Are Home Warranties Worth It for Arlington Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Arlington residents. Arlington summers can get hot, which makes it important to have a reliable air conditioner. However, this system can malfunction over time from heavy use.
Winters in Arlington can be mild, but there are still days when you rely on your heating. HVAC system replacement can cost anywhere between $2,500 and $8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, run about $644–$737 per year, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies nationwide.
The regular rain in Arlington can damage your home's roof. Some home warranty companies offer limited roof-leak coverage, which can mitigate the cost of roof 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 don't have time to do the research yourself, your home warranty provider can ensure that someone reliable will handle your problem.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Think about the following factors to determine the right home warranty plan for your needs.
Cost
We received 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 tend to be more affordable than comprehensive ones. Home systems coverage plans will cost more than appliance plans. Most plans give you the option of getting add-on coverage options for an additional monthly fee. Consider your particular needs before committing to a plan.
Coverage
Most home warranties can be somewhat customized to your needs. Think about which appliances and systems you use often and want covered. If you only want coverage for select appliances or systems (such as your air conditioning), you can often find plans to fit. 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, defects, theft, or routine maintenance. Each provider outlines exclusions and limitations within its service contract. We recommend reading it to understand your protection plan's exact terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Also, consider a provider's reputation. You can also read real customer reviews on sites such as Best Company, Google Reviews, and Trustpilot. Ratings and reviews can show you how providers handle claims and customer service. Check with the Virginia Attorney General to verify that a provider holds a valid state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's network of service providers. Make sure to ask how and where it sources technicians—reputable providers should always use licensed and registered contractors. If you can, use a provider that mentions contractors you're familiar with. Homeowners in rural areas 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.
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Arlington Home Warranties FAQ
Do I need a home warranty in Arlington?
No, Arlington does not require home warranties. However, we still recommend purchasing a home warranty to help you maintain a budget to cover expensive system and appliance breakdowns. Home warranty companies also help you save time by sourcing reputable technicians themselves.
What are preexisting conditions?
A preexisting condition is a breakdown or issue experienced by a home system or appliance before your warranty coverage starts. Providers typically won't cover preexisting conditions. Try to purchase a home warranty policy while all your appliances and systems are still in working order to ensure complete protection.
What is Arlington's best home warranty provider?
The best home warranty in Arlington depends on what you're looking for. American Home Shield is a good choice for comprehensive coverage limits. You might also consider Liberty Home Guard if you need unique coverage.
Do home warranties cover other types of home items?
Yes, you can get a home warranty that covers household items beyond common systems and appliances. For instance, some policies might cover sump pumps, stand-alone freezers, well pumps, pools and spas, or septic systems. These are normally considered add-ons. Check with your provider to determine what add-ons are available.
Why is there a waiting period before my home warranty coverage begins?
Home warranty policies generally don't cover items that are already broken. Therefore, most home warranty companies have a 30-day waiting period before the start of coverage to ensure appliance and system breakdowns are from normal wear and tear rather than preexisting conditions.
How is a home warranty different from homeowners insurance?
A home warranty only covers household systems and appliances that need repairs or replacements due to normal wear and tear. Homeowners insurance, on the other hand, provides coverage for homes for damage from disasters, fires, accidents, and property losses.
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More Home Warranty Resources
National Home Warranty Ranking Methodology
Virginia Home Warranty Companies