Are Home Warranties Worth It for Roanoke Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for Roanoke residents. Roanoke can have fairly hot days during the summer, and you probably use your air conditioner frequently during the warmer months. Your air conditioning system can malfunction over time from heavy use.
Winters in Roanoke can be mild, but there are still days when you rely on your heating. HVAC system replacement can cost from $2,500 to $8,000. Home warranties are comparatively cheaper, costing roughly $644–$737 per year, based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies across the nation.
The regular rain in Roanoke can damage your home's roof. Some home warranty policies include limited roof-leak coverage, which can mitigate the cost of roof repair. Lastly, your home warranty will connect you with trustworthy service providers.
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 ensure that someone reliable will handle your issue.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Consider these key factors when choosing your home warranty plan.
Cost
After getting 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home, we determined that home warranties cost approximately $53–$62 per month. You'll also pay a service call fee whenever you file a claim. Service call fees typically range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans are more affordable than comprehensive ones. Appliance plans are typically less costly than home systems coverage plans. Most plans give you the option of getting add-on coverage options for an additional monthly fee. Consider your specific needs before committing to a plan.
Coverage
Most home warranty companies can tailor a plan to your needs. Think about which systems and appliances you use often and would like coverage for. If you only want coverage for select appliances or systems (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
Usually, home warranties only cover breakdowns from normal wear and tear. They don't cover improper installation or preexisting conditions. Generally, cosmetic issues or appliance components, routine maintenance, theft, or defects aren't covered either. You can find your provider's exclusions and limitations within your service contract. Read carefully to ensure you understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Also, consider provider reputation. You can also read customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot, Best Company, and Google Reviews. Reviews and ratings can show you how providers handle customer service and claims. Check with the Virginia Attorney General to verify that a provider holds a license with the state.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's service provider network. The company you choose should use licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests; make sure to ask your company where and how it sources technicians. We recommend picking a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. 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, so customers may need to source their own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Roanoke
Is a home warranty required in Roanoke?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in Roanoke?
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?
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