A home protection plan, often referred to as a home warranty, is a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of major home systems and appliances due to normal wear and tear. It’s designed to provide homeowners with peace of mind by offering financial protection against unexpected repair costs.
Understanding Home Protection Plans:
- Coverage: Home protection plans typically cover essential systems like HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), plumbing, electrical, and major appliances such as refrigerators, ovens, and washers/dryers.
- Service Call Fees: When an issue arises, homeowners pay a service call fee, usually around $75 to $125, for a technician to assess and repair the problem. The plan then covers the cost of repair or replacement as per the terms.
- Validity: Plans often last for one year and can be renewable annually. Some providers offer options for customized coverage based on specific needs or additional add-ons for items like pool equipment or additional appliances.
- Benefit: For homeowners worried about potential high repair costs or unexpected breakdowns, a home protection plan can offer financial security and simplified repair processes.
Best Home Protection Plans:
- American Home Shield (AHS): AHS is one of the most well-known providers, offering customizable plans and 24/7 customer service. They cover a wide range of systems and appliances with various plan options.
- Choice Home Warranty: Choice Home Warranty is recognized for its affordable plans and comprehensive coverage, including unique options for items like roof leaks.
- First American Home Warranty: Known for its flexible coverage, First American offers plans with add-ons for coverage of unique items such as well pumps and spa equipment.
- Select Home Warranty: This provider is praised for its budget-friendly plans and comprehensive coverage, particularly for systems like HVAC and plumbing.
- Total Home Protection: Total Home Protection offers competitive pricing, a large network of service providers, and various coverage plans with customizable options.
Selecting the Right Plan:
Choosing the best home protection plan depends on individual needs, budget, and the specific systems or appliances homeowners want to cover. Factors to consider include:
- Coverage Limits: Review coverage limits, exclusions, and the specific items covered by each plan.
- Service Call Fees: Compare service call fees among providers, as this cost is payable each time a technician is called.
- Customer Reviews: Check customer reviews and ratings to gauge the provider’s reliability, response time, and customer service quality.
- Customization: Look for providers offering customizable plans or add-ons tailored to specific needs.
- Contract Terms: Review the contract terms, including renewal policies, cancellation fees, and any waiting periods before coverage begins.
A home protection plan can offer peace of mind and financial protection against unexpected repair costs. It’s crucial to research and compare different providers to select the plan that best fits your home and budgetary requirements.
