Category: News

NHSCA To Host National Home Warranty Conference

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The National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA) announced today that it will convene its second annual symposium on June 6th – 8th with the theme of “getting your business back on track”.

After three years of COVID, the industry has encountered labor shortages, supply change disruption and evolving consumer demand. This year’s symposium will be held at Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City, Utah. 

Featured speakers will include executives from NHSCA member companies as well as industry experts in building, real estate, technology and of the broader home services industry.

Following up on last year’s inaugural conference, the association has seen a growing demand for its event.  Members and attendees appreciated the single-track conference and the ability to interact with company CEO’s and other key players in the industry.  If you work in the home services industry this is an important conference to attend.  To register for the event please visit homewarrantyconference.com.

Some of the topics for this year will focus on real estate trends, labor issues, new mandated HVAC regulations and other topics important to stakeholders in the industry.

At this conference the NHSCA will convene the leading providers, suppliers, technology firms and affiliates in the home services industry. The goal is to create synergies between these organizations to serve the needs and demands of homeowners to maintain safe and healthy homes.

Homes have become increasingly reliant upon technology and systems that homeowners can no longer maintain or support on their own. “Timely and efficient expert services to keep homes operating efficiently are in demand,” noted NHSCA President Andy Hand, SVP of First American Home Warranty. “Smart systems, monitored equipment, along with WIFI enabled systems and appliances require additional expertise. The needs of these home system and appliances exceed the ability of the average homeowner to service or repair them. Our industry must meet that need and even exceed it by employing the latest technologies to diagnose and repair these critical systems. Hand’s comments reflected the major theme of the conference to partner with technology firms to focus on trends, connected homes and the overall customer “home experience.” 

There will be a welcome reception on Tuesday June 6th and the main conference on June 7th and 8th.  The association is providing an early bird registration of just $695 which will be available until May 1, 2023.  After that registration will be $895. Special rates are available at the Grand American Hotel. Additionally, there is space in the vendor expo for those servicing the industry and a limited number of sponsorship opportunities still remain.

The association welcomes all attendees and looks forward to the gathering in Salt Lake City.

About the NHSCA
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 and consumer information, visit https://homeservicecontract.org.

NHSCA Hosts First National Home Warranty Conference

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June 9-10 marked the first ever convocation of the most significant leaders and
stakeholders in the home warranty industry in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

The home warranty industry convened the leading providers, suppliers, technology firms
and affiliates in the home services industries in Santa Fe this past month. The goal was
to create a new synergy to better serve the needs and demands of homeowners to
maintain functional, safe and healthy homes.

Homes have become increasingly reliant upon technology and systems that consumers
and their families can no longer maintain or support. “Timely and efficient expert
services to keep homes operating efficiently are in huge demand,” noted NHSCA
President Andy Hand and SVP of First American Home Warranty. “Smart systems,
computer driven and internet monitored HVAC systems along with WIFI enabled
appliances from refrigerators and ranges to door openers require expertise and
monitoring. Most of the needs exceed the ability of the average homeowner to service
or repair them. Our industry has to meet that need and even exceed it by employing the
latest technologies to diagnose, prevent and repair them. Timely and effective remote
repair is an emerging development to meet homeowner’s needs.” Hand’s comments
reflected the major theme of the conference to partner with technology firms to focus on
trends, connected homes and the overall customer “home experience.”

Ken Gear, CEO of Leading Builders of America provided the keynote on the future of
new home construction and trends. John Gallante, CEO of AE Ventures outlined the
service and support need for a “connected home”. David Roybal of Keller Williams
provided provocative and insightful commentary on what REALTORS® are looking for in
home service fulfillment.

This event marked the first convocation of the NHSCA’s expanded membership and
recognition of the NHSCA accreditation program. “Accreditation by the NHSCA is a big
deal in the home warranty space,” observed Jim Mullery, NHSCA Secretary/Treasurer
and President of Old Republic Home Protection. “The industry and regulators have
embraced it as a new step toward better standards and consumer protection.
Membership in the NHSCA is the first step toward industry responsibility to the public,
while accreditation represents accomplishment and commitment.”

