Best 6 Home Warranty Companies in Madera, CA
- Fact Checked
- Updated 2024-06-22 00:00:00
Being a homeowner in California can be expensive. Not only that, but many cities in the Golden State can see days of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. To combat extreme heat, many homeowners rely on air conditioning.
According to the American Housing Survey, 10.7 million California homes have primary AC, such as central air. If your central AC breaks down, a home warranty can help deal with the problem. Below, find our list of the top home warranty companies in Madera, California.
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
- Holds high ratings among customer service reviews
- Covers repairs with a 60-day workmanship guarantee
- Offers an extensive list of 30+ add-on coverages
- Provides an easy claims process
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
- Offers generous coverage caps
- Allows customers to build their own plans
- Provides the option to choose the service fee you want to pay
- Features broad coverage on up to 33 appliances and systems
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
- Provides low service fees compared to other home warranty providers
- Includes two extra months of coverage in annual signup
- Has an appliance-only, systems-only, and combo plan option
6 Best Home Warranty Companies in Madera
Brands are algorithmically curated from a database of local service providers near you. We require a minimum number of Google reviews and average ratings for provider inclusion.
American Home Shield
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Pros
- Offers generous coverage caps
- Allows customers to build their own plans
- Provides the option to choose the service fee you want to pay
- Features broad coverage on up to 33 appliances and systems
Cons
- Doesn’t let customers choose their own technician
- Offers limited add-on options
52 Years in Business
BBB Rating:B
Liberty Home Guard
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Pros
- Holds high ratings among customer service reviews
- Covers repairs with a 60-day workmanship guarantee
- Offers an extensive list of 30+ add-on coverages
- Provides an easy claims process
Cons
- Lacks transparency on service call fee pricing
- Excludes coverage for known or unknown pre-existing conditions
6 Years in Business
BBB Rating:A+
Select Home Warranty
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Pros
- Provides low service fees compared to other home warranty providers
- Includes two extra months of coverage in annual signup
- Has an appliance-only, systems-only, and combo plan option
Cons
- Has a $75 cancellation fee
- Low coverage caps
11 Years in Business
BBB Rating:B-
AFC Home Warranty
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Pros
- Provides an unlimited workmanship guarantee
- Offers generous appliance coverage limits
- Allows you to choose your own contractor
Cons
- Limits coverage limits for older items based on depreciated value
- Requires you to file a claim immediately after discovering an issue
14 Years in Business
BBB Rating:B
First American Home Warranty
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Pros
- Allows you to choose your service call fee
- Doesn’t have a coverage cap on heating, cooling, or ductwork
- Accepts 24/7 service calls
- Offers replacement of some covered items that are too damaged to repair
Cons
- Doesn’t let customers choose their own contractor
- Charges higher for coverage compared to other providers
39 Years in Business
BBB Rating:B
2-10 Home Buyers Warranty
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Pros
- Offers a $25,000 annual coverage cap
- Pairs plans with a plan-length workmanship guarantee
- Offers unique perks such as color matching appliance replacements
Cons
- Charges a monthly processing fee if you choose monthly premiums
- Excludes washer and dryer coverage from most plans
39 Years in Business
BBB Rating:A-
BBB ratings are accurate as of August 2023. Cost figures are based on information available on provider websites and are accurate as of August 2023. Request a quote from each company to see prices in your area.
Facts about Madera
- Average Max Temperature:68°F
- Average Min Temperature:48°F
- Average Annual Snowfall:0.6”
- Homeownership Rate:64%
- Median Home Size:2,000 sqft
- Median Home Price:$385,578
Are Home Warranties Worth It for Madera Residents?
Home warranties are beneficial for Madera residents. Summers in Madera are very hot, which makes it extremely important that your air conditioner works well. However, this system can malfunction over time from heavy use.
Madera winters can be fairly mild, but there are still times when you want to have a reliable heating system. HVAC system replacement can cost anywhere from $2,500–$8,000, compared to a home warranty coming in at around $644–$737 annually based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies across the nation.
Even the infrequent rain in Madera can damage your home's roof. The financial burden of this will be lessened if you have a home warranty with roof-leak coverage.
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
Consider these important factors when picking the right home warranty plan for you.
Cost
We received 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and found that home warranties cost an average of $53–$62 per month. There are also service call fees whenever you file a claim. Service call fees range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans tend to be more affordable than comprehensive ones. Appliance plans are typically less expensive than home systems coverage plans. Most plans give you the option of getting add-on coverage options for an additional monthly fee. Consider your specific needs before choosing a plan.
Coverage
Figure out which appliances and systems you use the most. Most home warranties offer custom coverage tailored to your needs. If you only want coverage for select systems, like your air conditioner, most providers offer systems-only plans. The same is true if you only want coverage for certain appliances. 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
Home warranties usually only cover normal wear and tear. This doesn't include improper installation or preexisting conditions. Most policies will also not cover cosmetic issues or appliance components, defects, routine maintenance, or theft. You can read about your provider's exclusions and limitations within your service contract. Read carefully to ensure you understand your plan's terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Consider a provider's reputation before choosing a plan. Check its Better Business Bureau rating. In addition, read customer reviews on sites like Best Company, Trustpilot, and Google Reviews. These reviews can give you an idea of how providers handle claims and customer service. Check with the California Department of Consumer Affairs to verify that a provider holds a license with the state.
Contractor Network
Take into account a home warranty company's network of service providers. Be sure to ask your provider where and how it sources technicians. A reputable company should use licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests. Choose a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Rural homeowners might opt for a home warranty that allows them to choose their technician. It's important to have the option to source your own provider if there are no in-network ones in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions about Home Warranty in Madera
No, Madera doesn't require homeowners to have a home warranty. However, we recommend purchasing one because it helps you maintain a budget to cover expensive appliance and system breakdowns. It'll also save you time you'd otherwise spend searching for a reputable service technician.
Preexisting conditions are breakdowns or issues experienced by a home appliance or system before your warranty coverage begins. Providers usually won't cover preexisting conditions. You should purchase a home warranty policy while all your systems and appliances are still in working order to ensure complete protection.
The best home warranty in Madera depends on your specific needs. Liberty Home Guard is a solid choice if you need unique coverage. Consider American Home Shield if you're looking for comprehensive coverage limits.
Yes, home warranties cover many types of home items other than common appliances and systems. For example, home warranties cover septic systems, well pumps, pools and spas, stand-alone freezers, sump pumps, and more. Providers normally cover these items as add-ons. Check with a company representative to see what add-ons are available.
Most home warranty companies have a waiting period of 30 days before coverage begins. This is to know that any system and appliance breakdowns are from normal wear and tear rather than a preexisting condition. Home warranty providers won't cover an already broken item.
A home warranty only covers household systems and appliances that need repairing and replacing due to normal wear and tear. Homeowners insurance, on the other hand, provides coverage for homes for damage from disasters like fires, accidents, and property losses.
More Home Warranty Resources
Sources
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