Despite the fact that there are a handful of key central features that every home needs protection for, selecting a home warranty policy is still a deeply personal choice. Homeowners in Wisconsin should consider location-specific aspects like weather patterns and local service availability. Considering all of this can help you find a home warranty policy that feels right for you and offers the peace of mind you need.
HVAC Coverage
Many home warranty companies offer comprehensive coverage for your HVAC system (a.k.a the heating, cooling and ventilation system). Even if you aren’t in a specifically cold part of Wisconsin, those one-off heat waves and winter chills can quickly remind you how crucial a properly running HVAC system is. HVAC repair costs can be around $400 overall, though it depends on what needs to be repaired, as the broader cost range is $100 to over $2,500. Though these repairs can be expensive, you don’t want to run the risk of your HVAC dying during an extreme winter storm.
Identify the Coverage You Need
To get the most out of a home warranty, start by identifying your tailored 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 inventory of what’s relatively new and may still be protected by a manufacturer’s warranty.
It’s also smart to factor in which systems or repairs could be especially labor-intensive 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.
Read Sample Contracts, Coverage Exclusions and Limits
Before choosing a home warranty provider, take time to explore the sample contracts they frequently showcase on their websites. These documents can give you a more comprehensive idea of what you’re signing up for, including key insights like cancellation policies, renewal conditions, and—most importantly—coverage exclusions.
For example, a provider may cover roof leaks, but only when the damage is caused by normal wear and tear and only up to a capped amount, like $5,000. Knowing specifics like that right away allows you to reach out to the company with questions before committing. These limitations are particularly important in Wisconsin, where severe weather can wreak havoc on systems like HVAC or appliances that may already be aging. Be sure to review those sample contracts carefully—they’ll help you toward a more informed decision and prepare you for what to expect during a winter storm or any other high-stress scenario.
Compare Monthly Costs and Fees
Budget is likely the most important aspect of the home warranty company research process. If you can’t shell out for a specific plan, then why consider it? To help you in the long run, we suggest comparing plans and premiums against what you can spend and eliminating any options that don’t fit into your financial plan. If you’re budget conscious then reviewing the cheapest home warranty companies may be a great starting point.
Look At Reviews
Customer reviews are an important part of determining which home warranty company is best for you in Wisconsin. We recommend reading through recent reviews (from the past year or so) to get the most accurate picture of things. Other tips include looking into specific keywords you’re particularly interested in (such as “washer repair” or “cancellation fee”) and looking for reviews from other homeowners in Wisconsin. Referrals can also be helpful here so be sure to ask people you know in your area to see if they have a plan they’d recommend.
Wisconsin Home Warranty Regulations
Home warranties are regulated in Wisconsin by the Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance. If you run into any issues, we recommend contacting that office for help and to file a complaint against a company if needed.