Are Home Warranties Worth It for La Porte Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for La Porte residents. La Porte experiences hot summers, and you probably use your air conditioner constantly during warmer months. Your air conditioner can malfunction over time from heavy use.
La Porte has fairly mild winters, but it's still important to make sure your heating works when needed. The cost of replacing your HVAC system can range between $2,500 and $8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, come in at only $644–$737 annually, based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies across the nation.
The frequent rain in La Porte can damage your home's roof. The financial burden of this will be lessened if your home warranty has roof-leak coverage. Lastly, a home warranty connects you with service providers you can trust.
Investing in a reputable home warranty company is worth it because companies vet their technicians. When life keeps you busy, your home warranty company can give you peace of mind that someone reliable will handle your problem.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Consider these important factors when selecting the right home warranty plan for you.
Cost
We received 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and discovered 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. Basic home warranty plans generally cost less than comprehensive ones. Home systems coverage plans usually cost more than appliance plans. Add-on coverage options raise the monthly cost, so consider your particular needs before purchasing a plan.
Coverage
You can look for a home warranty plan that covers specific appliances and systems. Determine whether you want coverage for major systems (like air conditioning), specific appliances, or for both. Then ask your provider what its options are for customized coverage. 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 generally only cover breakdowns from normal wear and tear. This doesn't include improper installation or preexisting conditions. Most policies also won't cover appliance components or cosmetic issues, theft, routine maintenance, or defects. Providers outline exclusions and limitations with their service contracts. We recommend reading it to understand your plan's exact terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Provider reputation is another important factor to consider. You can find real customer reviews on sites such as Best Company, Google Reviews, and Trustpilot or check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Ratings and reviews can give you insight into how a company handles customer service and claims. Check with the Texas Attorney General to verify that a provider holds a license with the state.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's service provider network. Any company you choose should use licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests; make sure to ask your company how and where it sources technicians. Select a provider that mentions service contractors you're familiar with. Rural homeowners should consider a home warranty policy that allows the customer to choose their technician. Rural areas may not have any in-network service providers available, and customers may need to source their own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in La Porte
Is a home warranty required in La Porte?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in La Porte?
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 long does a home warranty typically last?
How can I maximize the value of my home warranty?
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