american home warrenty
American home warrenty
American Home Shield Home Warranty Review
If you own or plan to purchase a home, american home warrenty can be a valuable investment. These warranties cover the cost of repairing or replacing major home appliances and systems, which may not be covered by your homeowner's insurance policy. American Home Shield Home Warranty is a popular provider to consider when researching the best home warranties for your needs and budget. Keep reading to learn more about their offerings and whether they may be a good fit for you.
What Is a Home Warranty?
A home warranty is a service contract that covers the cost of repairs or replacements for major home systems and appliances. Home warranties typically provide coverage for things like HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical, kitchen appliances, and more.
Homeowners purchase a home warranty to protect themselves from the cost of unexpected repairs or replacements, which can be expensive. The warranty company charges an annual or monthly fee, and in exchange, the homeowner receives coverage for specific items or systems.
When a covered item breaks down, the homeowner contacts the warranty company, which will send a service technician to assess the problem. If the technician determines that the issue is covered by the warranty, the homeowner pays a service fee, and the warranty company covers the remaining cost of the repair or replacement.
It's important to note that home warranties have limitations and exclusions, so it's essential to read the contract carefully to understand what is and isn't covered. Additionally, some warranties may require the homeowner to use specific service providers or may have caps on the amount of coverage provided.
Why Do I Need a Home Warrenty?
Whether or not you need a home warranty depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. Here are some reasons why you might consider purchasing a home warranty:
- Financial protection: A home warranty can provide financial protection against unexpected repairs or replacements for major home systems and appliances. If you don't have an emergency fund or savings set aside for home repairs, a warranty can be a good way to protect yourself from potentially large expenses.
- Peace of mind: Knowing that you have a home warranty in place can provide peace of mind, especially if you're worried about the condition or age of your home's systems and appliances.
- Convenience: A home warranty can provide a convenient way to get repairs or replacements done quickly and easily. Instead of having to research and find a service provider on your own, you can simply contact the warranty company, and they will send a qualified technician to address the problem.
- Added value: If you're planning to sell your home, having a home warranty in place can be an added selling point for potential buyers, as it can provide them with added assurance that they won't be hit with unexpected repair bills after they move in.
Ultimately, whether or not a home warranty is right for you will depend on your individual circumstances, budget, and preferences. If you're considering purchasing a home warranty, it's a good idea to carefully read the contract and understand exactly what is and isn't covered, as well as any limitations or exclusions.
What does a home warranty cover?
The specific items or systems covered by a home warranty can vary depending on the provider and the plan you select. However, in general, a home warranty can provide coverage for the following:
- HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems, including ductwork, thermostats, and electrical systems.
- Plumbing, including pipes, drains, water heaters, and plumbing stoppages.
- Electrical systems, including wiring, circuit breakers, and outlets.
- Kitchen appliances, including refrigerators, ovens, cooktops, and dishwashers.
- Laundry appliances, including washers and dryers.
- Garage door openers.
- Built-in microwave ovens.
- Ceiling and exhaust fans.
It's important to note that even if an item or system is covered by a home warranty, there may be limitations and exclusions, so it's essential to read the contract carefully to understand what is and isn't covered. Additionally, some warranties may require the homeowner to use specific service providers or may have caps on the amount of coverage provided.
Is a Home Warranty Worth It?
Whether a home warranty is worth it depends on your individual circumstances, preferences, and budget. Here are some factors to consider when deciding if a home warranty is right for you:
- Age of your home and systems: If your home and its systems and appliances are relatively new, you may not need a home warranty as much as someone with an older home. Newer systems and appliances are less likely to break down, so you may not need the added protection of a warranty.
- Cost of repairs and replacements: If you have an emergency fund or savings set aside for home repairs, you may not need a home warranty as much as someone who doesn't have these resources. If you can afford to pay for repairs and replacements out of pocket, you may not need to pay for a warranty.
- Frequency of repairs: If you've had to make frequent repairs to your home's systems and appliances in the past, a home warranty may provide added peace of mind and financial protection.
- Coverage and cost: Before purchasing a home warranty, it's important to carefully read the contract and understand what is and isn't covered, as well as any limitations or exclusions. You should also compare the cost of the warranty to the potential cost of repairs and replacements to determine if it's a good value for you.
