Author: nhsca

Association Adopts Automatic Renewal Model to Protect Consumer Interests

(OLATHE, KS – November 8, 2011)

The National Home Service Contract Association has taken the lead to protect consumers from a lapse in coverage by drafting and promoting a model automatic renewal clause for the home service contract industry.

In an effort to create a balanced approach in favor of consumers, the NHSCA model allows consumers to choose automatic renewal to prevent a lapse in service, while also offering a simple process to cancel if their preference changes regarding automatic renewal.

Many customers prefer the convenience and uninterrupted service an automatic renewal provides. However, some states have erroneously suggested that all automatic renewals are bad for consumers. This is not the case. “The issue is how should an industry respond when a customer decides they did not intend to renew,” said Mark Celichowski, President of the NHSCA. ” We take an approach favoring the consumer.” The actual NHSCA model can be found in the NHSCA Resource Center.

“Automatic renewals on consumer contracts are a beneficial consumer choice, but so is the consumer’s right to cancel. Our model law was developed with input from state legislators as a balanced and fair approach to preserve consumer choice and prevent abuse,” Arthur J. Chartrand, NHSCA Counsel, said. “As an association, we wanted to take the lead and give states model language.”

The NHSCA is a nonprofit 501(c) (6) industry trade organization of member companies serving home service contract providers and consumer interests throughout the United States. To learn more about the NHSCA and to find answers to the most common questions regarding the purchase of home service contracts, please visit us at www.homeservicecontract.org

MEDIA CONTACT: Nancy Besa, Besa Public Relations • 816-674-4775 • Email

 

NHSCA and Angie’s List Offer Similar Advice, but NHSCA provides vetted and guaranteed contractors.

(Lenexa, KS)   Every year, millions of home service contracts (often referred to as “home warranties”) are purchased nationwide—a number growing dramatically every year as consumers seek home care solutions. While a growing number are marketed directly to consumers, the majority of contracts remain purchased as part of a real estate transaction and  subsequent renewal.

There is little doubt that these numbers reflect the fact that consumers are seeking security and financial protection.  Home service contracts provide the peace of mind that helps alleviate potential concerns of both home sellers and buyers during the resale transaction and for one year following the close of sale. In addition, renewal customers have continued protection from aging home systems, appliances and utilities. “Today’s consumer either lacks the skills, the knowledge or the desire to properly maintain their home and fix things that breakdown.  Many children simply lack the time to handle these needs for their parents,” according  to Art Chartrand Executive Director and Counsel of the National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA).

Internet based Angie’s List of Indianapolis often publishes reports advising consumers to be smart when buying a home service contract. We could not agree more. We support both a consumer’s need and right to understand all consumer contracts they purchase.  “Angie’s has appeared to grow more fond of the home service contract industry in recent years as her “list” and home service contract providers work hard to find the best local contractors who actually come in to your home,” added Chartrand.

Home service contracts will vary in the details of benefits provided. The market is very competitive and consumers have many choices when it comes to benefits, service and pricing. NHSCA member contracts are typically only a few pages and outline the complete terms and conditions of coverage. Consumers should compare contracts and consider the systems, appliances and utilities unique to their home property. This will
help consumers better understand their needs. If you live in a rural area, you may wish to consider adding well pump or septic tank protection. Do you have a pool or a spa? Do you wish to cover a freestanding appliance such as a refrigerator in your garage?

While the price of the product and optional coverage available is important, so are many other factors. Consumers should consider a number of questions in order to ensure they are making a wise purchase. Is the contract written in simple, easy to read and understandable language? Does the company clearly identify what services are not covered? Is the trade fee for each service call clearly disclosed? Is there an aggregate limit per system or appliance, per service call or per contract? Can a service call be placed 24/7 every day of the year? Is emergency service available when necessary? Is there a clear process that can be followed if the services rendered are not satisfactory?

It is also important for consumers to acknowledge that “everything” cannot be covered by a contract that typically costs about $500 a year. While contracts cover many breakdowns, there must be reasonable limitations. NHSCA members paid out well over one-half billion dollars to local contractors in 2010 to service customer’s homes. Even so, NHSCA members are always working to make contracts easier to read and understand as the industry strives to close any potential gap between available benefits and customer’s
expectations.

