7 Best Home Warranty Companies in Canton, MI

How Does a Home Warranty Work?

A home warranty is a protection policy that helps Canton homeowners in lowering the costs of appliance and system repairs. The plans offer coverage to replace or repair appliances and systems that stop working due to normal wear and tear.

When something stops working, you submit a claim and pay a service fee. The home warranty company then finds a contractor to handle the replacement or repair. Homeowners may have out-of-pocket costs only if the cost of the repair or replacement exceeds the item's coverage limit. A home warranty plan gives homeowners a sense of security and can help avoid expensive emergency repairs. They can be especially helpful for buyers of older homes or homes with appliances near the end of their life span. However, newer homes with modern appliances and fixtures may not require a home warranty.

What Does a Home Warranty Cover?

Home warranties cover your home systems and appliances. Common appliances covered include garbage disposals, microwaves, dishwashers, dryers, washers, refrigerators, and more. Included systems are normally electrical, air conditioning, plumbing, and heating. Many home warranty providers offer add-on coverage for septic systems, roof leaks, central vacuums, and locksmiths. Most home warranty plans require Canton homeowners to wait 30 days before the plan will cover repairs. Moreover, policies typically only cover repairs and replacements resulting from normal wear and tear. Home warranties don't cover cosmetic issues, natural disasters, pre-existing conditions, or misusing a system or appliance. To make sure your next repair or replacement is covered, keep up with preventative maintenance.

Key Home Warranty Terms to Know

Before agreeing to a home warranty contract, you should learn key terms like:

• Endorsements: Optional add-on coverage for systems such as septic, well pumps, pools and more. Endorsements typically come with an additional fee.
• Service fee: The out-of-pocket cost you pay per claim for access to a contractor and repair coverage.
• Coverage limits: Dollar limits that cap how much the warranty will pay for certain repairs or replacements. Check limits on air conditioning units, roof leaks, appliances, and similar repairs.
• Contract rate: The pre-negotiated rate a home warranty company has with its contractors. This rate is usually less than typical retail costs.
• Claim approval: The process providers use to determine whether a requested repair or replacement is covered under a home warranty plan.
• Deductible: The amount you pay toward a covered repair before the warranty covers the rest. Some plans have per-claim or yearly deductibles.
• Trade call fee: An added fee that you'll sometimes need to pay for appliance-related claims.

If you remember these terms and key factors, it’ll help you understand costs and select a home warranty tailored to protecting your most essential home systems. Make sure to talk to companies about the specifics of coverage when getting a quote, so you can avoid unexpected fees.

Key Factors in Choosing a Home Warranty Company

When choosing a home warranty provider, there are several important factors to consider:

Coverage Options

Home warranty coverage can have major differences in what's included. Most plans provide coverage for AC, electrical, plumbing, heating, and appliances. More inclusive options also include protection for other items such as pools, spas, roof leaks, and well pumps. Look for providers with a diverse range of coverage options, including upgraded plans. This helps you tailor protection to your home's needs.

Service Fees

With any home warranty claim, you'll pay a service fee, usually falling in the $60 to $100 range, which gets paid per service call made. These per-claim charges can add up. You may decide to look for providers with lower service fees to maximize your savings on each claim. Some firms also offer disappearing deductibles when customers go a period with no claims filed.

Reputation

A home warranty provider's reputation can provide insight into things such as contractor quality, approval rates, repair timeliness, and customer service. Check review platforms such as Google Reviews, TrustPilot, or the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to research companies. Good ratings and feedback indicate a provider known for exceptional service.

Contractor Network

Home warranty companies keep networks of local contractors to handle repairs in your area. Reach out to potential providers to ask how many repair technicians they have in Canton and get an idea for how quickly your repairs could take place in an emergency situation. Bigger networks raise the probability of getting qualified contractors to promptly service your home.

Added Benefits

Certain home warranty providers offer extras such as protection for smart home devices, discounts on maintenance, and energy-efficient upgrades. These bonuses can provide extra value beyond repair coverage. Added perks can enhance your home and maximize your home warranty.

Is a Home Warranty Worth it in Canton?

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Benefits of a Home Warranty

Since temperatures in Canton can be quite cold in the winter, the weather can put a lot of strain on your HVAC system. Getting a home warranty policy can help homeowners save money if one of these systems or appliances breaks unexpectedly.

Not only does a home warranty provide some savings, but it also saves you time. If an appliance breaks, the last thing you want to do is find a contractor and schedule a repair. A home warranty takes care of the research by sending trusted professionals to your door when you need them most. A home warranty can also have value in other ways. For example, some policies can be transferred to another owner during a home sale.

Downsides of a Home Warranty

One of the major drawbacks of home warranties is not everything you care about may be covered. It’s important to compare the different plans and opt for one that covers all the appliances, systems, and add-ons you need.

Another downside is that home warranties may exclude some repairs, such as those due to natural disasters. For example, if a tree falls onto your house and damages the roof, the affected systems and appliances most likely won’t be covered by the home warranty.