Ultimately, whether or not a home warranty is worth it depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. If you're considering purchasing a home warranty, it's a good idea to do your research, compare plans and providers, and carefully read the contract to ensure that you're getting the coverage you need at a price you can afford.
Home Warranty Benefits
There are several benefits to having a home warranty, including:
- Peace of mind: Knowing that you have a home warranty in place can provide peace of mind, knowing that if something goes wrong with your covered items or systems, you have a plan in place to address it.
- Cost savings: If you have a covered item or system that needs repair or replacement, a home warranty can potentially save you money on the cost of those repairs or replacements. Instead of paying for the full cost out of pocket, you would only need to pay the service fee.
- Convenient and easy: When you have a home warranty, you don't need to worry about finding a qualified contractor or scheduling repairs yourself. The home warranty company will take care of all of that for you.
- Predictable budgeting: With a home warranty, you know exactly what you'll be paying each month, which can make it easier to budget for home maintenance and repairs.
- Increased home value: Having a home warranty in place can make your home more attractive to potential buyers, as it provides reassurance that the home's systems and appliances are covered in the event of a breakdown.
It's important to note that the benefits of a home warranty may vary depending on the specific plan you choose, as well as the age and condition of your home and its systems and appliances. Before purchasing a home warranty, it's a good idea to do your research and understand what is and isn't covered, as well as the cost of the plan and any additional options or upgrades you may want to consider.
Do I Need Homeowners Insurance and a Home Warranty?
Yes, you typically need both homeowners insurance and a home warranty to fully protect your home and its contents.
Homeowners insurance is designed to protect you in the event of a catastrophic event, such as a fire or natural disaster. It provides coverage for damage to your home, as well as your personal belongings, and may also provide liability coverage if someone is injured on your property.
A home warranty, on the other hand, is designed to cover the repair or replacement of your home's major systems and appliances when they fail due to normal wear and tear. It can help cover the cost of repairs or replacements for items such as your heating and cooling system, water heater, and kitchen appliances.
While homeowners insurance provides broader coverage for major events, a home warranty provides more targeted coverage for specific items in your home. It's possible to experience a breakdown or malfunction of a covered item or system that is not related to a catastrophic event, which is where a home warranty can be particularly useful.
In short, while homeowners insurance and a home warranty serve different purposes, they complement each other and can work together to provide comprehensive protection for your home and its contents.
Home warranties can be beneficial for both home buyers and sellers.
For home buyers, a home warranty can provide peace of mind knowing that if something goes wrong with their home's major systems or appliances, they have a plan in place to address it. It can also be an attractive feature for potential buyers, as it provides reassurance that the home's systems and appliances are covered in the event of a breakdown. Many home buyers choose to purchase a home warranty at the time of closing, as it provides coverage from the moment they take ownership of the home.
For home sellers, offering a home warranty as part of the sale can be a way to make their home more attractive to potential buyers. It can provide an added layer of protection and give buyers confidence that they won't be facing unexpected repair bills shortly after closing. It can also be a way for sellers to differentiate their home from other properties on the market.
In some cases, a home warranty may be included as part of the purchase agreement or negotiated as part of the sale. However, it's important for both buyers and sellers to understand what is and isn't covered by the home warranty, as well as any limitations or exclusions that may apply. It's also a good idea to research different home warranty providers and plans to find one that meets your specific needs and budget.
American Home Shield Review and Prices
What Is American Home Shield?
American Home Shield is one of the largest American Home Warrenty providers in the United States. Founded in 1971, the company provides coverage for major home systems and appliances, including HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical, kitchen appliances, and more. American Home Shield has a network of more than 16,000 pre-screened service technicians, and they offer a variety of plans to fit different needs and budgets.
When a covered item breaks down, the homeowner contacts American Home Shield, which will send a qualified service technician to assess the problem. If the technician determines that the issue is covered by the warranty, the homeowner pays a service fee, and American Home Shield covers the remaining cost of the repair or replacement.
American Home Shield has been accredited by the Better Business Bureau since 1997 and has an A+ rating. They have also won multiple awards for customer service and satisfaction, including the 2021 Women's Choice Award for America's Most Recommended Home Warranty Provider.
Home Warranty Coverage Options and Upgrades
Many home warranty companies, including American Home Shield, offer a variety of coverage options and upgrades that allow you to customize your plan to fit your specific needs. Here are some common options and upgrades that you might consider:
- Additional appliances or systems: Depending on your plan, you may be able to add coverage for additional appliances or systems that are not included in the standard coverage. For example, you might choose to add coverage for a pool, spa, or well pump.
