Are Home Warranties Worth It for Wauwatosa Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Wauwatosa residents. Wauwatosa generally has mild temperatures, but you may still use your air conditioner frequently during the warmer months. Your air conditioning system can malfunction over time due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Wauwatosa winters are very cold, which means having reliable heating is important. HVAC system replacement can cost from $2,500 to $8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, run about $644–$737 per year, based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies nationwide.
The regular rain in Wauwatosa can cause damage to your roof. Some home warranty providers offer limited roof-leak coverage, which can ease the financial burden of roof repair. Finally, home warranties connect you with trusted service providers.
Reputable home warranty companies vet each service provider they work with. If you don't have time to do the research yourself, investing in a home warranty ensures a trustworthy technician will fix your issue.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Think about these key factors when selecting the right 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 approximately $53–$62 per month. Additionally, you'll pay a service call fee every time you file a claim. Service call 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. Most providers offer add-on coverage options for an additional cost. Consider your specific needs before selecting a plan.
Coverage
Most home warranties can be somewhat customized to your needs. Make a list of the systems and appliances that you use often and would like covered. If you only want coverage for select appliances or systems (such as your heating), you can often find plans to fit. 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 typically only cover breakdowns from normal wear and tear. This doesn't include preexisting conditions or improper installation. Most policies will also not cover cosmetic issues or appliance components, theft, routine maintenance, or defects. You can read about your provider's limitations and exclusions within your service contract. Read carefully to ensure you understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Consider a provider's reputation before committing to a plan. Check its Better Business Bureau rating. Also read customer reviews on sites such as Best Company, Google Reviews, and Trustpilot. Reading these reviews gives 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 license with the state.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's network of service providers. The company you choose should use licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests; make sure to ask your company where and how it sources technicians. Choose a provider that mentions service contractors you're familiar with. Rural homeowners may consider home warranties that allow the customer to choose their technician. You'll want to be able to source your own provider if there are no in-network ones in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Wauwatosa
Is a home warranty required in Wauwatosa?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Wauwatosa's best home warranty provider?
Do home warranties cover other types of home items?
Why is there a waiting period before my home warranty coverage begins?
How is a home warranty different from homeowners insurance?
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