Are Home Warranties Worth It for Jacksonville Residents?
Home warranties are valuable for Jacksonville residents. Summers in Jacksonville are very hot, which makes it extremely important that your air conditioner works well. However, this system can malfunction over time from heavy use.
Jacksonville 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 anywhere from $2,500–$8,000. A home warranty plan is comparatively cheaper, only $644–$737 a year, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies nationwide.
Jacksonville's heavy rain can also affect your home's roof. Some home warranty companies offer limited roof-leak coverage to ease the financial burden of repair. Lastly, home warranties connect you with reliable service providers.
Reputable home warranty companies vet all their service providers. If you don't have time to do the research yourself, investing in a home warranty ensures a trustworthy technician will fix your issue.
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 approximately $53–$62 a month. You'll also pay a service call fee every time you file a claim. These fees typically range from $65–$125 per claim. Comprehensive home warranties cost more than basic ones, and home systems coverage plans cost more than appliance plans. Most providers offer add-on coverage options for an additional cost. Consider your specific needs before selecting a plan.
Coverage
Most home warranties can be somewhat customized to your needs. Think about which systems and appliances you use often and would like covered. If you only want coverage for select systems or appliances (such as your air conditioning), you can often find plans to fit. 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 cover only normal wear and tear, which excludes preexisting conditions and improper installation. Most policies also exclude cosmetic issues or appliance components, defects, theft, or routine maintenance. Your provider will outline its exclusions and limitations in its service contract. Thoroughly read your contract to fully understand the terms and conditions of your plan.
Provider Reputation
Also, consider a provider's reputation when making a decision. You can read customer reviews on sites such as Best Company, Trustpilot, and Google Reviews or look at a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Ratings and reviews are a great way to see how providers handle claims and customer service. Check with the Florida Division of Consumer Services to verify a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's service provider network. Make sure to ask how and where it sources technicians—reputable providers should always use licensed and registered contractors. If you can, use a provider that mentions contractors you're familiar with. Rural homeowners might prefer home warranty policies with the option to choose their technicians. 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 Jacksonville
Is a home warranty required in Jacksonville?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is Jacksonville'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 do I file a claim with my home warranty provider?
How can I maximize the value of my home warranty?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.