Are Home Warranties Worth It for Durham Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Durham residents. Durham experiences hot summers, and you probably use your air conditioner constantly during the warmer months. Your air conditioner may malfunction over time from heavy use.
Winters in Durham are fairly mild, but you still want a reliable heating system. HVAC system replacement 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. Durham's regular rain showers can also affect your home's roof.
Some home warranty providers offer limited roof-leak coverage to ease the financial burden of repair. Lastly, your home warranty will connect you with trustworthy service providers. A reputable home warranty is a good investment because companies vet their technicians.
If you're focused on work or other priorities, 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
Think about these key factors when selecting the right home warranty plan for you.
Cost
We pulled 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home. From this we determined that the average home warranty cost is $53–$62 per month. Additionally, you'll pay a service call fee of approximately $65–$125 each time you file a claim. Basic home warranty plans are typically more affordable than comprehensive ones. Appliance plans are more affordable than home systems coverage plans. Most plans offer add-on coverage, but this will increase your monthly cost. Make sure you know what you need before selecting a plan.
Coverage
Figure out which appliances and systems you use the most. Most home warranties offer customizable coverage tailored to your needs. If you only want coverage for certain systems, such as your air conditioner, most providers offer systems-only plans. The same is true if you only want coverage for certain appliances. 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. Providers outline exclusions and limitations within their service contracts. We recommend reading carefully to fully understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Carefully consider a provider's reputation before committing to a plan. Check its Better Business Bureau rating. Also read customer reviews on sites like Trustpilot, Best Company, and Google Reviews. Reading these reviews gives you an idea of how companies handle claims and customer service. Check with the North Carolina Attorney General to verify that a provider holds a license with the state.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's service provider network. The provider you choose should use licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests; make sure to ask your company how and where it sources technicians. If you can, use a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Homeowners in rural areas may opt for a home warranty that allows them to choose their technician. You may need to source your own provider if no in-network ones are available in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Durham
Is a home warranty required in Durham?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Durham's best home warranty provider?
Do home warranties cover 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?
How can I maximize the value of my home warranty?
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