Are Home Warranties Worth It for Shoreline Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Shoreline residents. Shoreline generally has mild temperatures, but you may still use your air conditioner frequently during the warmer months. Your air conditioning system may malfunction over time due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Shoreline winters are very cold, meaning you rely on your heating system often. Replacing your HVAC system can cost between $2,500 and $8,000, compared to a home warranty costing roughly $644–$737 annually based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies across the nation. The frequent rain in Shoreline can damage your home's roof.
The financial burden of this will be lessened if you have a home warranty with roof-leak coverage. Finally, home warranties connect you with trusted service providers. Reputable home warranty companies vet all their service providers.
If life keeps you busy, investing in a home warranty ensures you have access to trustworthy technicians.
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
After getting 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home, we determined that home warranties cost approximately $53–$62 monthly. You'll also pay a service call fee each time you file a claim. Service call fees can 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 specific needs before purchasing a plan.
Coverage
Figure out which systems and appliances you use the most. You want your home warranty plan to cover these items. Most plans can be tailored to your needs, and many providers offer systems-only plans for those who only need select coverage (such as for heating). You can also find plans that cover only select appliances. 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 improper installation and preexisting conditions. Additionally, most policies will exclude appliance components or cosmetic issues, routine maintenance, theft, or defects. Providers outline their limitations and exclusions in their service contracts. Read your contract thoroughly to ensure you understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Provider reputation is another important factor to consider. You can browse real customer reviews on sites like Google Reviews, Trustpilot, and Best Company or check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Ratings and reviews can give you insight into how a company handles claims and customer service. Check with the Washington Consumer Protection Division to verify that a provider holds a license with the state.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's network of service providers. The company 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 the names of familiar service contractors. Rural homeowners may consider choosing a home warranty provider that lets customers select their technicians. You'll want the option to source your own providers if no in-network ones are available in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Shoreline
Is a home warranty required in Shoreline?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Shoreline's best home warranty provider?
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?
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