Are Home Warranties Worth It for Blacksburg Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Blacksburg residents. Blacksburg can have fairly hot days during the summer, and you probably use your air conditioner frequently during the warmer months. Your air conditioning system may malfunction over time from heavy use.
Blacksburg has relatively mild winters, but there are still days you'll need your heating. 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 a year, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies across the nation.
The regular rain in Blacksburg 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 trusted service providers.
Reputable home warranty companies vet each service provider they work with. If you don't have time to do the research yourself, investing in a home warranty ensures you have access to trustworthy technicians.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Consider these important factors when picking the right home warranty plan for you.
Cost
We received 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and determined that home warranties cost roughly $53–$62 per month. You'll also pay service call fees each time you file a claim. These fees range from $65–$125 per claim. Comprehensive home warranties cost more than basic ones, and home systems coverage plans cost more than appliance plans. You can select add-on coverage options, but these will increase your monthly cost. Consider your specific needs before choosing a plan.
Coverage
Figure out which systems and appliances you use most often. You want your home warranty plan to cover these items. Most home warranties can be tailored to your needs, and many companies offer systems-only plans for homeowners that only want select coverage (such as for air conditioning). You can also find plans that cover only select 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
Most home warranties cover only normal wear and tear, which excludes improper installation and preexisting conditions. Most policies also exclude cosmetic issues or appliance components, theft, defects, or routine maintenance. Each provider outlines exclusions and limitations within its service contract. We recommend reading it to understand your plan's exact terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Also, consider provider reputation when choosing a plan. You can find customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and Best Company or look at a company's rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Reviews and ratings are a great way to see how providers handle customer service and claims. Check with the Virginia Attorney General to verify the status of a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's network of service providers. The provider 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 service contractors you're familiar with. Rural homeowners should consider going with a home warranty provider that customers choose their technician. Rural areas may not have any in-network service providers available, and customers might need to source their own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Blacksburg
Is a home warranty required in Blacksburg?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in Blacksburg?
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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