Have you been considering buying a house? Or have you already bought one? If either one of the question’s answer is yes, then another important aspect for you to consider is the mounting costs of repairs and replacement of appliances, systems, and the like. To help you cover these costs, you could also think about purchasing a home warranty plan.
Unlike homeowners insurance that covers costs related to the physical structure of your home, a home warranty plan will help cover unscheduled costs that might arise within the home, courtesy of appliances and electrical items.
When considering what type of home warranty you must buy, look into factors like the diversity of coverage (different appliances), the limit on the coverage, how easily you can file claims, and how quickly these companies respond to your claims. Keeping these factors in mind, let’s take a look at four home warranties that are definitely worth your attention in this matter.
AFC Home Club
America’s First Choice (AFC) Home Club is among the best home warranties because it offers a very reasonable annual plan (comes up to roughly $50 per month) that enhances its widespread reputation and fine customer service. The company’s response time to grievances and complaints is usually 48 hours. AFC also offers a good choice of plans and add-ons to pick. Customers can also choose their technician and don’t need any permission from the company to do so. Even purchase of household appliances is discounted if done through AFC at partner stores. AFC is available in all the states but not in California and Hawaii.
American Home Shield
American Home Shield has been around for longer than 50 years and can be considered a veteran in the world of home warranties. It is available in all the states except Alaska, and it offers three plans with a fair number of add-ons too. In addition to its three very comprehensive plans, it also offers coverage for real estate and electronics. What’s enticing is that these options are pretty low cost and have the stamp of American Home Shield. The company has paid out the highest number of service requests in the industry.
American Residential Warranty
If pricing is on your mind, then this should be your top choice among home warranties. It starts with a modest $55 service fee and provides low-cost plans too. Some users may find its feature of being able to choose your own technician exciting. However, prior permission is needed from the company before you hire him/her. There are also plenty of add-ons available. So, you have the right mix of cost and coverage here. The company also offers services for emergency requests. For other requests, it promises a turnaround time of fewer than 24 hours.
Cinch Home Services
Cinch has just about something for everyone. This is a budget-friendly option for those who want a lot of coverage and good customer service. The company has three tiers in terms of service fees, unlike its competitors, who mostly only have two. Another advantage is that the company provides coverage for preexisting conditions on appliances. Be it corrosion or rust, Cinch will cover it for you. Moreover, the company has something called a 180-day workmanship guarantee. Within this period, if you notice that something’s amiss despite being repaired, you can do it all over again at no additional cost. Cinch also has fantastic response times – less than 24 hours. It has a chat facility and has a call center that operates 24/7. Though the company offers three levels of service fees, some users might find it pricey. Plus, it does not operate in Alaska and Hawaii.
