Are Home Warranties Worth It for Jacksonville Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for Jacksonville residents. Summers in Jacksonville are very hot, which makes it extremely important that your air conditioner works well. However, over time this system can malfunction from heavy use.
Jacksonville has fairly mild winters, but it's still important to make sure your heating works when needed. The cost of replacing your HVAC system can range anywhere from $2,500–$8,000. Home warranties are comparatively cheaper at only $644–$737 per year, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies nationwide.
Jacksonville's heavy rain can also affect your roof. Some home warranty providers offer limited roof-leak coverage to financially assist with repair. Finally, your home warranty will connect you with service providers you can trust.
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 company can give you peace of mind that someone reliable will handle your problem.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
These key factors can help you determine the best home warranty plan for your needs.
Cost
We pulled 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home. From this we determined that home warranties cost an average of $53–$62 per month. Additionally, you'll pay a service call fee of between $65–$125 each time you file a claim. Comprehensive home warranties cost more than basic ones, and home systems coverage plans cost more than appliance plans. You can select add-on coverage options, but these will increase your monthly cost. Consider your specific needs before selecting a plan.
Coverage
You can often find home warranty plans that cover 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
Most home warranties cover only normal wear and tear, which excludes improper installation and preexisting conditions. Additionally, most policies will exclude appliance components or cosmetic issues, routine maintenance, defects, or theft. Each provider outlines exclusions and limitations within its service contract. Make sure you read it and understand your protection plan's exact terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Provider reputation is another important factor to consider. You can read customer reviews on sites such as Best Company, Trustpilot, and Google Reviews or check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Ratings and reviews can give you insight into how a company handles claims and customer service. Check with the North Carolina Attorney General to verify the status of a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's network of service providers. Reliable home warranty providers source licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests. We suggest asking a provider how and where it sources technicians. We recommend picking a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Residents of rural areas 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 might need to source their own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Jacksonville
Is a home warranty required in Jacksonville?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in Jacksonville?
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 do I file a claim with my home warranty provider?
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