NHSCA Affiliate members such as Home X, Encompass, National Service Alliance,
Vivint, Reliable Parts, Ironwood Warranty Group, Service Experts and others made
major contributions toward the two-day conference which followed the annual NHSCA
membership meeting. Jacqui Adams Crockett, NHSCA Vice-President and VP at 2-10
Home Buyers Warranty emphasized that “This conference was designed to hear from
our contractors, partner with them to make home service contracts easier to utilize,
assist with the current labor shortage, and overall, to be more customer centric.”
“The NHSCA welcomes new members and saw great interest in others joining the
organization,” observed NHSCA founder and counsel Art Chartrand. “It is a great
opportunity for the NHSCA to broaden our membership to bring additional voices in the
industry to the conversation. We were thrilled to have major cooperation and support
from the former Service Contract Industry Council (SCIC) which represents the
automobile and retail goods sectors as some of our legislative issues overlap.”
Chartrand concluded that “Pierce Haley of Boston’s Serlin Haley as our new Executive
Director is well poised to lead this entire group into the future.”
Be sure to look for the NHSCA logo when choosing a home service contract (warranty)
provider. See www.EZPZhome.org for a list of member companies.

About the NHSCA
The National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA) is a non-profit 50(c) (6)
industry trade organization of member companies serving home service contract
providers and consumer interests throughout the United States. For more great
industry and consumer information, visit https://homeservicecontract.org.

NHSCA Takes Lead in Home Warranty Industry

Posted on by Editor

Olathe, KS, July 14, 2021
In addition to electing new officers and appointing a new Executive, [See RELATED RELEASE ON NHSCA NEW LEADERSHIP] The National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA) made several historic decisions at its national meeting in Boothbay Harbor, Maine last month which positively impact the future of the home warranty industry.

The NHSCA voted to restructure its general membership to include new and lesser-known companies, including start-ups. “The concept is to foster newer companies to run their business among the leaders in the industry and to mentor them. While we all are competitors, serving our customers comes first,” noted newly elected NHSCA President Andy Hand of First American Home Warranty of Santa Rosa, California.

A new class of industry stakeholders in hardware, software, appliances, supply chains and technology was formally adopted. “NHSCA Affiliate Members” were established and currently led by Randy Whitehead of National Service Alliance (NSA). “This is exciting for all of us. We are bringing together the best in this industry to propel it forward. Providers benefit along with the new affiliates, but the real winners are consumers,” boasted Whitehead. “Education and growth including a possible National Symposium on Home Warranty are a start. Homeowners need what we can deliver.”

Hand added “We are truly encouraged about our new NHSCA Affiliates. These companies are key stakeholders in our industry and bring more innovation and technology to enhance the total customer experience.”

Jacqui Crockett, re-elected NHSCA Vice President led a forward thinking and innovative planning session with the new NHSCA Affiliates the day after the Board acted. “The founding leaders of the NHSCA left us a great legacy on which to build a future that looks different than it did even just 10 years ago. Builders, Realtors, contractors and most importantly homeowners need us to disrupt the way we’ve always done things to better serve their needs in this constantly changing market. From consumer expectations around their service experience, to increasingly rigorous federal and state safety standards for home systems, to the highly tech-enabled appliances in today’s homes, business as usual will not suffice. It’s time to change and we believe this expanding and diverse NHSCA is the group to make that happen.”

Michael Werner, Founder and CEO of HomeX (www.HomeX.com) and one of the new NHSCA Affiliates said “Werner Ladder, my family’s business, put ladders in most homes across America.  Home warranties are equally important, and every home should also have one, given the complexities and challenges of maintaining today’s home systems and appliances.

The NHSCA also adopted updated standards for data collection to better track industry trends and growth. Gwen Gallagher, President of Old Republic Home Protection has been a leader among leaders in the industry for decades. “Just being a big name on television does not prove your value to consumers. The responsible members of our industry are doing the hard work to protect consumers and advance the home warranty industry. Good data collection and NHSCA Accreditation are important in this effort. We are asking consumers, REALTORS and regulators to embrace us in this process.”

