Are Home Warranties Worth It for Waukesha Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Waukesha residents. Summers in Waukesha 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.
Waukesha winters are freezing, which makes having reliable heating extremely important. HVAC system replacement can cost anywhere between $2,500 and $8,000. Home warranties are comparatively cheaper, costing roughly $644–$737 per year, based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies across the nation.
The regular rain in Waukesha can damage your roof. The financial burden of this will be lessened if your home warranty has roof-leak coverage. Lastly, home warranties connect you with reliable technicians.
When work and other priorities keep you busy, you want to know a trustworthy service provider is handling your repairs. Reputable home warranty companies vet all their service providers.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Think about these key factors when picking the best home warranty plan for you.
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 each time you file a claim. These fees can range from $65–$125 per claim. Comprehensive home warranty plans typically cost more than basic ones. Appliance plans usually cost less than home systems coverage plans. Add-on coverage options increase your monthly price, so consider your particular needs before purchasing a plan.
Coverage
Figure out which systems and appliances you use most often. You want your home warranty plan to cover these items. Most plans can be tailored to your needs, and many companies offer systems-only plans for homeowners that only need select coverage (such as for heating). You can also find plans that cover only select appliances. 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
Home warranties usually only cover breakdowns from normal wear and tear. This doesn't include improper installation or preexisting conditions. Most policies will also not cover appliance components or cosmetic issues, routine maintenance, defects, or theft. Each provider will outline its limitations and exclusions in its service contract. Read your contract thoroughly to fully understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Carefully consider a provider's reputation before purchasing a plan. Check its Better Business Bureau rating. You can also read customer reviews on sites like Trustpilot, Best Company, and Google Reviews. These reviews can give you an idea of how providers 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. Any company you choose should use licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests; make sure to ask your company where and how it sources technicians. If you can, use a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Residents of rural areas should consider choosing a home warranty that lets them select their technicians. It's important to have the option to source your own providers if no in-network ones are available in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Waukesha
Do I need a home warranty in Waukesha?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in Waukesha?
Do home warranties cover 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 can I maximize the value of my home warranty?
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