Are Home Warranties Worth It for Grand Forks Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Grand Forks residents. Summers in Grand Forks are fairly mild, but it's still important to have a reliable air conditioner. However, over time this system can malfunction due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Winters in Grand Forks are freezing, which makes having reliable heating extremely important. 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 across the nation.
Even in Grand Forks, over time rain can damage your roof. Some home warranty providers offer limited roof-leak coverage, which can ease the financial burden of roof repair. Finally, home warranties connect you with trusted service providers.
Reputable home warranty companies vet every service provider they use. If you don't have time to do the research yourself, investing in a home warranty ensures you have access to trustworthy technicians.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Consider these key factors when picking the best home warranty plan for you.
Cost
We pulled 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and determined that the average home warranty cost is $53–$62 per month. You'll also pay a service call fee of between $65–$125 whenever you file a claim. Basic home warranty plans tend to be more affordable than comprehensive ones. A home systems coverage plan will usually cost more than an appliance plan. 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
Most home warranty companies can tailor a plan to your needs. Make a list of the systems and appliances that you use often and want coverage for. If you only need coverage for select appliances or systems (such as your heating), you can often find plans to fit. 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 breakdowns from normal wear and tear. This doesn't include improper installation or preexisting conditions. Most policies also won't cover cosmetic issues or appliance components, routine maintenance, defects, or theft. Providers will outline limitations and exclusions in their service contracts. Read your contract thoroughly to ensure you understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Provider reputation is another key factor to consider. You can read customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot, Best Company, and Google Reviews or check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Reviews and ratings can give you insight into how a company handles customer service and claims. Check with the North Dakota Consumer Protection Division to verify a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's network of service providers. The company you choose should use licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests; make sure to ask your company where and how it sources technicians. We recommend picking a provider that mentions service contractors you're familiar with. Residents of rural areas might prefer a home warranty that lets them choose their technician. You may need to source your own provider if there are no in-network ones in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Grand Forks
Is a home warranty required in Grand Forks?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Grand Forks' 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 long does a home warranty typically last?
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