Are Home Warranties Worth It for New Berlin Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for New Berlin residents. Summers in New Berlin 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.
New Berlin winters can be freezing, which means you rely heavily on your heating system. HVAC system replacement 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. New Berlin's regular rain showers can also affect your roof.
Some home warranty providers offer limited roof-leak coverage to ease the financial burden of 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 provider can give you peace of mind that someone reliable will handle your problem.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
These important factors can help you determine the best 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 a month. You'll also pay a service call fee each time you file a claim. These fees typically 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 committing to a plan.
Coverage
You can look for a home warranty plan that covers specific systems and appliances. Decide whether you want coverage for major systems (such as heating), specific appliances, or for both. Then ask your provider about its options for customized coverage. 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
Generally, home warranties don't cover improper installation or preexisting conditions. Most policies only cover damage from normal wear and tear. Most will also exclude appliance components or cosmetic issues, defects, theft, or routine maintenance. 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
Look into a provider's reputation before deciding on a plan. Check its Better Business Bureau rating. You can also read customer reviews on sites like Best Company, Trustpilot, and Google Reviews. Reading these reviews gives you an idea of how companies handle claims and customer service. 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 service provider network. Companies should always send licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. Make sure you ask how and where a company sources its technicians. Choose a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Homeowners in rural areas should consider going with a home warranty provider that customers choose their technician. Rural areas may not have any in-network service providers available, and customers may need to source their own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in New Berlin
Do I need a home warranty in New Berlin?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in New Berlin?
Do home warranties cover other types of home items?
Why do home warranties have a waiting period before coverage begins?
How do I file a claim with my home warranty provider?
How can I maximize the value of my home warranty?
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