Are Home Warranties Worth It for Detroit Residents?
Home warranties are worthwhile for Detroit residents. Detroit can have fairly hot days during the summer, and you probably use your air conditioner frequently during warmer months. Your air conditioner can malfunction over time due to breakdowns from regular wear and tear.
Detroit 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.
Detroit's regular rain showers can also affect your home's roof. Some home warranty companies offer limited roof-leak coverage to financially assist with repair. Lastly, your home warranty will connect you with trustworthy service providers.
A reputable home warranty is a good investment because companies vet their technicians. If you don't have time to do the research yourself, your home warranty provider can give you peace of mind that someone reliable will handle your problem.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
These important factors can help you determine the right home warranty plan for your needs.
Cost
We pulled 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and found that the average home warranty costs between $53–$62 per month. There are also service call fees that apply each time you file a claim. These fees range from $65–$125 per claim. Comprehensive home warranties cost more than basic ones, and home systems coverage plans cost more than appliance plans. You can select add-on coverage options, but these will increase your monthly cost. Consider your specific needs before choosing 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 need 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 usually only cover normal wear and tear. This doesn't include preexisting conditions or improper installation. Most policies also won't cover cosmetic issues or appliance components, routine maintenance, defects, or theft. You can read about your provider's limitations and exclusions in your service contract. Read carefully to ensure you understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Provider reputation is another important factor to consider. You can read customer reviews on sites such as Google Reviews, Best Company, and Trustpilot or check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Reviews and ratings can give you insight into how a company handles claims and customer service. Check with the Michigan Attorney General to verify that a provider holds a valid state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's service provider network. Trustworthy home warranty providers source licensed and registered contractors to handle 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. Residents of rural areas should consider a home warranty policy that allows the customer to choose their technician. Rural areas may not have any in-network service providers available, so customers might need to source their own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Detroit
Is a home warranty required in Detroit?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in Detroit?
Can I get a home warranty that covers other types of home items?
Why is there a waiting period before my home warranty coverage begins?
How long does a home warranty typically last?
How do I file a claim with my home warranty provider?
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