Are Home Warranties Worth It for Pittsburgh Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for Pittsburgh residents. Summers in Pittsburgh can get hot, which makes it important to have a reliable air conditioner. However, over time this system can malfunction due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Winters in Pittsburgh are very cold, meaning you rely on your heating system often. HVAC system replacement can cost anywhere from $2,500–$8,000, compared to a home warranty coming in at around $644–$737 annually based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies nationwide. The regular rain in Pittsburgh can damage your roof.
The financial burden of this will be lessened if your home warranty has roof-leak coverage. Finally, home warranties connect you with trustworthy service providers. When life is keeping you busy, you want to know that a reliable technician is handling your repairs.
Reputable home warranty companies vet every service provider they work with.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Think about these key factors to determine the best home warranty for your needs.
Cost
We pulled 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and found that home warranties cost an average of $53–$62 per month. There are also service call fees each time you file a claim. These fees range from $65–$125 per 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 your specific needs before choosing a plan.
Coverage
Many home warranty companies offer plans for select appliances or systems. Determine which appliances and systems you use the most before selecting a plan. If you only need to cover certain major systems (such as heating) or certain appliances, you can find a plan that meets your needs. 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
Usually, home warranties only cover normal wear and tear. They don't cover improper installation or preexisting conditions. Generally, cosmetic issues or appliance components, routine maintenance, defects, or theft are also not covered. Each provider will outline its limitations and exclusions in its service contract. Thoroughly read your contract to fully understand the terms and conditions of your plan.
Provider Reputation
Consider a provider's reputation before making a commitment. You can also read real customer reviews on sites such as Best Company, Google Reviews, and Trustpilot. Reading reviews can give you a sense of how providers handle claims and customer service. Check with the Pennsylvania Attorney General to verify the status of a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's service provider network. The company you choose should use licensed and registered contractors to fulfill 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 a home warranty policy that allows the customer to choose their technician. There may be no in-network service providers available in these areas, and customers might need to source their own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Pittsburgh
Is a home warranty required in Pittsburgh?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Pittsburgh's best home warranty provider?
Can I get a home warranty that covers 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 do I file a claim with my home warranty provider?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.