Consumers should also know that their home service contract provider has a solid reputation for serving its customers. References from real estate professionals and friends and a rating from the Better Business Bureau can be extremely helpful in the selection process. Either the state attorney general or insurance commissioner regulates all providers. (In Texas it is the Texas Real Estate Commission). Contact the appropriate state agency to inquire on a provider’s standing.

“If a consumer doesn’t take the time to perform their own ‘due diligence’, they may well end up as another ‘statistic’,” Gwen Gallagher, President of Old Republic Home Protection, said. “What is important to
consider is that out of the millions of contracts sold and million of service calls provided by the home service contract industry every year, only a very small fraction of consumers were not satisfied with either the coverage or service they received.

Some consumers may lodge a complaint on Internet sites such as Angie’s List where they
may often be viewed with disproportionate attention. The fact is the overwhelming
majority of consumers value their home warranty protection and remain quite happy with
both coverage and service.  Chartrand also noted that  “While Angie’s List may provide a “list” of local contractors for you to call, NHSCA home service contract providers actually vet these local contractors, call them for you, service or replace your broken appliance, pay them for you and then guaranty their work. Our members not only go the whole 9 yards, they go the full 100 yards.”

The National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA) is a non-profit 501(c) (6) industry trade organization of member companies serving home service contract providers and consumer interests throughout the United States. For more great industry, media and consumer information, visit  https://homeservicecontract.org or call 913-871-5600.

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The National Home Service Contract Association says to get all the facts before relying on various internet-based services that rank or rate home service contract providers.

(Lenexa, KS ) Some internet-based web sites have begun “rating” home service contract providers, but such can be biased or based on a limited and perspectives. The NHSCA cautions consumers to be aware of the inaccuracies of such ratings. The ratings are generally not subject to quality control or statistical analysis, and most of these services specifically state that they accept no responsibility for the quality or accuracy of their references or ratings. Having offered this caution, some of these sites are legitimate and provide some useful consumer information. 

It is important for consumers to be aware that many internet ratings are generally not based on the number of complaints as relative to the size of a company. For example, a company with three poor reviews could have 3,000 other very satisfied customers. Unfortunately, this type of data is rarely collected or shared, and therefore proves inadequate for the consumer to truly make an informed decision. Consumers may be better served by organizations such as the Better Business Bureau. Or just stay with a registered member of the NHSCA.

Some internet sites openly accept advertising dollars from the companies that they review. Organizations serving in the best interest of the consumer, will not accept advertising due to the conflict of interest it presents. Members of the NHSCA do not accept paid advertising from their independent network contractors. This practice allows them to maintain the highest level of standards and integrity. If a contractor does not meet performance standards, they are not retained. Consumer complaints are investigated and NHSCA raises concerns regarding reviews of home service contracts handled swiftly, assuring contract holder’s concerns are addressed effectively and efficiently.

Members of the NHSCA continue to be among the most highly recommended service providers by real estate professionals everywhere. Home service contract providers of the NHSCA are regulated in all fifty states under applicable consumer protection laws and are specifically licensed or registered in nearly half the states.

Both regional and national home service contract providers support large independent contracting firms as well as small family-owned, businesses in the communities they serve. They strive to provide consumers with the best local plumbers, electricians, appliance repair and HVAC contractors a community offers.  When a “preferred rated” contractor from an internet rating service does not perform, the consumer has little, if any, recourse. When a local contractor dispatched by an NHSCA home service contract provider fails to meet expectations, the provider typically works with the consumer to resolve their concerns.

The industry offers contracts to repair or replace most household appliances and systems that become inoperable due to normal wear and tear. Contracts generally cover dishwashers, ovens, disposers, electrical wiring and plumbing systems and most importantly, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems (HVAC). Many home service contract providers also offer a menu of optional items such as pool and spa equipment, well pumps and freestanding refrigerators, for an additional fee. Contracts are typically annual and renewable. Members of the NHSCA effectuate the actual diagnosis, repair or replacement through a network of independent contractors.

