Are Home Warranties Worth It for Wilmington Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for Wilmington residents. Wilmington summers are very hot, which makes it extremely important that your air conditioner works well. However, this system can malfunction over time from heavy use.
Wilmington has fairly mild winters, but it's still important to make sure your heating works when needed. The cost of an HVAC system replacement can range between $2,500 and $8,000. A home warranty plan is comparatively cheaper, only $644–$737 annually, based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies nationwide.
Wilmington's heavy rain can also affect your home's roof. Some home warranty providers offer limited roof-leak coverage to financially assist with repair. Finally, home warranties connect you with trustworthy service providers.
Reputable home warranty companies vet each service provider they work with. If life keeps you busy, investing in a home warranty ensures you have access to trustworthy technicians.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Consider the following factors to 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 an average of $53–$62 a month. You'll also pay a service call fee whenever you file a claim. Service call fees typically range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans tend to be more affordable than comprehensive ones. Appliance plans are more affordable than home systems coverage plans. Many plans have add-on coverage options, but this will increase your monthly cost, so make sure you know what you need before selecting a plan.
Coverage
Figure out which systems and appliances you use most often. You want your home warranty plan to cover these items. Most plans can be tailored to your needs, and many providers offer systems-only plans for homeowners that only need select coverage (such as for air conditioning). You can also find plans that cover only select 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
Home warranties generally only cover breakdowns from normal wear and tear. This doesn't include improper installation or preexisting conditions. Most policies will also not cover appliance components or cosmetic issues, routine maintenance, defects, or theft. You can read about your provider's exclusions and limitations within your service contract. Read carefully to ensure you understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Provider reputation is another important factor to consider. You can read real customer reviews on sites such as Google Reviews, Best Company, and Trustpilot or check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Ratings and reviews can provide insight into how a company handles customer service and claims. Check with the North Carolina Attorney General to verify the status of a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's service provider network. Any company 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. Rural homeowners may prefer home warranty policies that allow customers to choose their technicians. In-network service providers may be unavailable in these areas, and you'll want the option to choose your own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Wilmington
Do I need a home warranty in Wilmington?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Wilmington's best home warranty provider?
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 is a home warranty different from homeowners insurance?
How do I file a claim with my home warranty provider?
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