About the NHSCA

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 and consumer information, visit http://homeservicecontract.org.

For more information contact Joy L Moore, NHSCA Operations Manager Email: [email protected] or call 913-871-5600.

NHSCA Announces New Leadership

Posted on by Editor

Olathe, KS, July 1, 2021

The National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA) made several historic and pivotal decisions which will positively impact the future of the home warranty industry at its national meeting in Boothbay Harbor, Maine. (SEE RELATED RELEASE: “NHSCA Assumes Top Role in Home Warranty Industry.”]

Andy Hand of First American Home Warranty of Santa Rosa, California was elected President; Jacqui Crockett of 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty of Aurora, Colorado elected Vice-President; and Jim Mullery of Old Republic Home Protection of San Ramon, California was elected Secretary/Treasurer.

The meeting resulted in the hiring Pierce Haley of the national firm of Serlin Haley as the NHSCA Executive Vice President and General Counsel as a transition from Art Chartrand, Chartrand Legal Management, Inc.  (CLM, Inc) who formed and led the organization since its inception. “It’s been very rewarding to work with so many fine people in the NHSCA. The home services industry is on the right trajectory. Consumers need the services the members deliver,” said Chartrand. Chartrand will remain Of Counsel to the NHSCA for two years while he focuses on his family’s charitable foundation and the building of the “The Giving Gallery” to serve the Kansas City area. Joy Moore of CLM will remain to handle the management transition to Serlin Haley over the next two years to ensure a smooth transfer.

Hand and Crockett both outlined a promising future for the NHSCA that includes accreditation and high standards for member companies. “Chartrand will be missed, but we have bright and new talent ready to lead.  Companies that choose to operate outside state regulation need to be helped and work with the NHSCA toward a better experience” observed Hand.  “Customer centric innovation, technology, and service are the roadway of the future. We invite home warranty companies of all types join us in this journey,” added Crockett.

Be sure to look for the NHSCA logo when choosing a home service contract (warranty) provider.  See www.homeservicecontract.org for a list of member companies.

About the NHSCA

The National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA) is a non-profit 50(c) (6) industry trade organization of member companies serving home service contract providers and consumer interests throughout the United States.  For more great industry and consumer information, visit http://homeservicecontract.org.

 

For more information contact Joy L Moore, NHSCA Operations Manager Email: [email protected] or call 913-871-5600.

NHSCA Announces National Meeting and New Officers

Posted on by Editor

Lenexa, KS, Feb. 10, 2021

Christopher Wasson, NHSCA President departed his position with Old Republic Home Protection in late 2020 resulting in a transition of top NHSCA leadership.  A new slate of officers was unanimously voted in. Rodney Martin, Chief Executive Officer of America’s Preferred Home Warranty of Jackson, Michigan moved up to President and Jacqui Crocket VP of Business, Digital Transformation at 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty of Denver, Colorado assumed the Vice President slot. Any Hand, SVP Marketing and Strategy with First American Home Protection of San Ramon was elected Secretary/Treasurer.

Wasson’s departure was unexpected, however, “We are prepared for this with our officers serving two-year terms. We always have new officers ready and up to speed to take over,” said Art Chartrand the association Executive VP and General Counsel. “We fully expect Wasson to reappear in the home warranty provider ranks and possibly serve again in the near future.”

 

The NHSCA also took a bold move and determined to hold its 2021 annual board meeting in-person this summer. As was universally the case, the 2020 June meeting was relegated to a Zoom meeting. “We realize some government restrictions could yet alter our plans, but after polling the members, we found most ready, willing and able to attend” reported Joy Moore, NHSCA Operations Manager. Moore added that the meeting locale played a role noting that Boothbay Harbor Maine is a spacious and safe environment, and the hotel is well prepared as the country moves into a post Covid world.