The National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA) is a non-profit 501(c) (6) industry trade organization of member companies serving home service contract providers and consumer interests throughout the United States. For more great industry, media and consumer information, visit  https://homeservicecontract.org or call 913-871-5600.

 

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Homes Service Contract Industry Reaffirms Your Need for a Real Estate Agent

(Lenexa, KS) Whether we are in a buyers market like the years following 2007, or in a sellers market as hit high gear  in 2016, real estate agents remain invaluable.

A side effect of this seesaw of  economic change is that today’s home buyers are more savvy and looking for added value with their purchase. However, they may not always know where that value can be found. That is why working with a knowledgeable and resourceful real estate agent is more important than ever before.

One way agents are protecting their clients and themselves is by educating homebuyers and sellers on the benefits of products such as home service contracts.

Home service contracts provide service, repair and even replacement of major home systems and appliances. At an average cost of $350 – $550 a year, these contracts typically cover items such as heating systems, interior plumbing, electrical systems, water heaters, dishwashers, and garbage disposals.

Home sellers, buyers, and real estate professionals benefit from the service provided by home service contracts. By including a home service contract as a condition of the sale, sellers instill an added sense of confidence to prospective home buyers because the buyer feels comfortable, knowing that covered systems and appliances will be repaired in the event of failure after closing. In addition, most home service contract companies offer seller’s coverage, which protects the seller in the event of a system or appliance failure during the listing and escrow period. Not only is the seller protected from additional cash outflow, if the home is under contract when a system or appliance fails, the service contract can help to keep the transaction flowing along smoothly.

Benefits to the buyer include budget protection from unexpected repair or replacement of home systems or appliances. This is especially important for properties that have sat on the market for long periods of time because, although a covered item may work at the close of escrow, one never knows when that system may fail. Even a change in household size can push a system or appliance to the breaking point sooner than expected. With many home buyers opting to take advantage of bargains that can be found with the glut of foreclosures currently on the market, home service contracts help take the risk out of the unknown. For first-time buyers with tight budgets, the unexpected replacement of a major system such as a furnace can be devastating; clearly the peace of mind a home service contract provides is valuable to financially strapped homebuyers.

A home service contract can bring peace of mind and referrals to the real estate agent. Real estate agents want to provide the best possible service experience to their clients because so much of their business growth is based on referrals. By offering a home service contract to their clients, the agent demonstrates their professionalism and concern for their client’s well being even after the sale. When the plan holder obtains the service they need from their home service contract provider, they will thank their agent for having the foresight to offer this valuable protection. Of course, when a client is satisfied with the agent’s service, they are much more likely to refer that agent to their friends and family who need real estate services.

Your own real estate agent is also knowledgeable about local markets, pricing, how to market your home effectively, and the many nuances of issues most are not such as PMI,  title insurance, fence line agreements and home inspections. “Personally, I think most anyone is just a sandwich short of a full picnic to avoid using a real estate agent when buying or selling a home,” says Art Chartrand, Executive Director and Counsel to the NHSCA. “A qualified and educated real estate agent doesn’t just show a house and point out shiny appliances.  They know insulation, roofing, taxes, school districts and crime, not to mention the value of granite, a good mortgage company and requirements of VA loans. Buying or selling a home without your own agent is pretty much like trying to fly a plane without taking a lesson.”

The NHSCA works diligently to promote excellence in the home service contract industry. By promoting education, fostering the improvement of business conditions, providing clear statutory definition and standards, and encouraging sound and ethical business practices; higher business standards, better business methods and cooperation within the industry continue to grow.

In our ongoing efforts to foster the relations and understanding between the home service contract industry and REALTORS®, we would like to hear from you. If you have a suggestion, area of concern or just would like more information regarding home service contracts, please contact us.

The National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA) is a non-profit 501(c) (6) industry trade organization of member companies serving home service contract providers and consumer interests throughout the United States. For more great industry, media and consumer information, visit  https://homeservicecontract.org or call 913-871-5600.

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Lack of use can cause costly repairs, not to mention denied  insurance claims.

