Home Warranties – Are they worth it?

When the unexpected happens, being a homeowner can be stressful and expensive. With a warranty, problems become solutions.

What is a home warranty anyway?

Buying a home is a huge investment, and every homeowner knows the importance of protecting that investment. According to a 2024 study by the Consumer Federation of America, 12 in 13 homeowners in America have homeowners’ insurance. [1] That’s a good start, but only 4% of homeowners currently have a home warranty. [2] Homeowners insurance covers the structure of your home itself from catastrophic events like storm damage or fire, including some items inside. However, it may not cover every day wear and tear on your electrical, plumbing, heating systems, and appliances. Home warranties are not insurance, but they cover the repair or replacement of parts of key appliances and systems due to normal wear and tear, providing added peace of mind.

According to claims data collected by American Home Shield, homeowners were 25 times more likely to use their home warranties than they were homeowners’ insurance. Even the best home systems and appliances will inevitably break down, it’s simply a matter of when. And when breakdowns happen, it’s expensive: a single repair can cost hundreds or even thousands.

It’s a good day to have a bad appliance

Getting the right warranty for your home is critical. When choosing a home warranty, homeowners should consider their budget and the systems and appliances they count on every day. For example, it’s important to assess the current condition of your appliances and systems. If they’re older or have a history of issues, a home warranty may offer better protection. Additionally, think about any plans to upgrade or replace appliances soon, as this could affect the coverage you need. Finally, be aware of any pre-existing conditions or items that may not be covered by a particular home warranty, ensuring you choose one that meets your specific needs.

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Protecting what matters

That’s where AHS comes in, protecting their members’ budgets, time, and peace of mind. AHS home warranties start as low as just $1 a day, and homeowners can choose from three flexible plans to fit their budget and needs: ShieldSilver, ShieldGold and ShieldPlatinum. All plans cover most major systems in your home like HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems. ShieldGold steps up protection by covering the appliances you use every day — your refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, and more — along with washers and dryers. The highest tier plan, ShieldPlatinum adds repair of roof leaks, one free HVAC tune-up, and unlimited AC refrigerant.

AHS covers appliances regardless of age, with no required inspections or maintenance records, making covered breakdowns their problem, not yours.

And while we all want to do our best to keep our appliances and systems well-maintained, a home warranty covers you for the inevitable breakdowns. AHS understands that homeowners have busy schedules — it’s easy to take things in our home for granted. For that reason, a home warranty from American Home Shield deserves strong consideration.

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Coverage for homes, happiness for homeowners 

AHS has helped homeowners worry less and save more. After decades of providing a high level of service and value, they have more than 2 million members.  

A home warranty is much more than a piece of paper or a monthly bill. It’s reassurance that when the covered parts of systems and appliances in your home stop working, you can have peace of mind.  

Ready to protect your home and budget from unexpected repairs? Explore your home warranty plan options at ahs.com/plans and find the perfect coverage for your needs. Don’t wait for a breakdown– get peace of mind with American Home Shield.  

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See the plan agreement at ahs.com/contracts for coverage details, including service fees, limitations and exclusions. Coverage limits and charges for non-covered items may apply.

New Jersey Residents: The product being offered is a service contract and is separate and distinct from any product or service warranty which may be provided by the home builder or manufacturer.

Sources:

1. “According to a 2024 study by the Consumer Federation of America, 12 in 13 homeowners in America have homeowners’ insurance.” https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2024/03/13/no-homeowners-insurance-study/72933277007/

2. “only 4% of homeowners currently have a home warranty” https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/home-warranty/home-warranty-statistics/#:~:text=Home%20warranties%20offer%20a%20safety,average%20of%2011%20days%20faster.

Contributors
  • Heather Quinn Author