 

In Boothbay, NHSCA will be dealing with its recent growth of membership and planning for a National Symposium on Home Warranty. “A new membership structure is being contemplated with a smaller and more efficient board size. We are trying to manage our growth while building a larger tent for all stakeholders in the home service contract industry to participate. An affiliate membership for our industry partners, many of whom currently serve on our Advisory Council, is on the table,” reported Martin as the NHSCA President. “As we move into a new normal of operations, we have been discussing and planning for the future for our industry to better serve the consuming public. It’s all a good thing,” added Martin.

 

Be sure to look for the NHSCA logo when choosing a home service contract (warranty) provider.  See www.homeservicecontract.org for a list of member companies.

 

About the NHSCA

The National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA) is a non-profit 50(c) (6) industry trade organization of member companies serving home service contract providers and consumer interests throughout the United States.  For more great industry and consumer information, visit https://homeservicecontract.org.

 

For more information contact Joy L Moore, NHSCA Operations Manager Email: [email protected] or call 913-871-5600.

Values and Benefits of NHSCA to Home Warranty Buyers

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Mr. Arthur Chartrand, Exec. Director and Counsel at NHSCA, the National Home Service Contract Association, discusses with HomeWarrantyReviews.com the home warranty industry and how it has risen to the challenges of COVID-19. Learn how homeowners should take NHSCA membership into consideration when shortlisting a home warranty company.

Read the Complete article on HomeWarrantyReviews.com

NHSCA Announces Accreditation Program for Home Service Contract Providers

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Sept, 2019 – Lorna Mello, President of the NHSCA announced this month “The NHSCA is taking a major leap forward with its accreditation program.  Regulators and Legislators have asked the NHSCA to develop a formal program of compliance and standards within the home warranty industry, and we responded.”  On September 5, the NHSCA Board of Directors adopted the program for implementation immediately.

“The new NHSCA accreditation essentially becomes the “good housekeeping” seal of approval for serious and responsible home warranty providers” reports Richard Adams, NHSCA Vice-President and principal of National Home Guaranteed of Utah. Adams added “My company has already been through the process and among the first to be accredited. I am proud of that.”

Art Chartrand, Executive Director and Counsel for the NHSCA reports the program is designed to benefit not only providers, but also to assure the consuming public and regulators as well.  “The home service contract industry is regulated in every state by various agencies, but they cannot do all the review and monitoring. They have to rely upon the legitimate industry to help police itself.”   Chartrand says the program is a positive thing and even the best of companies will benefit from a top to bottom review of laws, regulations, contracts and compliance.

“The award of the NHSCA accreditation logo demonstrates to consumers and the industry our membership’s commitment to proper regulation and compliance” says John Walsh, General Counsel for NHSCA member Cross Country Home Services, Inc. based in Florida.  Walsh, also the NHSCA Treasurer/Secretary added “NHSCA membership is what REALTORs look for when recommending a home warranty provider. This program is just another step forward to assure regulators and consumers we take our responsibility seriously to meet their expectations.”

Current NHSCA member companies have until May 1, 2020 to complete the audit and receive accreditation. The first phase of accreditation is voluntary and good for five years. For new applicants to the NHSCA,  the audit and accreditation will become mandatory including an on-site stand down review of operations.

About the NHSCA

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 and consumer information, visit https://homeservicecontract.org.

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Home Care Made EZPZ

Posted on by Editor

Homes need constant care and home service contract makes budgeting “EZPZ.” by: Arthur J. Chartrand*

Buying a home can be a challenging process but selecting a home service contract shouldn’t be. Thankfully the National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA) has made the process easy. As a matter of fact, they have made it “EZPZ” for you. (Easy Peasy, if you are not into the acronym thing.)

Homebuyers need only look for the NHSCA logo which is granted to member companies that agree to adhere to sound and ethical business practices. No company can buy an NHSCA logo¾they have to earn it. Companies are vetted by peer review which means that even their toughest competitors have to approve of them. Onsite office audits and visits to member offices by NHSCA counsel are common. Adhering to a code of ethics, compliance with all state laws and regulations and fair advertising practices are just a few of the requirements.