(Lenexa, KS)   When home sits idle on the market, or vacant for most any reason, lack of proper maintenance or simply lack of use can cause costly repairs or replacements down the road. They may also result in lack of coverage under your insurance policy.

“When it comes to home appliances and whole house systems such as heating and cooling, wear and tear is not the only concern these days, just the lack of use can result in problems.   Cars, boats and motorcycles are no different,” advises Art Chartrand, Executive Director and Counsel to the National Home Service Contract Association. “These mechanical systems were meant to be used, not sit around. Even with a service contract and proper insurance, you still have to check on a vacant property, “  Chatrand advises. They just fail from non-use.  Valves freeze, gaskets dry out and gears rust form moisture.  P-traps in drains also dry out and can fill your house with methane sewer gasses.

 “Now, more than ever I am strongly encouraging my clients to require the seller provide a home service contract – especially if the home has been on the market for an extended amount of time,” advises Mitch Miller, REALTOR with Better Homes & Garden Real Estate.  “Contracts generally range from $350-$550 a year and can be renewed by the home buyer. It just makes good sense especially, as in the case of a foreclosure, there is no homeowner available to provide information. In addition, many companies provide seller coverage free of charge during the listing period, so it helps protect the seller as well.”

Home service contracts generally provide service, repair or replacement for items such as dishwashers, ovens, disposers, electrical and plumbing systems – and most importantly, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems (HVAC).  Many home service contract providers also offer a menu of optional items such as pool and spa equipment, well pumps, and free standing appliances such as refrigerators and clothing washers and dryers for an additional fee. Contracts do not cover pre-existing conditions, but will provide service, repair or replacement for failures arising due to normal wear and tear during the contract period.

“Our goal as an industry is to provide the best value for the consumer, “  said Billy Jensen, Fidelity National Home Warranty. He added  “In 2016, our members paid out over one billion dollars in wholesale value of claims.”

Aside from the need for a home service contact, homeowners need to be careful with their insurance coverage as well. While most policies cover you for routine absence due to vacation and cover otherwise furnished and utilized vacation homes that are unoccupied for great lengths of time, they often do not cover “vacant” homes. A vacant home may be described as one without any furnishings or utilities active.

One novice in Kansas recently bought a house and left that very day for Texas leaving their son living across town in charge. The son did nothing and the house was vacant for the next ten days. Upon returning to town, a water leak in the kitchen was discovered that caused major damage.  This is an insurable peril and cannot be covered by a service contract by law. The insurance carrier balked claiming the house was vacant and unattended.  Homeowners then haplessly tried to blame everyone form the seller, to the their agent to the tooth fairy to no avail.  The fact is they had the keys and just left the house vacant and things happen.  So make sure you check with your insurance carrier if your home will be vacant and unattended for any length of time.

The National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA) is a non-profit 501(c) (6) industry trade organization of member companies serving home service contract providers and consumer interests throughout the United States. For more great industry, media and consumer information, visit  https://homeservicecontract.org or call 913-871-5600.

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Complaints and Investigation of New York Company Elicit Response by National Home Service Contract Association

(OLATHE, KS – January 12, 2009)

OIn today’s economy it has never been more important for consumers to verify the credibility and dependability of any company in which they invest or purchase services. The National Home Service Contract Association strongly advises when purchasing a home service contract, consumers should do their homework, solicit references from seasoned real estate professionals and, most importantly, carefully read contracts before signing.

“Many consumers do their shopping for services via the Internet,” Billy Jensen, President of the NHSCA said. “While this method can be convenient and a time-saver, consumers must remember that anyone, including unscrupulous business people and scam artists, can host a well-designed and convincing Web-site. Consumers must do their research.” The National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA) is a non-profit 501(c) (6) industry trade organization of member companies serving home service contract providers and consumer interests throughout the United States.

This caution comes in light of recent consumer complaints and ensuing investigation against National Home Protection which according to its Web-site, is a home service warranty company based out of New York City. Published reports contend that NHP was not properly licensed in the states in which it operated including Texas where the state’s attorney general has filed action against the company. NHP currently has an “unsatisfactory record” nationally with the Better Business Bureau.* NHP is not a member of the NHSCA which has published a Code of Ethics that requires its members to act in conformity with all applicable laws and regulations.

