Are Home Warranties Worth It for Sacramento Residents?
Yes, home warranties are worth it for Sacramento residents. Sacramento summers are very hot, which makes it extremely important that your air conditioner is working well. However, this system can malfunction over time from heavy use.
Sacramento winters are fairly mild, but you still want a reliable 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 across the nation. Even the infrequent rain in Sacramento can damage your home's roof.
The financial burden of this will be lessened if you have a home warranty with roof-leak protection. Lastly, home warranties connect you with trustworthy service providers. When life is keeping you busy, you want to know that a reliable technician is handling your repairs.
Reputable home warranty companies vet all their service providers.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
These important factors can help you select 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 an average of $53–$62 a month. You'll also pay a service call fee each time you file a claim. These fees range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans tend to be more affordable than comprehensive ones. Home systems coverage plans tend to cost more than appliance plans. With most plans, you can get add-on coverage options for an additional monthly cost. Consider your particular needs before committing to a plan.
Coverage
Figure out which appliances and systems you use most often. Most home warranty providers offer custom coverage tailored to your needs. If you only want coverage for select systems, such as your air conditioner, most companies offer systems-only plans. The same is true if you only want coverage for 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 also won't cover appliance components or cosmetic issues, routine maintenance, defects, or theft. Each provider outlines exclusions and limitations within its service contract. Make sure you read it and understand your protection plan's exact terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Carefully consider a provider's reputation before deciding on a plan. Check its Better Business Bureau rating. In addition, read customer reviews on sites like Best Company, Trustpilot, and Google Reviews. Reading these reviews gives you an idea of how providers handle claims and customer service. Check with the California Department of Consumer Affairs to verify the status of a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's network of service providers. Trustworthy home warranty providers source licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. We suggest asking a provider how and where it sources technicians. We recommend picking a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Rural homeowners might consider choosing a home warranty provider that lets customers choose 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 Sacramento
Do I need a home warranty in Sacramento?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Sacramento's best home warranty provider?
Do home warranties cover other types of home items?
Why do home warranties have a waiting period before coverage begins?
How long does a home warranty typically last?
How can I maximize the value of my home warranty?
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