Are Home Warranties Worth It for Asheville Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for Asheville residents. Asheville summers can get hot, which makes it important for your air conditioner to work properly. However, this system can malfunction over time from heavy use.
Winters in Asheville can be mild, but there are still days when you rely on your heating. HVAC system replacement can cost anywhere between $2,500 and $8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, run about $644–$737 annually, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies nationwide.
Asheville's regular rain showers can also affect your home's roof. Some home warranty companies offer limited roof-leak coverage to financially assist with repair. 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 determining the right home warranty plan for you.
Cost
We pulled 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and found that home warranties cost roughly $53–$62 per month. You'll also pay service call fees whenever you file a claim. Service call fees range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans are typically more affordable than comprehensive ones. A home systems coverage plan will usually cost more than an appliance plan. Most plans offer add-on coverage, but this will increase your monthly cost. Make sure you know your specific needs before purchasing 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 (like air conditioning), specific appliances, or for both. Then ask your provider about its options for customized coverage. 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 typically only cover damage from normal wear and tear. This doesn't include preexisting conditions or improper installation. Most policies also won't cover cosmetic issues or appliance components, defects, theft, or routine maintenance. 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
Also, consider a provider's reputation when making a decision. You can read 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 learn how providers handle customer service and claims. Check with the North Carolina Attorney General to verify a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's service provider network. Your provider should always use licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests. Make sure you ask how and where a company sources its technicians. If you can, use a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Rural homeowners may consider choosing a home warranty that lets them pick their technicians. It's important to have the option to source your own providers if there are no in-network ones available in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Asheville
Is a home warranty required in Asheville?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in Asheville?
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 is a home warranty different from homeowners insurance?
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