We tend to trust when an electrical appliance is “UL certified” or a household product gets the “Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval.” The NHSCA is the seal of approval for the home service contract industry (often referred to in real estate circles as a “home warranty”).

Media often cover stories about consumers being ripped off by an unscrupulous financial adviser, home contractor or auto mechanic.  Is everyone in these professions bad?  Clearly not. The consumer simply lacks a knowledgeable reference or takes the wrong approach. Asking for input from a trusted neighbor or a real estate agent is also a good idea. Caution should be utilized when using online sources where marketing and advertising dollars can impact ratings.

The same goes for Google searches. Trusting a company just because they pop up as the number one ad sponsor does not mean they are the best choice.  Unfortunately, some companies spend millions of dollars on meta data and search engine optimization rather than focusing on good service.  If you research Google to a greater degree you will note government sanctions against home warranty companies with names like “select,” “secure” or “choice” in them.  Educate yourself and read the full story.

The NHSCA represents the highest standard in home service contract protection and works to promote the same throughout the industry. There are a few very good companies who are not yet members of the NHSCA. Accordingly, the NHSCA is constantly reviewing companies and targeting the finest, legitimate and responsible companies for membership.

The NHSCA takes fraud seriously. It continually monitors the industry and works cooperatively with government officials as well as consumers in a robust effort to combat fraud.  To see its most recent effort simply visit www.homeservicecontract.org  Marginal providers just won’t come near the NHSCA.

NHSCA members serve nearly five million households and pay out nearly two billion dollars in service claims every year. If a consumer ever has an issue with a service by an NHSCA member, the NHSCA website provides an avenue of communication direct to the top of its member companies.

So look for the NHSCA logo when picking a home warranty company. Or just think  “EZPZ.” In fact, if you forget NHSCA or www.homeservicecontract.org, just remember “EZPZ.” Go to EZPZhome.organd you will find the most qualified and reliable providers in the industry. If that isn’t easy enough, visit EZPZhome.org.  How EZ is that?

The NHSCA is an IRS registered 501 (c)(6) trade group of highly selected and premier providers of home service (warranty) contracts. The NHSCA is based in the heart of Americaat 10000 Marshal Drive, Lenexa, KS 66215 with members serving consumers throughout the United States.

For more information or an interview, contact:
Joy L Moore, Chief of Staff NHSCA
10000 Marshal Drive
Lenexa, KS 66215
Ph: 913.871.5600 FAX: Use Email
[email protected]

* Arthur J. Chartrand is an attorney, consumer rights advocate, former national radio talk show host and counsel to the National Home Service Contract Association

Email him at: [email protected]

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sales of Home Warranties Soar as Industry Covers Billions of Dollars in Appliances & Systems

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The National Home Service Contract Association also reports an increase in consumer knowledge, value & popularity of home service contracts

Lenexa, Kan. –  Sept., 2016  The National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA), a non-profit 501(c) (6) industry trade organization comprised of member companies representing home service contract providers and consumer interests throughout the United States, announces today that its members sold more than 4 million home service contracts (often referred to as home warranties) in 2015, an 8-percent growth from 2014.

“The NHSCA is an advocate for the home service contract industry and works diligently to further educate consumers about the value that home service contracts deliver,” said Mike Bartosch, president of the NHSCA. “The wholesale value of these contracts easily exceeds $1 billion in savings to consumers annually.”

The home service contract industry provides service, repair or replacement of major household systems and appliances that fail due to normal wear and use. Contracts generally cover items such as dishwashers, ovens, cooktops, garbage disposals, microwave ovens and water heaters; electrical, plumbing and heating systems; as well as ventilation and air conditioning systems (HVAC).

“If a system or appliance stops working, contact your home service contract provider. If a home system or appliance is damaged by a falling tree, catches fire or is subject to vandalism, then contact your insurance agent,” said Bartosch. “Home service contracts and homeowners’ insurance policies are mutually exclusive products in all 50 states. NHSCA members are not insurers and do not sell an insurance product. Further, insurance products don’t cover service, repairs or replacement to home systems and appliances required as a result of normal wear and use.”