- Pre-existing conditions: Some companies offer coverage for pre-existing conditions, which can be helpful if you have an item or system that is already malfunctioning or in need of repair when you purchase the plan.
- Enhanced coverage: Some plans offer enhanced coverage that goes beyond the basic coverage provided by the standard plan. This might include things like coverage for rust or corrosion, or the ability to upgrade to a higher-end appliance or system if the original item needs to be replaced.
- Service fee options: As mentioned earlier, many companies allow you to choose from different service fee options, which can affect the cost of your plan. Choosing a higher service fee may result in a lower monthly cost, while choosing a lower service fee will result in a higher monthly cost.
- Green coverage: Some companies offer coverage for eco-friendly or energy-efficient appliances or systems, which can be helpful if you're trying to reduce your carbon footprint or save on energy costs.
When considering coverage options and upgrades, it's important to read the contract carefully and understand what is and isn't covered under each option. Additionally, you should consider the cost of the upgrades and whether they are worth the additional expense.
American Home Shield Plans
American Home Shield offers three different plans to customers: ShieldSilver, ShieldGold, and ShieldPlatinum. Unlike some of their competitors, American Home Shield's plans are not divided into separate categories for appliances or systems. Instead, they are structured in a tiered format.
To provide even more flexibility in plan customization and pricing, customers can choose from three different trade service call fees: $75, $100, or $125. Opting for a higher fee will result in a lower monthly cost. Additionally, customers can add coverage for additional items such as electronics or a pool, but it will come at an additional cost.
What does American Home Shield Warranty cover?
The coverage provided by American Home Shield varies depending on the plan you choose. However, in general, their plans cover the following:
- HVAC systems, including heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.
- Plumbing systems, including water heaters, toilets, faucets, and showers.
- Electrical systems, including wiring, electrical panels, and doorbells.
- Kitchen appliances, including ovens, cooktops, refrigerators, and dishwashers.
- Laundry appliances, including washers and dryers.
- Garbage disposals and built-in microwaves.
- Garage door openers.
In addition to these standard items, American Home Shield offers optional coverage for additional items such as pools, spas, well pumps, and septic systems.
It's important to note that there are limits to the coverage provided by American Home Shield, and some items may not be covered under certain circumstances. For example, some plans may not cover pre-existing conditions, and there may be limits on the amount of coverage provided for certain items. Before purchasing a plan, it's important to read the contract carefully and understand what is and isn't covered.
What Home Warranty Plans Typically Don't Cover
While American Home Shield covers a wide range of items and systems, there are certain items and situations that are generally not covered by their plans. Here are some examples:
- Pre-existing conditions: American Home Shield does not cover items or systems that were already broken or malfunctioning before the plan was purchased.
- Neglect or misuse: If an item or system fails due to neglect, misuse, or lack of maintenance, it may not be covered.
- Code violations: If a repair or replacement is necessary due to code violations or improper installation, it may not be covered.
- Cosmetic defects: American Home Shield does not cover cosmetic defects or items that do not affect the functionality of the item or system.
- Items under manufacturer's warranty: If an item or system is still under the manufacturer's warranty, American Home Shield may not cover it.
- Certain types of damage: Damage caused by natural disasters, pests, or other external factors may not be covered.
- Unusual or rare repairs: If a repair or replacement is necessary for an item or system that is unusually expensive or rare, it may not be covered.
It's important to note that these exclusions and limitations may vary depending on the plan you choose and the specific circumstances of your situation. Before purchasing a plan, it's important to read the contract carefully and understand what is and isn't covered.
Where Is American Home Shield Home Warranty Available?
American Home Shield is available in all 50 states in the United States, as well as in the District of Columbia. They have a network of over 16,000 contractors across the country who are pre-screened and qualified to provide repair and replacement services for covered items.
It's important to note that the availability of certain plans and coverage options may vary depending on where you live. Additionally, the cost of coverage may vary depending on factors such as the age and condition of your home, the items and systems you want to cover, and the service fee you choose.
If you're interested in purchasing American Home Warrenty from American Home Shield, it's a good idea to visit their website or contact their customer service department to get more information about the plans and options available in your area.
American Home Shield Warranty FAQ
How does the claims process work?
