Key takeaways:
Whether you’re moving to a city with eccentric neighborhoods like Portland or recently bought a home nestled in coastal charm in Eugene, Oregon is indeed a state with lots to offer. Known for its strong business climate, excellent universities and outdoor activities, there are many reasons to love living here.
As homeowners, we understand that protecting your investment is crucial — this is where a home warranty plan comes into play. A recent survey from Porch.com revealed that yearly home maintenance costs for homes in Oregon were an estimated $15,754. With a home warranty plan, you may be able to reduce these costs.
Simply put, a home warranty is a contract that helps cover repair or replacement services for the major appliances and systems within your home. Home warranty plans, also known as home protection plans, offer home protection from costly surprises with affordable monthly payments.
Let’s go over some important aspects of a home warranty in Oregon.
How much does a home warranty cost in Oregon?
According to Forbes, home warranties can cost around $600 per year on average. The lowest cost was approximately $275. However, the most expensive comprehensive plans can cost up to $1,425.
Forbes also states that the monthly cost of a home warranty plan is around $50 per month, depending on the warranty. Home warranty companies typically provide a few options for service fees, ranging between $65 and $150.
What to look for in a home warranty in Oregon
When shopping for a home warranty plan in Oregon, it’s important to consider your specific needs and budget.
Here are some questions you can ask yourself when looking for a home warranty company in Oregon.
Is the company experienced and reputable?
Doing research is critical to determining whether you're working with a home warranty company that has a proven track record of being fair and reliable. The last thing you want to do is invest in a home warranty plan with a fly-by-night company that sees its customers as a money grab and won't provide quality service.
How much does it cost?
We discussed the costs associated with a home warranty plan above. However, it's wise to remember that not all home warranty plans are created equal. For instance, a comprehensive plan that covers most of your household systems and appliances will usually cost more than an appliance-based plan that doesn't cover systems such as your HVAC. So, while one company may seem more affordable than another on the surface, read the fine print before making a decision.
How does the company treat you?
The home warranty company that’s right for you should make you feel appreciated as a customer. When you work with a company like Cinch Home Services*, you’ll be treated like family. This means that when things break down in your home, we’ll step up to help you get it repaired as quickly as possible. We have a nationwide network of local service technicians to help you whenever you need them.
Does the company make things easy?
We believe that a good home warranty company is responsive, efficient and highly productive. As a homeowner, when one of your beloved appliances stops working, it may cause considerable stress and frustration. This is one of the main reasons why it’s imperative to have a home warranty company that makes it simple for you to request service, file a claim or get your questions answered.
Common repairs for homes in Oregon that a home warranty may cover
Many homeowners know there is no shortage of maintenance projects over a year. While Oregon is one of the most breathtaking states in the country, its particularly cold winters can strain heating systems and plumbing. With the right home warranty plan, you could potentially save on repairs to your HVAC systems and some plumbing.
Also, with cold weather and storms that can occur in Oregon, power outages may be expected during winter. These frequent outages can cause expensive repairs to household appliances such as dishwashers, refrigerators and more.
Additionally, if you live in a much older home in Oregon, and your appliances are old, it could mean that it’s just a matter of time before something stops working. Whether it’s a built-in oven that breaks down right before you need to prepare a dinner for friends or your heat stops working on the coldest day of the year, having a home warranty in Oregon can give you peace of mind that you’ll be able to get it fixed without a hefty, unexpected expense.
Click here to learn more and see if one of these home warranty plans suits you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a home warranty required in Oregon?
No, no law in Oregon currently mandates home warranty coverage. The rules surrounding what home warranty plans may provide and who regulates home warranty companies vary from state to state.
Who regulates home warranty companies in Oregon?
As a homeowner, you may have many questions about property maintenance and home warranty laws. In Oregon, home warranty companies are regulated by the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS) to protect consumers and ensure fair practices within the industry.
Is home warranty worth it in Oregon?
A home warranty plan in Oregon could be worth it because it provides peace of mind and helps you avoid major unexpected repair expenses on old houses and new construction.
When can you buy a home warranty in Oregon?
You can buy a home warranty in Oregon at anytime. If you're unhappy with your current home warranty, you can make the switch to a new one. A home warranty contract typically lasts for one year.
What does a home warranty cover?
A home warranty covers the cost of repair and replacement of major appliances and systems inside your home. Coverage of individual systems and appliances varies with the particular service provider and the plan you choose. However, the National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA) does mention some standard inclusions of systems and appliances on its website.
Who pays for a home warranty (buyer or seller)?
During a real estate sale, either the buyer or the seller may purchase a home warranty plan. The seller may purchase a home warranty plan to make the purchase more attractive to the buyer while avoiding costly repairs while the house is on the market. Meanwhile, as we've mentioned throughout the article, the buyer may purchase a home warranty plan to have peace of mind, especially when buying an older home with significant wear and tear appliances.
Now that we’ve explained why home warranty is important in Oregon, it's up to you to decide if a plan is right for you. Remember, keep your budget and your specific needs in mind as you begin your search for a home warranty company that you can trust.
*The product being offered is a service contract and is separate and distinct from any product or service warranty which may be provided by the home builder or manufacturer.
The information in this article is intended to provide guidance on the proper maintenance and care of systems and appliances in the home. Not all of the topics mentioned are covered by our home warranty or maintenance plans. Please review your home warranty contract carefully to understand your coverage.
Our blogs and articles may link to third-party sites that offer products, services, coaches, consultants, and/or experts. Any such link is provided for reference only and not intended as an endorsement or statement that the information provided by the other party is accurate. We are not compensated for any products or services purchased from these third-party links.