically less costly than home systems coverage plans. With most plans, you can get add-on coverage options for an additional monthly fee. Consider your particular needs before choosing a plan.
Coverage
You can look for a home warranty plan that covers specific systems and appliances. Decide whether you need coverage for major systems (such as air conditioning), specific appliances, or for both. Then ask your provider what its options are for customized coverage. 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
Most home warranties only cover damage from normal wear and tear. They don't cover preexisting conditions or improper installation. In addition, home warranties don't cover cosmetic issues or appliance components, routine maintenance, defects, or theft. You can read about your provider's limitations and exclusions in your service contract. Be sure to read the contract carefully to understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Consider a company's reputation when making a decision. You can also read real customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot, Best Company, and Google Reviews. These reviews can give you a sense of how providers handle customer service and claims. Check with the Missouri Attorney General's Consumer Protection Section to verify that a provider holds a license with the state.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's service provider network. Ask your provider where and how it sources technicians. All reputable companies should use licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. Choose a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Homeowners in rural areas may consider home warranties that allow the customer to choose their technician. You'll want to be able to source your own provider if there are no in-network ones in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in St. Joseph
Do I need a home warranty in St. Joseph?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is St. Joseph'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 do I file a claim with my home warranty provider?
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