Are Home Warranties Worth It for Cincinnati Residents?
Home warranties are beneficial for Cincinnati residents. Cincinnati can have fairly hot days during the summer, and you probably use your air conditioner frequently during warmer months. Your air conditioning system may malfunction over time from heavy use.
Winters in Cincinnati can be mild, but there are still days when you rely on your heating. 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 across the nation.
The regular rain in Cincinnati can damage your roof. Some home warranty companies offer limited roof-leak coverage, which can mitigate the cost of roof repair. 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
Consider these important factors when picking your home warranty plan.
Cost
We received 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and determined that home warranties cost approximately $53–$62 per month. There are also service call fees whenever you file a claim. These fees range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans are generally more affordable than comprehensive ones. A home systems coverage plan will usually cost more than an appliance plan. You can often get add-on coverage for an additional monthly cost. Be sure you know what you need before purchasing a plan.
Coverage
You can often find home warranty plans that cover specific systems and appliances. Determine whether you want coverage for major systems (like air conditioning), specific appliances, or for both. Then ask your provider what its options are 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
Home warranties typically only cover damage 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. Each provider will outline its exclusions and limitations in your service contract. Read your contract thoroughly to fully understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
You should also consider provider reputation. You can also read customer reviews on sites like Google Reviews, Trustpilot, and Best Company. Reviews and ratings can show you how a company handles customer service and claims. Check with the Ohio Consumer Protection Section to verify a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's service provider network. Make sure you ask your company where and how it sources technicians. A reputable company should use licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests. We recommend picking a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Those residing in rural areas should consider a home warranty policy that lets them choose their technician. In-network service providers may not be available in your area, so it's important to have the option to source your own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Cincinnati
Do I need a home warranty in Cincinnati?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Cincinnati'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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