A home warranty is a service contract that helps cover the cost of repairing or replacing major home systems and appliances when they break down due to normal wear and tear. These plans can provide homeowners with peace of mind by offering financial protection against unexpected repair or replacement expenses.
Here’s a Detailed Guide on How to Get a Home Warranty in the USA:
Understand What a Home Warranty Covers
Before you start looking for a home warranty, it’s important to understand what these plans typically cover. Home warranties typically cover systems like plumbing, electrical, heating, and cooling, as well as major appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, and washers/dryers. However, the exact coverage can vary between providers and plans, so it’s essential to read the terms and conditions carefully.
Research Home Warranty Providers
Start by researching different home warranty providers. Look for reputable companies with a history of good customer service and transparent policies. You can do this by reading online reviews, asking for recommendations from friends or family, or consulting consumer protection agencies.
Compare Plans and Pricing
Home warranty providers offer various plans with different levels of coverage and pricing options. Compare the plans offered by different companies to find one that suits your needs and budget. Pay attention to coverage limits, deductibles, and any additional fees.
Request Quotes
Contact the home warranty providers you’re interested in and request quotes for the plans you’re considering. Be sure to ask about any discounts or promotions they may be offering. It’s essential to get a clear understanding of the costs involved.
Read the Fine Print
Carefully review the terms and conditions of the home warranty contract. Pay attention to items like coverage limits, exclusions, service call fees (also known as deductibles), and the process for filing claims. Ensure you understand what is and isn’t covered.
Choose a Plan and Purchase
After comparing quotes and thoroughly reviewing the terms, choose the home warranty plan that best meets your needs. Once you’ve made your decision, you can typically purchase the plan online or over the phone. Some providers may require a credit check or a home inspection before coverage begins.
Payment and Activation
Pay the required premium to activate your home warranty coverage. Typically, these plans are prepaid annually, although some providers may offer monthly payment options. Ensure you keep records of your payment and a copy of the contract for your reference.
Understand the Claim Process
Familiarize yourself with the process for filing claims with your home warranty provider. Most companies have a customer service hotline or an online portal for submitting claims. When a covered system or appliance breaks down, contact your warranty provider to initiate the repair or replacement process.
Schedule Repairs or Replacements
Once your claim is approved, the home warranty provider will arrange for a service technician or contractor to assess and repair or replace the covered item. Be prepared to pay the service call fee (deductible) when the technician visits.
Maintain the Warranty
To keep your home warranty in effect, make sure to perform regular maintenance on your covered systems and appliances as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. Failure to do so may result in denied claims.
Remember that home warranties are not the same as homeowner’s insurance. While homeowner’s insurance covers damage from unexpected events like fires or natural disasters, home warranties specifically cover the repair or replacement of systems and appliances due to wear and tear. Additionally, the specific terms and conditions of home warranties can vary widely, so it’s crucial to choose a plan that aligns with your needs and expectations.
Here Are Five Companies Known for Their Home Warranty Services:
American Home Shield (AHS)
American Home Shield is one of the most well-known home warranty companies in the United States. They offer various plans, including systems plans, appliance plans, and combo plans that cover both systems and appliances. Customers can also customize their coverage to meet their specific needs.
AHS has a large network of qualified service technicians and offers 24/7 customer support.
Choice Home Warranty
Choice Home Warranty is known for its competitive pricing and comprehensive coverage options. They provide plans that cover systems, appliances, or both. Customers can select from a range of optional add-ons, such as pool and spa coverage or central vacuum coverage.
Choice Home Warranty offers a 24/7 claims submission process and has a network of service technicians across the country.
Select Home Warranty
Select Home Warranty is another well-regarded company in the home warranty industry. They offer three main plans: Bronze Care, Gold Care, and Platinum Care. These plans cover a variety of home systems and appliances.
Select Home Warranty provides services in most states and offers a 30-day service work guarantee.
TotalProtect Home Warranty
TotalProtect Home Warranty offers comprehensive coverage for both systems and appliances. They have a range of plans to choose from, including a systems plan, an appliance plan, and a combo plan.
TotalProtect provides coverage in most states and offers a 180-day workmanship guarantee on covered repairs.
First American Home Warranty
First American Home Warranty is known for its flexible coverage options and affordable pricing. They offer Basic, Premier, and Premier Plus plans, which provide varying degrees of coverage for home systems and appliances.
First American Home Warranty has been serving customers for more than 35 years and has a large network of service contractors.
Before choosing a home warranty company, it’s crucial to read the contract terms, understand what is covered, and consider any additional costs like service fees or deductibles. Additionally, check customer reviews and ratings for each company to gauge their reputation and customer satisfaction levels. Keep in mind that the availability of these companies and their plans may have changed since my last update, so I recommend visiting their respective websites or contacting them directly for the most current information.