Are Home Warranties Worth It for Brookfield Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Brookfield residents. Summers in Brookfield are fairly mild, but it's still important that your air conditioner works well. However, this system can malfunction over time due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Brookfield also has freezing winters, meaning your heating system is working constantly during the colder months. The cost of replacing your HVAC system can range anywhere from $2,500–$8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, come in at only $644–$737 a year, based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies across the nation.
Brookfield's regular rain showers can also affect your roof. Some home warranty providers offer limited roof-leak coverage to financially assist with repair. Finally, a home warranty connects you with trustworthy service providers.
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 company can give you peace of mind that someone reliable will handle your issue.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
These key factors can help you 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 roughly $53–$62 monthly. You'll also pay a service call fee whenever you file a claim. Service call 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'll want a home warranty plan that covers these items. Most home warranties can be customized to your needs, and many companies offer systems-only plans for homeowners that only want select coverage (such as for heating). 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, defects, routine maintenance, or theft. You can read about your provider's exclusions and limitations within your service contract. Be sure to read the contract carefully to understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Also, consider provider reputation when choosing a plan. You can read customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and Best Company or look at a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Ratings and reviews are a great way to see how providers handle claims and customer service. Check with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection to verify the status of a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's service provider network. Be sure to ask your provider how and where it sources technicians. All reputable companies should use licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests. We recommend picking a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Rural homeowners may prefer home warranty policies with the option to choose their technicians. In-network service providers may be unavailable in these areas, so you'll want the option to choose your own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Brookfield
Do I need a home warranty in Brookfield?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Brookfield'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 can I maximize the value of my home warranty?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.