“We certainly do not like to see any home service provider cast in a bad light, or worse, not fulfilling their contractual obligations,” advises Billy Jensen, President of the NHSCA. “One of our missions is to fully inform and educate consumers as to what contracts do and can provide. Unfounded expectations only later lead to dissatisfaction which is not in anyone’s best interest.”

Home service contracts provide a variety of benefits to service, repair or replace specifically listed household systems and appliances for a set, annual fee, but do not cover everything. Additionally, they do not cover insurable losses from events such as fire, windstorm, vandalism or theft. “If a dishwasher breaks down, the dishwasher repair is covered, but if a water leak form the dishwasher destroyed your ceiling, under state law, the homeowner must look to their insurance company for that loss,” Jensen clarified. For more questions and answers on home service contracts visit the NHSCA website page www.homeservicecontract.org

* The Atlanta Journal-Constitution; 1/11/2009

Consumers to Benefit Say Industry Leaders

(OLATHE, KS – July 10, 2008)

Until recently any contractor licensed in the state of Arizona could sell a homeowner a home service contract that covered items such as dishwashers, garbage disposals, and heating and cooling systems. It doesn’t sound like a problem until you realize that many of these smaller contractors weren’t financially stable or qualified to provide the service they were marketing.

That has now changed. Adopted and signed into law on May 8th, 2008, House Bill 2224 has eliminated a major exemption in the Arizona Service Company Act, further protecting consumers. The Act licenses and regulates all companies within the state offering home service contracts. For an annual fee, these contracts provide service, repair or replacement of major built-in household appliances and home systems that become inoperable due to normal ear and tear. Contracts generally cover items such dishwashers, ovens, disposers, wiring and plumbing systems and major systems such as heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC). The home service contract industry and Realtors™ often refer to these contracts as home warranties.

Unfortunately for consumers, when the Act was initially adopted, it provided an exemption for licensed contractors – plumbers, electricians, etc. This meant that these individuals could offer consumers contracts without being subject to regulation. “We believe that this legislation helps ensure consumers in the state of Arizona receive a quality product while maintaining integrity for our industry,” said Mark Lightfoot, president of the National Home Service Contract Association. “The NHSCA worked closely with the Arizona House, home service contractors, The Arizona Association of REALTORS® (AAR), former Insurance Commissioner David Childers, as well others, to enact this legislation,”

These previously exempt contractors will now have to comply with regulations required by the Act such as financial regulations, consumer disclosures and enforcement by the Insurance Director.

The National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA) is a non-profit 501(c) (6) industry trade organization of member companies serving home service contract providers and consumer interests throughout the United States. Visit online at www.homeservicecontract.org

When the market shift to sellers, buyers need to change their approach.

(Lenexa, KS)

When the sellers market turns hot, buyers need to be ready to pull the trigger.

We recently  interviewed Mitch Miller, an experienced REALTOR with Better Homes and Garden Real Estate. He indicates many home shoppers are often slow to fully comprehend when the market shifts. The laundry list of a demands for perks and accommodations that buyers get used to demanding can just can disappear overnight. 

He offers the following tips when a sellers market hits:

Don’t be too picky over painted walls and the front door. You can change all the painted colors and put your own mark on the home with a new front door fairly inexpensively.

If the house meets most of your needs, make a an offer. The perfect house will not come along and this one will go to another buyer tomorrow. 

Location, Location, Location. You can update the house or add on, but you cannot change the location. Never forget that.

Get pre-qualified for the loan you can afford. Nothing gets a sellers attention like a ready to go buyer.

Be flexible on closing date and possession. Sellers will prefer you as a buyer if you know their needs as well. Your agent can inform you.

The one thing you can still ask for is a home service contract. This is the one request you can make because it benefits and protects not only you, but the seller and their agent as well.

The National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA) is a non-profit 501(c) (6) industry trade organization of member companies serving home service contract providers and consumer interests throughout the United States. For more great industry, media and consumer information, visit  https://homeservicecontract.org or call 913-871-5600.

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