Are Home Warranties Worth It for Madison Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Madison residents. Summers in Madison are fairly mild, but it's still important that your air conditioner works well. However, over time this system can malfunction due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Madison 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 received from home warranty companies across the nation.
The regular rain in Madison 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 reliable service providers.
Reputable home warranty companies vet all their service providers. If you're busy with work or other priorities, investing in a home warranty ensures a trustworthy technician will fix your issue.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Consider the following factors to determine the right home warranty plan for your needs.
Cost
We received 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 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
You can often find home warranty plans that cover specific appliances and systems. Determine whether you need coverage for major systems (like heating), specific appliances, or both. Then ask your provider about its options 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. Additionally, most policies will exclude cosmetic issues or appliance components, theft, routine maintenance, or defects. You can find 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
Provider reputation is another important factor to consider. You can browse real customer reviews on sites like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, 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 customer service and claims. Check with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection to verify that a provider holds a license with the state.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's service provider network. Make sure to ask where and how it sources technicians—reputable providers should always use licensed and registered contractors. Select a provider that mentions contractors you're familiar with. Rural homeowners might prefer home warranty policies that allow you to choose your technician. 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 Madison
Is a home warranty required in Madison?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Madison's best home warranty provider?
Can I get a home warranty that covers other types of home items?
Why is there a waiting period before my home warranty coverage begins?
How can I maximize the value of my home warranty?
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