Are Home Warranties Worth It for Houston Residents?
Yes, home warranties are valuable for Houston residents. Summers in Houston 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.
Houston has fairly mild winters, but it's still important to make sure your heating works when needed. The cost of an HVAC system replacement can range between $2,500 and $8,000. A home warranty plan is comparatively cheaper, only $644–$737 a year, based on 120 quotes we received from home warranty companies across the nation.
The regular rain in Houston can damage your roof. The financial burden of this will be lessened if you have a home warranty with roof-leak protection. 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're focused on work or other priorities, your home warranty provider can ensure that someone reliable will handle your issue.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
These important factors can help you choose the best home warranty plan for your needs.
Cost
We requested 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. Service call fees range from $65–$125 per claim. Comprehensive home warranty plans typically cost more than basic ones. Appliance plans usually cost less than home systems coverage plans. Add-on coverage options raise the monthly cost, so consider your particular needs before purchasing a plan.
Coverage
You can often find home warranty plans that cover specific appliances and systems. Determine whether you need coverage for major systems (like air conditioning), specific appliances, or for both. Then ask your provider about its options for customized coverage. Here 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 damage from normal wear and tear. They don't cover improper installation or preexisting conditions. Additionally, home warranties don't cover appliance components or cosmetic issues, defects, theft, or routine maintenance. Providers will outline limitations and exclusions in their service contracts. Read your contract thoroughly to make sure you understand the terms and conditions of your plan.
Provider Reputation
Provider reputation is another important factor to consider. You can read customer reviews on sites like Best Company, Google Reviews, and Trustpilot or check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Ratings and reviews can provide insight into how a company handles customer service and claims. Check with the Texas Attorney General to verify that a provider holds a license with the state.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's network of service providers. Reliable home warranty providers source licensed and registered contractors to fulfill service requests. We suggest asking a provider how and where it sources technicians. Select a provider that mentions service contractors you're familiar with. Residents of rural areas should consider choosing a home warranty that lets them select their technician. Rural areas may not have any in-network service providers available, and customers may need to source their own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Houston
Do I need a home warranty in Houston?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Houston's best home warranty provider?
Can I get a home warranty that covers 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 do I file a claim with my home warranty provider?
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