Are Home Warranties Worth It for Yakima Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Yakima residents. Yakima summers can have some very hot days, which means it's important that your air conditioner is working well. However, this system can malfunction over time due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Yakima 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 coming in at around $644–$737 annually based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies nationwide. Even Yakima's irregular rain can affect your roof.
Some home warranty providers offer limited roof-leak coverage to financially assist with repair. Finally, your home warranty will connect you with trustworthy service providers. A reputable home warranty is a good investment because companies vet their technicians.
If you don't have time to do the research yourself, your home warranty company can give you peace of mind that someone reliable will handle your problem.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Think about these important factors when selecting your home warranty plan.
Cost
We requested 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and found that home warranties cost an average of $53–$62 per month. You'll also pay service call fees each time 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. Consider your specific needs before choosing a plan, as add-on coverage options will increase your monthly price.
Coverage
You can often find home warranty plans that cover specific systems and appliances. Decide whether you need coverage for major systems (like heating), specific appliances, or for both. Then ask your provider what its options are for customized coverage. 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 only cover normal wear and tear, which excludes improper installation and preexisting conditions. Most policies also exclude appliance components or cosmetic issues, theft, routine maintenance, or defects. 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
Consider a provider's reputation before making a commitment. You can also read real customer reviews on sites such as Google Reviews, Trustpilot, and Best Company. Reading reviews can give you a sense of how providers handle customer service and claims. Check with the Washington Consumer Protection Division to verify the status of a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's service provider network. Quality home warranty providers source licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests. We suggest asking a provider how and where it sources technicians. Choose a provider that mentions service contractors you're familiar with. Homeowners in rural areas should consider going with a home warranty provider that customers choose their technician. There may be no in-network service providers available in these areas, so customers might need to source their own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Yakima
Is a home warranty required in Yakima?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Yakima's best home warranty provider?
Do home warranties cover other types of home items?
Why is there a waiting period before my home warranty coverage begins?
How long does a home warranty typically last?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.