Are Home Warranties Worth It for Chattanooga Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Chattanooga residents. Chattanooga experiences hot summers, and you probably use your air conditioner constantly during the warmer months. Your air conditioning system may malfunction over time from heavy use.
Winters in Chattanooga are fairly mild, but you still want a reliable heating system. HVAC system replacement can cost anywhere from $2,500–$8,000, compared to a home warranty costing roughly $644–$737 annually based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies nationwide. Chattanooga's heavy rain can cause damage to your roof.
Some home warranty companies offer limited roof-leak coverage, which can mitigate the cost of roof 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 a trustworthy technician will fix your issue.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
These important factors can help you choose the right home warranty plan for your needs.
Cost
We requested 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 that apply whenever you file a claim. These fees range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans are typically more affordable than comprehensive ones. Appliance plans are more affordable than home systems coverage plans. Most plans offer add-on coverage, but this will increase your monthly cost. Make sure you know what you need before selecting a plan.
Coverage
Determine the appliances and systems you use most frequently. Most home warranty plans offer custom coverage tailored to your needs. If you only want coverage for certain systems, such as your air conditioner, most companies offer systems-only plans. The same is true if you only need coverage for certain appliances. 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
Typically, home warranties don't cover preexisting conditions or improper installation. Most policies will only cover damage from normal wear and tear. Most will also exclude appliance components or cosmetic issues, routine maintenance, defects, or theft. You can find your provider's limitations and exclusions in your service contract. Read carefully to ensure you understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Provider reputation is another key factor to consider. You can read real customer reviews on sites such as Best Company, Trustpilot, 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 Tennessee Division of Consumer Affairs to verify that a provider holds a valid state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account 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. We recommend picking a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Those residing in rural areas should consider a home warranty that allows you to choose your technician. You may not have any in-network service providers in your area, so you'll need the option to source your own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Chattanooga
Do I need a home warranty in Chattanooga?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Chattanooga'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?
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