Are Home Warranties Worth It for La Crosse Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for La Crosse residents. La Crosse summers are fairly mild, but it's still important for your air conditioner to work properly. However, this system can malfunction over time due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
La Crosse winters are freezing, which makes having reliable heating extremely important. HVAC system replacement can cost from $2,500 to $8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, run about $644–$737 annually, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies across the nation.
The regular rain in La Crosse can damage your roof. The financial burden of this will be lessened if you have a home warranty with roof-leak coverage. Lastly, 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 provider can ensure that someone reliable will handle your problem.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Think about these key factors to determine the right home warranty plan for your needs.
Cost
We requested 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and determined that home warranties cost approximately $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 tend to be more affordable than comprehensive ones. Appliance plans are typically less expensive than home systems coverage plans. Most plans offer add-on coverage options for an additional monthly fee. Consider your particular needs before choosing a plan.
Coverage
Many home warranty companies offer plans for select appliances or systems. Figure out which appliances and systems you use most often before selecting a plan. If you only need coverage for certain major systems (like heating) or certain appliances, you can find a plan that meets your needs. 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 preexisting conditions and improper installation. Additionally, most policies will exclude cosmetic issues or appliance components, defects, routine maintenance, or theft. Providers will outline exclusions and limitations in their service contracts. Read your contract thoroughly to make sure you understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Look into a provider's reputation before choosing a plan. Check its Better Business Bureau rating. You can also read customer reviews on sites such as Google Reviews, Best Company, and Trustpilot. These reviews can give you an idea of how companies handle customer service and claims. Check with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection to verify that a provider holds a valid state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's network of service providers. Be sure to ask your provider where and how it sources technicians. All reputable companies should use licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. We recommend picking a provider that mentions service contractors you're familiar with. Rural homeowners may prefer home warranty policies that allow you to choose your technician. There may not be any in-network service providers in these areas, so you'll want the option to choose your own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in La Crosse
Do I need a home warranty in La Crosse?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in La Crosse?
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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