The claims process for a home warranty typically involves several steps:
- Identify the problem: If one of your covered systems or appliances breaks down, you will need to identify the issue and determine if it is covered by your home warranty. Check your warranty contract or contact your provider to confirm coverage.
- Contact your provider: Once you have confirmed that the issue is covered, contact your home warranty provider to file a claim. You will need to provide your contract number, the details of the problem, and any other relevant information.
- Dispatch a service provider: Your home warranty provider will dispatch a service provider to your home to assess the problem and determine if it can be repaired or if the item needs to be replaced.
- Repair or replacement: If the item can be repaired, the service provider will complete the repair work. If the item needs to be replaced, your home warranty provider will work with you to select a replacement item and schedule installation.
- Pay the service fee: When the repair or replacement work is completed, you will be responsible for paying a service fee, which is typically a set amount per service call.
It's important to note that the claims process may vary depending on your home warranty provider and the specific details of your contract. Some providers may require you to use their approved service providers, while others may allow you to select your own. Additionally, some providers may have specific timelines or requirements for filing a claim, so be sure to review your contract carefully and follow the procedures outlined by your provider.
Are there service call fees?
Yes, most home warranty providers require a service call fee when you request a repair or replacement. The service call fee is a set amount that you pay each time you use your home warranty, regardless of whether the item is repaired or replaced. The fee may vary depending on your provider and the specific plan you have chosen, but it typically ranges from $50 to $125 per service call.
It's important to note that the service call fee is separate from the cost of the repair or replacement. Your home warranty provider will cover the cost of the repair or replacement, up to the limits specified in your contract, but you will still be responsible for paying the service fee.
Some home warranty providers offer the option to choose a higher service fee in exchange for a lower monthly premium, while others may offer different service fee options to choose from. Be sure to review the details of your home warranty contract carefully to understand the service call fee requirements and any options available to you.
How much is American Home Shield Home Warranty coverage?
The cost of American Home Shield Home Warranty coverage can vary depending on several factors, including the plan you choose, the service fee you select, and any additional coverage options you add to your contract.
American Home Shield offers three main plans: ShieldSilver, ShieldGold, and ShieldPlatinum. The monthly cost of these plans ranges from around $40 to $60, depending on the level of coverage you need. In addition, you will need to select a service fee, which can range from $75 to $125 per service call, depending on the plan you choose. Choosing a higher service fee will typically result in a lower monthly premium.
If you want additional coverage beyond the standard plans, American Home Shield also offers several optional add-ons for an additional fee. These add-ons can include coverage for items like swimming pools, spas, and electronics.
It's important to note that the cost of home warranty coverage can vary widely depending on your location, the age and condition of your home, and other factors. Be sure to compare multiple home warranty providers and plans to find the best coverage and pricing for your needs.
How long is American Home Shield Warranty good for?
The length of the American Home Shield Home Warranty contract can vary depending on the plan you choose and the terms of your contract. In general, American Home Shield offers annual contracts that can be renewed on an ongoing basis.
When you sign up for an American Home Shield Home Warranty, you will typically be required to commit to a minimum contract term, which is usually one year. After the initial contract term expires, you can choose to renew your contract on an annual basis if you wish to continue coverage.
It's important to note that some of the coverage limitations and exclusions of your contract may change over time, and the cost of your coverage may also increase with each renewal. Be sure to review your contract carefully each year and compare your coverage and pricing options with other home warranty providers to ensure that you are getting the best value for your needs.
Is American Home Shield a good investment?
Whether or not American Home Shield Home Warranty is a good investment for you will depend on your individual needs and circumstances. If you own a home and want to protect yourself against the high costs of unexpected repairs or replacements for major appliances and systems, a home warranty can be a good investment.
American Home Shield is one of the largest and most established home warranty providers in the United States, with a strong reputation for quality service and customer support. The company offers a range of plans and options to fit different needs and budgets, and many customers report being satisfied with the coverage and service they receive.
That being said, there are some potential downsides to consider when investing in American Home Warrenty, including limitations on coverage, exclusions, and the cost of the service call fee. Additionally, some customers may not feel that they need the level of coverage provided by a home warranty, especially if their appliances and systems are relatively new or in good condition.
Ultimately, whether or not American Home Shield Home Warranty is a good investment for you will depend on your individual needs and circumstances, as well as your budget and personal preferences. It's always a good idea to do your research, compare multiple providers and plans, and read reviews from other customers before making a decision.