Are Home Warranties Worth It for Pasadena Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for Pasadena residents. Pasadena experiences hot summers, and you probably use your air conditioner constantly during the warmer months. Your air conditioning system can malfunction over time from heavy use.
Pasadena has fairly mild winters, but it's still important to make sure your heating works when needed. The cost of an HVAC system replacement can range anywhere from $2,500–$8,000. A home warranty plan is comparatively cheaper, only $644–$737 per year, based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies nationwide.
Pasadena's heavy rain can also affect your home's roof. Some home warranty providers offer limited roof-leak coverage to financially assist with repair. Finally, your home warranty will connect you with service providers you can trust.
Investing in a reputable home warranty company is worth it because companies vet their technicians. If you're focused on work or other priorities, your home warranty company can ensure that someone reliable will handle your issue.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Consider these important factors when selecting the right home warranty plan for you.
Cost
We pulled 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and found that home warranties cost roughly $53–$62 per month. You'll also pay service call fees whenever you file a claim. Service call fees range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans typically 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 specific needs before purchasing a plan.
Coverage
Most home warranty companies can tailor a plan to your needs. Make a list of the appliances and systems that you use often and need coverage for. If you only want coverage for select systems or appliances (such as your air conditioning), you can often find plans to fit. 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
Generally, home warranties don't cover preexisting conditions or improper installation. Most policies will only cover breakdowns from normal wear and tear. Most will also exclude cosmetic issues or appliance components, routine maintenance, defects, or theft. Providers outline limitations and exclusions within their service contracts. We recommend reading carefully to fully understand the terms and conditions of your plan.
Provider Reputation
Provider reputation is another important factor to consider. You can read real customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot, Best Company, and Google Reviews or check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Ratings and reviews can provide insight into how a company handles claims and customer service. Check with the Texas Attorney General to verify that a provider holds a valid state license.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's network of service providers. Providers should always send licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. Make sure you ask how and where a company sources its technicians. Select a provider that mentions service contractors you're familiar with. Homeowners in rural areas should consider a home warranty that allows you to choose your technician. In-network service providers may not be available in your area, so you'll need the option to source your own.