The majority of home service contracts are offered through real estate professionals to the sellers and buyers of homes during the resale process. However, direct sales to consumers now account for approximately one-third of all home service contract sales. As with the sale of any warranty contract, buyers should read and understand the coverage afforded, as well as the limitations to coverage. Buyers should not rely solely on others to explain the coverage, as coverage may be inaccurately represented, which can cause frustration later.

While national figures continue to grow, home service contract market penetration differs from state to state. Various sources cite that in California, where the industry began in 1971, more than 90 percent of all home sales include a home service contract.

“Clearly these most recent figures show that consumers trust our members to take care of appliances and systems in their homes,” said Arthur J. Chartrand, chief executive and counsel of the NHSCA. “The members of the NHSCA represent a collective commitment to education, service quality and coverage. These sales figures posted by our member companies prove that our educational efforts are working and consumers are listening. As a result, the industry is positioned for an even stronger finish in 2016.”

Formed in 2004, the NHSCA exists to conduct research and promote education, publications and other methods that improve consumers’ understanding of home service contracts. Its mission is also to distinguish the home service contract industry from insurance, retail warranty and extended warranty and the automobile dealer service business. It also informs members of changes in laws and practices as well as pending legislation that affects the home service contract market nationwide as well as sponsors meetings and educational programs.

In addition to the protecting consumers on the wear and use of a home’s core appliances and systems, many home service contract providers also offer optional items such as swimming pool or spa equipment and other free-standing appliances such as kitchen refrigerators or washers and dryers for an additional fee. Contract terms may be annual and renewable, but many are now offered on monthly terms.

“All parties in a real estate transaction benefit from a home service contract,” said Bartosch. “For real estate agents, the benefits of home service contracts include risk management after the close of the sale, the ability to focus on repeat or referral business, hassle-free home repairs for clients and increased customer satisfaction as both buyers and sellers view home service contracts as a benefit and value the protection they offer.”

Although the term “home warranty” has been used historically throughout the industry, the more correct term is “home service contract.” Home warranty is a descriptive term coined because the home service contract industry evolved by providing contracts purchased by home sellers for home buyers as a form of “warranty” to protect the new buyer should a mechanical problem develop during the first year of ownership.

“Working to improve the overall consumer interface and experience with our providers and local contractors has been a top priority of the NHSCA,” said Chartrand. “Home warranty is a generic term and should not be confused with a new home’s ‘builder warranty’ or ‘extended warranties’ for new consumer goods.”

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. Members of the NHSCA are reputable, licensed home service contract providers in good standing, domiciled in various states across the nation. All members agree to adhere to a code of ethics, which promotes sound and ethical business practices. A current list of member firms are listed on the NHSCA website. For more information, please visit www.homeservicecontract.org or follow the NHSCA on Twitter @coveryourhome.

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The Home Warranty Industry: Bringing Innovation to the Way Homeowners Manage the Care of Their Homes

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From Homewarrantyreviews.com – with permission  (2016).  This is a guest post by Arthur J. Chartrand, Counsel, and Administrator for the National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA) – from Homewarrantyreviews.com

Read original article in full at  homewarrantyreviews.com.

Homewarrantyreviews.com (2016)   As homeowners, you have to live under a rock these days not to have certain lifetime or lifestyle plans in place.  In today’s world, there are many versions of service and warranty plans for life, health, your personal goods and your home. Without them, most would say you are way behind and perhaps even in danger, both financially and physically.

How Can a Home Warranty (Service) Contract Help You?

If you are a homeowner and have experienced the syndrome of costly repairs to any of your home appliances, you would be wise to consider the benefits versus costs of a home warranty contract. Due to the many economic challenges faced by families, many are remaining in their homes for a longer period of time.  This results in aging appliances and the potential for costly repairs. A home warranty (service contract) with a quality member of the National Home Service Contract Association is the solution for homeowners. Before we delve further into the benefits of a home warranty contract, consider how you, the homeowner, currently utilize other products to protect yourself, your lifestyle and your family.

