Are Home Warranties Worth It for West Chester Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for West Chester residents. West Chester summers can get hot, which makes it important for your air conditioner to work properly. However, over time this system can malfunction from heavy use.
West Chester has relatively mild winters, but there are still days you'll need your heating. The cost of an HVAC system replacement can range anywhere from $2,500–$8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, come in at only $644–$737 annually, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies across the nation.
The regular rain in West Chester can damage your home's roof. The financial burden of this will be lessened if your home warranty has roof-leak coverage. Lastly, home warranties connect you with trusted service providers.
Reputable home warranty companies vet every service provider they use. If you're busy with work or other priorities, investing in a home warranty ensures you have access to trustworthy technicians.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Think about these key factors when determining the right home warranty plan for you.
Cost
We received 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and determined that home warranties cost an average of $53–$62 per month. There are also service call fees that apply each time you file a claim. These fees range from $65–$125 per claim. A basic home warranty is more affordable than a comprehensive one. Appliance plans are typically less costly than home systems coverage plans. With most plans, you can get add-on coverage options for an additional monthly fee. Consider your specific needs before choosing a plan.
Coverage
You can often find home warranty plans that cover specific systems and appliances. Determine whether you want coverage for major systems (such as air conditioning), specific appliances, or for both. Then ask your provider what its options are for customized coverage. 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 preexisting conditions and improper installation. Additionally, most policies will exclude appliance components or cosmetic issues, routine maintenance, theft, or defects. Providers will outline exclusions and limitations in their service contracts. Thoroughly read your contract to make sure you understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Provider reputation is another important factor to consider. You can browse 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 give you insight into how a company handles claims and customer service. Check with the Ohio Consumer Protection Section to verify that a provider holds a license with the state.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's network of service providers. Any provider you choose should use licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests; make sure to ask your company where and how it sources technicians. Choose a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Rural homeowners should consider choosing a home warranty provider that lets customers select their technicians. It's important to have the option to source your own providers if no in-network ones are available in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in West Chester
Do I need a home warranty in West Chester?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in West Chester?
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 can I maximize the value of my home warranty?
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