Are Home Warranties Worth It for Hempstead Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for Hempstead residents. Hempstead can have fairly hot days during the summer, and you probably use your air conditioner frequently during warmer months. Your air conditioner can malfunction over time due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Hempstead has relatively mild winters, but there are still days you'll need your heating. The cost of replacing your HVAC system can range between $2,500 and $8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, come in at only $644–$737 annually, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies nationwide.
The regular rain in Hempstead can damage your home's roof. The cost of repairs will be lower if your home warranty has roof-leak coverage. Finally, 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 all their service providers.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Think about these important factors when choosing the right home warranty plan for you.
Cost
We received 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. These fees range from $65–$125 per claim. A basic home warranty is more affordable than a comprehensive one. Home systems coverage plans tend to cost more than appliance plans. Most plans offer add-on coverage options for an additional monthly cost. Consider your specific needs before purchasing a plan.
Coverage
Most home warranty companies can tailor a plan to your needs. Make a list of the appliances and systems that you use often and need covered. If you only need coverage for select systems or appliances (such as your air conditioning), 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 normal wear and tear. They don't cover improper installation or preexisting conditions. Additionally, home warranties don't cover appliance components or cosmetic issues, routine maintenance, theft, or defects. You can read about your provider's limitations and exclusions within your service contract. Be sure to read the contract carefully to understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Carefully consider a provider's reputation before deciding on a plan. Check its Better Business Bureau rating. You can also read customer reviews on sites like Best Company, Google Reviews, and Trustpilot. Reading these reviews gives you an idea of how companies handle claims and customer service. Check with the New York Division of Consumer Protection to verify that a provider holds a valid state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's service provider network. Any provider you choose should use licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests; make sure to ask your company how and where it sources technicians. Choose 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. There may be no in-network service providers available in these areas, so customers may need to source their own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Hempstead
Do I need a home warranty in Hempstead?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in Hempstead?
Can I get a home warranty that covers other types of home items?
Why is there a waiting period before my home warranty coverage begins?
How long does a home warranty typically last?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.