Home Warranties, Pros and Cons

Many of us purchase warranty contracts to avoid unexpected expenses. Paying a level monthly or annual payment is preferred by some over paying for a repair out right. Pros: 1.Level monthly payment. 2.Prequalified/Prescreened Contractors 3.Usually one number to call for service. Cons: 1.Premiums adjust over time. 2.Up front deductible (usually between $50.00 and $75.00) 3.Live person seldom picks up phone. Cust. will have to move through telephone prompts. 4.Contractors are required to complete jobs as cheaply as possible in order to maintain call volume status. Companies usually are given a preset amount to work with per call. If they exceed this amount their call volume will be severely cut,sometimes forcing companies to let employees go. 5. Parts used may be non-oem (cheaper parts). Short cuts may be taken to keep cost low. 6. Company may state unit failed due to customer neglect to avoid having to make an expensive repair. 7. Over several years most people pay more for their contracts than the actual repairs would have cost. These are just a few of the pros and cons. You may be able to add to the list.