Cases in Point for Homeowners:
Personal Health Plan: This would include exercise and proper diet. Always a complex plan that is hard to apply, yet unwise to ignore.

Health Insurance Plan: Without question, a pressing need for everyone. Health insurance is the main way we handle and budget the care or protection against catastrophe and is increasingly difficult to afford.

Life Insurance Plan:  Often hard to appreciate, hard to buy, and hard to afford. And this is the real fun part, you have to die and others get the benefits.

Long Term Care Plan:
Few plan for it effectively and it is very expensive.

Homeowners Insurance and Automobile Insurance Plan:
These plans are usually either required by lenders or law. With that being said, no one enjoys using them.  While critical, you may never actually need or use them in your lifetime.

Maybe you have a lawn care plan, automobile maintenance plan, pest control program or a home cleaning service? These are nice luxuries for those who can afford it. But what plan is in place for the biggest investment you own that will provide assurance and peace of mind? And, is something you can enjoy now and is affordable?

As a child, I spent countless hours with my Dad learning how to put a fan blower motor on a furnace. I learned what a “heat and limit switch” looked like, what it did and even how to replace one. Dad and I even put a water valve in our old dishwasher once.  Here is the reality. I never taught my son to do these things. My daughter was no more interested than my sisters were in such mundane household mechanics. In today’s world, furnaces and most other major household systems are just too complex to service or repair for even the advanced homeowner.  If a dishwasher breaks, economics often say replacing is a better option.  And let’s be clear, if you need a new gas water heater, don’t even think about letting your son in law give it a try. With all the technology and environmental requirements associated with these appliances, it is far too dangerous for anyone but a professional.

Today, families work long hours and spouses often travel frequently and are not around to work on air conditioner compressors that go bad, or septic tanks that back up into the master bedroom. The reality is most individuals wait until something breaks to call for assistance with many household systems and appliances from glass range tops to water softeners. Back in the day, even when my wonder Dad gave up, we had a family plumber. We also had a family electrician. When a swift kick did not work on the refrigerator or TV (believe it or not these were actual and often effective remedies that often worked in the pre-1980 world), Dad just called my uncle or the guy next door. If old Uncle Hubert does volunteer, remind him that duct tape and bailing wire aren’t very effective these days on your computer chip controlled thermostat.

Today, very few individuals have a trusted family plumber or electrician. Dealing with a broken valve, a cracked heat exchanger, a blown compressor, a leaking gas water heater or a jammed up shower valve is pretty much beyond the skill of today’s homeowner. Homeowners are forced to ask neighbors, post a plea on Facebook or pay some Internet site to suggest a local contractor. None come with anything close to a guaranty. And even if you find a reputable repair person, the cost can quickly escalate beyond your expectations.

The Homeowners’ Solution: A Home Warranty (Service) Contract
A home warranty or service contract manages your home service needs, repairs and replacement of your major household appliances and systems.  By investing about $550 a year in a home warranty, you have an 800 number, answered 24/7. A local service and repair professional will be dispatched to address your needs.  You no longer need a family plumber or a brother in law masquerading as an uncertified electrician. You can avoid a paid referral service to some lady who recommends cake makers and photographers along with plumbers she does not guaranty. Most homes average nearly two service calls a year. A home service contract handles not only what you don’t have time for, but nearly always, what you are unqualified to handle. And don’t forget, members of the NHSCA only utilize quality minded, screened local contractors in your area and stand behind their work.

Comprehensive home warranties cover a wide array of household systems and appliances and are becoming standard on any home sale transaction. However, many providers now offer directly to consumer contracts on your home today. Better yet, providers are increasingly offering you the ability to pick the appliances and systems most important to you as you build and price your own contract. It is just one more way the home warranty industry is bringing innovation to you.

A home warranty contract with a quality member of the National Home Service Contract Association is changing the way Americans live and relax. It is a necessary lifestyle program that you will use, and will enjoy in your lifetime.

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 and consumer information, including short helpful videos, visit  https://homeservicecontract.org or call 913-871-5600.

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