Are Home Warranties Worth It for Smithtown Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for Smithtown residents. Summers in Smithtown 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 due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Smithtown has relatively mild winters, but there are still days you'll need your heating. The cost of replacing your HVAC system can range anywhere from $2,500–$8,000. A home warranty plan is comparatively cheaper, only $644–$737 a year, based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies nationwide.
Smithtown's heavy rain can also affect your roof. Some home warranty companies offer limited roof-leak coverage to ease the financial burden of repair. Lastly, your home warranty will connect you with trustworthy service providers.
Investing in a reputable home warranty company is worth it because companies vet their technicians. If you don't have time to do the research yourself, your home warranty provider can give you peace of mind that someone reliable will handle your issue.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
These important factors can help you determine the right home warranty plan for your needs.
Cost
After getting 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home, we determined that home warranties cost approximately $53–$62 monthly. You'll also pay a service call fee each time you file a claim. Service call fees range from $65–$125 per claim. Comprehensive home warranties cost more than basic ones, and home systems coverage plans cost more than appliance plans. Most providers offer add-on coverage options for an additional cost. Consider your specific needs before choosing a plan.
Coverage
Many home warranty companies offer plans for select appliances or systems. Figure out which systems and appliances you use most often before choosing a plan. If you only need coverage for certain major systems (such as air conditioning) or certain appliances, you can find a plan that meets your needs. 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
Home warranties typically only cover breakdowns from normal wear and tear. This doesn't include improper installation or preexisting conditions. Most policies also won't cover appliance components or cosmetic issues, routine maintenance, theft, or defects. Providers outline limitations and exclusions within their service contracts. We recommend reading carefully to fully understand the terms and conditions of your plan.
Provider Reputation
You should also consider a provider's reputation. You can also read customer reviews on sites like Trustpilot, Best Company, and Google Reviews. Reviews and ratings can show you how a company handles customer service and claims. Check with the New York Division of Consumer Protection to verify the status of a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's service provider network. Your provider should always send licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. Make sure you ask where and how a company sources its technicians. Select a provider that mentions service contractors you're familiar with. Rural homeowners may prefer home warranty policies that allow customers to choose their technicians. There may not be any in-network service providers in these areas, so you'll want the option to choose your own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Smithtown
Do I need a home warranty in Smithtown?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in Smithtown?
Do home warranties cover other types of home items?
Why do home warranties have a waiting period before 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.