Are Home Warranties Worth It for Lancaster Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Lancaster residents. Lancaster can have fairly hot days during the summer, and you probably use your air conditioner frequently during the warmer months. Your air conditioner can malfunction over time due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Lancaster winters can be mild, but there are still days when you rely on your heating. HVAC system replacement can cost from $2,500 to $8,000. Home warranties are comparatively cheaper, costing roughly $644–$737 per year, based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies nationwide.
Lancaster's regular rain showers can also affect your roof. Some home warranty providers offer limited roof-leak coverage to financially assist with repair. Finally, 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 all their service providers.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Consider these important factors when picking your home warranty plan.
Cost
After getting 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home, we determined that home warranties cost roughly $53–$62 per month. Additionally, you'll pay a service call fee whenever you file a claim. These 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. Many plans have add-on coverage options, but this will increase your monthly cost, so make sure you know your specific needs before purchasing a plan.
Coverage
Figure out which systems and appliances you use most frequently. Most home warranty plans offer custom coverage tailored to your needs. If you only need coverage for select systems, like your air conditioner, most providers offer systems-only plans. The same is true if you only want coverage for 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
Most home warranties cover only normal wear and tear, which excludes improper installation and preexisting conditions. Most policies also exclude cosmetic issues or appliance components, defects, routine maintenance, or theft. Providers outline limitations and exclusions in their service contracts. We recommend reading carefully to fully understand the terms and conditions of your plan.
Provider Reputation
Also, consider a provider's reputation when choosing a plan. You can read customer reviews on sites such as Google Reviews, Trustpilot, and Best Company or look at a company's rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Reviews and ratings are a great way to learn how providers handle customer service and claims. Check with the Ohio Consumer Protection Section to verify the status of a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's service provider network. Your provider should always send licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests. Make sure you ask where and how a company sources its technicians. Select a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Homeowners in rural areas might consider choosing a home warranty provider that lets customers select their technicians. You'll want 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 Lancaster
Do I need a home warranty in Lancaster?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in Lancaster?
Do home warranties cover 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?
How long does a home warranty typically last?
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