Selecting a home warranty plan is a personal choice based on your specific needs, your home and the systems and appliances you want to protect. That said, every homeowner can keep key factors in mind to make the best possible home warranty decision. Additionally, there are certain considerations that Texas homeowners should pay extra attention to when comparing plans.
Coverage of Your HVAC System
Most home warranty companies offer HVAC coverage (a.k.a the heating, cooling and ventilation system). Even if you aren’t in a specifically cold part of Texas, those one-off heat waves and winter chills can quickly remind you how crucial an efficiently running HVAC system is. HVAC repair costs can be around $400 on average, though it hinges on what needs to be repaired, as the broader cost range is $100 to over $2,500. Though these repairs can be costly, you don’t want to take the chance of your HVAC dying during an extreme heat wave.
Know Your Coverage Needs
To get the most out of a home warranty, start by identifying your distinct coverage needs. Consider which home systems or appliances are likely to need attention soon (particularly those that are aging or approaching the end of their life). Take into account what’s relatively new and may still be protected by a manufacturer’s warranty.
It’s also smart to weigh which systems or repairs could be especially disruptive to fix, such as electrical wiring, plumbing or large appliances.
Once you’ve built a clear picture of your home’s needs, compare it against what home warranty companies cover. Matching your priorities with what different providers offer—and what fits your budget—can help ensure you choose a plan that’s truly worth the investment.
Compare Monthly Costs and Fees
Budget is arguably the most important aspect of the home warranty company research process. If you don’t have the money for a specific plan, then why look at it? To save time, our team suggests comparing plans and premiums against what you can spend and scratch out any options that don’t fit into your financial plan.
Look At Reviews
Consumer sentiments will reveal more information about a company than you’d think. If possible, read each company’s customer reviews from the last year or two, specifically, ideally on multiple platforms. Consider reaching out to your community, friends, family and neighbors to get a sense of their feelings on the providers they work with.
Read Sample Contracts, Coverage Exclusions and Limits
Sample contracts are frequently available for viewing on each home warranty provider’s website, and we suggest reviewing these so you can get a sense of what you could be signing up for. You’ll learn insights like terms of renewal, coverage exclusions and caps, payout limits and cancellation fees, which will guide you to your ultimate answer on which service is best for you.
Coverage exclusions and limits are especially crucial for Texas residents who frequently see extreme weather in certain months, as HVAC systems can fail and cause you to reach your limit quickly. Ensure you know what these limits are so you’ll know what to do in the case of a summer heat wave.
Are Home Warranties Regulated in Texas?
Home warranties are regulated in Texas by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. If you run into issues with a company, you can file any complaints there, and ask any questions you may have.
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