**Home Warranty Cost: Is Select Home Warranty Worth It in 2024?**

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Is your home whispering tales of appliance woes and system stutters? Discover how Select Home Warranty might be the shield you need against the unexpected.

Let’s face it, the symphony of modern life often includes the discordant clang of a failing washing machine or the chilling silence of a defunct air conditioner. In a world where appliances seem to have a shorter lifespan than ever, and where even routine maintenance can feel like a financial tightrope walk, homeowners are increasingly seeking a safety net. Enter the home warranty – a promise of protection, a beacon of hope in the turbulent seas of homeownership.

Among the myriad of companies vying for your attention, Select Home Warranty (SHW) emerges as a prominent contender. Established in 2012 and headquartered in New Jersey, SHW offers a range of plans designed to cater to diverse needs and budgets. But does it live up to the hype? Does it truly offer peace of mind, or is it just another expensive piece of paper gathering dust in your drawer?

Unveiling the Shield: Select Home Warranty’s Offerings

SHW presents a straightforward approach to home warranties, offering three distinct plans: Bronze Care, Gold Care, and Platinum Care. Think of them as tiers of protection, each designed for a specific level of coverage.

Bronze Care: The Appliance Guardian

This plan is the entry-level option, ideal for homeowners who primarily want to safeguard their essential appliances. It’s like having a loyal bodyguard for your refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, and other household staples. If these trusty servants decide to stage a revolt, Bronze Care aims to step in and cover the costs of repair or replacement.

Gold Care: The Systems Sentinel

If your primary concern lies with the vital systems that keep your home humming – your HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems – then Gold Care might be your perfect match. This plan acts as a vigilant sentinel, standing guard over the infrastructure that makes your home livable.

Platinum Care: The Comprehensive Citadel

For those who crave the ultimate protection, the Platinum Care plan combines the coverage of both Bronze and Gold, creating a comprehensive citadel around your home. It’s the most expensive option, but it provides the broadest scope of protection, ensuring that both your appliances and systems are shielded from unexpected breakdowns.

Beyond the Basics: Optional Add-Ons

Like a master strategist bolstering their defenses, SHW allows you to customize your coverage with optional add-ons. These additions target specific areas of your home that might be more vulnerable or require specialized protection. Consider these options:

• Central Vacuum: For homes with built-in cleaning systems, this add-on provides coverage for repairs or replacements.
• Lawn Sprinkler System: Keep your lawn green and vibrant with protection against sprinkler system malfunctions.
• Limited Roof Leak: This add-on offers coverage for roof leaks, a common and potentially costly problem for homeowners.
• Pool/Spa Equipment: If you have a pool or spa, this add-on can protect the vital equipment that keeps them running smoothly.
• Septic System: For homes with septic systems, this coverage safeguards against costly repairs or replacements.
• Standalone Freezer: Protect your extra freezer and its precious contents with this add-on.
• Sump Pump: Prevent water damage in your basement with coverage for your sump pump.
• Well Pump: Ensure a reliable water supply with protection for your well pump.

Decoding the Costs: A Price Point Perspective

The cost of a Select Home Warranty plan depends on several factors, including the plan you choose, any optional add-ons you select, available discounts, and your location. A basic plan can range from $350 to $600 annually.

To provide some context, here’s a glimpse at how SHW’s pricing compares to some of its competitors:

• American Home Shield: $30 – $45 per month
• Choice Home Warranty: $44 per month
• First American Home Warranty: $28 – $45 per month
• America’s 1st Choice Home Club: $50 per month

The Voice of the Customer: Navigating the Reviews

Before making a decision, it’s crucial to listen to the voices of those who have already walked this path. Let’s delve into what customers are saying about Select Home Warranty across various review platforms:

• Better Business Bureau (BBB): While SHW is not BBB accredited, it holds a B rating. Some customers have reported slower-than-average customer service, limited claim acceptance, and challenges finding network technicians. However, others have praised the agents’ interpersonal skills and knowledge.
• ConsumerAffairs: This platform rates SHW at 4.4 out of 5 stars, based on over 1,300 reviews. Customers often cite the large repair professional network and lower monthly costs as key advantages. However, some have reported confusion during the claim process and limited claim acceptance.
• U.S. News: U.S. News gives SHW 3.9 stars out of 5, highlighting the company’s same-day response time and accessibility. Discount options and add-on coverage customization are also mentioned as positives, while higher monthly costs are noted as a potential drawback.
• ConsumersAdvocate: This platform rates SHW at 4.8 stars out of 5, praising the company’s transparency, claims processing, coverage options, additional benefits, and customer experience. However, they also mention a waiting period and a maintenance record requirement.

Glimmers of Gold: The Allure of Select Home Warranty

Despite the mixed reviews, SHW offers several compelling features that might make it a worthwhile consideration:

• 30-Day Trial Period: This allows you to test the waters and cancel if you’re not satisfied with the service.
• Modern Online Presence: SHW’s virtual claims process allows you to submit claims 24/7, streamlining the process and connecting you with a service technician quickly.
• 90-Day Repair Guarantee: This ensures that covered repairs are completed correctly and protects your investment.
• Multi-Year Coverage Discounts: This offers significant savings for customers who commit to more than one year of coverage.

Decoding the Fine Print: Addressing Common Questions

Before you jump in, let’s address some frequently asked questions about Select Home Warranty:

• Is SHW available nationwide? SHW is available in 46 states and the District of Columbia, but not in Nevada, New York, Washington, or Wisconsin.
• Does SHW have coverage limits? Yes, SHW has coverage limits, with HVAC capped at $2,000 and appliances, plumbing, and electrical capped at $500. Additional coverage allows for $400, and Freon has a limit of $250. Importantly, SHW requires records of annual maintenance to receive these limits; otherwise, you’re limited to $150 for appliances and systems.
• Can I use my own contractor for repairs? SHW typically arranges technicians for repairs. However, if they have trouble finding one in your area, they may allow you to find your own, but you must obtain authorization to be reimbursed.

The Verdict: Is Select Home Warranty Right for You?

Select Home Warranty presents itself as a viable option for homeowners seeking protection against unexpected repair costs. Its tiered plan structure, optional add-ons, and multi-year discounts offer flexibility and potential savings. However, it’s essential to acknowledge the mixed customer reviews, particularly regarding claim acceptance and customer service.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to choose Select Home Warranty rests on your individual needs and risk tolerance. Weigh the pros and cons carefully, compare SHW with other top home warranty companies, and consider your budget and the specific systems and appliances you want to protect. By doing your due diligence, you can make an informed decision and choose the plan that best safeguards your home and provides you with the peace of mind you deserve.

Ready to take the next step in protecting your home? Click here and explore how Select Home Warranty can provide the coverage you need!

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