For homeowners, protecting your home's value goes beyond homeowner's insurance, which only covers major damages and accidents. Protecting your home also means purchasing a home warranty that will cover repair and replacement of major appliances, like your oven, and major home systems, like your heating system.
While no one home warranty fits every need, follow these pro tips and you'll make the right choice for you.
#1 Check Reviews & Customer Ratings
Don't purchase a warranty without looking at reviews and ratings of the home warranty provider. It's also important to check with your local Better Business Bureau (BBB) to confirm that the provider is BBB accredited and whether or not they have a high number of complaints.
#2 Look for the company's state licensing
Do a quick search to make sure the company is fully licensed in your state.
Also make sure that the company you're considering works in your state and has a network of technicians where you live.
Choice Home Warranty is the leading home warranty provider in the US when it comes to nationwide availability with the largest network of technicians and repairmen (except for CA & WA).
#3 List what you want covered
You and your home have unique needs. To make sure you're getting what you need, write down what you want covered. For example, not all home warranty providers include roof repairs, garage door replacements or hot tub repairs. Are these things you need covered?
For customizing your policy, American Home Shield offers the most flexibility.
Unlike many companies which offer only one plan for appliances and another plan for systems, American Home Shield plans cover combinations of appliances and systems.
#4 Know the policy's conditions and exemptions
Before you buy a home warranty, read the fine print. Be certain you know what your policy's monetary cap is and which exemptions might apply.
When it comes to the clearest policy terms, Select Home Warranty is a top favorite. Their policies are clear-cut and hassle-free. You know from the get-go exactly what's covered and what's not.
Want to compare more options? Check out a break-down of the top home warranty providers this summer here.
