Are Home Warranties Worth It for San Antonio Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for San Antonio residents. Summers in San Antonio 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.
Winters in San Antonio are fairly mild, but there will still be days when you rely on your heating. HVAC system replacement can cost anywhere between $2,500 and $8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, run about $644–$737 per year, based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies across the nation.
San Antonio's regular rain showers can also affect your roof. Some home warranty companies offer limited roof-leak protection to ease the financial burden of repair. Finally, home warranties connect you with trustworthy service providers.
Reputable home warranty companies vet every service provider they use. 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
These key factors can help you select the right home warranty plan for your needs.
Cost
We received 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home. From this we determined that the average home warranty cost is $53–$62 per month. Additionally, you'll pay a service call fee of between $65–$125 every time you file a claim. Basic home warranties cost less than comprehensive ones, and appliance plans cost less than home systems coverage plans. You can get add-on coverage options, but this will increase your monthly cost—consider your specific needs before selecting a plan.
Coverage
Most home warranty companies can tailor a plan to your needs. Think about which systems and appliances you use often and would like covered. If you only want coverage for select appliances or systems (such as your air conditioning), 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
Most home warranties only cover normal wear and tear, which excludes preexisting conditions and improper installation. Additionally, most policies will exclude appliance components or cosmetic issues, theft, defects, or routine maintenance. 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
Carefully consider a provider's reputation before committing to a plan. Check its Better Business Bureau rating. In addition, read customer reviews on sites such as Best Company, Trustpilot, and Google Reviews. Reading these reviews gives you an idea of how companies handle customer service and claims. Check with the Texas Attorney General to verify the status of a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's network of service providers. Companies should always send licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests. Make sure you ask where and how a company sources its technicians. Select a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Homeowners in rural areas 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 San Antonio
Is a home warranty required in San Antonio?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in San Antonio?
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 long does a home warranty typically last?
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