American Home Shield (AHS) provides various plans to cover appliances and systems in your home, offering peace of mind against unexpected repair costs. Understanding the details of AHS plans can help homeowners budget for and manage potential expenses. Below, we outline the cost of American Home Shield’s offerings, detailing monthly and annual costs, service fees, plan options, and coverage specifics.
Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Costs | $40 – $90 |
| Annual Costs | $480 – $1,100 |
| Service Visit Fee | $75 – $125 |
| Plan Options | ShieldSilver, ShieldGold, ShieldPlatinum |
| Discounts Available | Yes, varies |
| Additional Coverage | Optional add-ons for pools, spas, etc. |
| Exclusions | Specifics vary by plan |
| Contractor Requirement | Must use AHS contractor if available |
Overview of American Home Shield Costs
American Home Shield offers tiered pricing to accommodate different needs and budgets. Here’s a breakdown of their plans:
Monthly and Annual Costs
- Average Monthly Cost: $40 – $90
- Average Annual Cost: $480 – $1,100
- Service Visit Fee: Typically ranges from $75 to $125, depending on the plan and options selected.
American Home Shield Plans Cost
American Home Shield provides three main home warranty plans with varying levels of coverage:
| Plan Level | Average Annual Cost* | Coverage Details |
|---|---|---|
| ShieldSilver | $480 – $600 | Covers 14 major systems including HVAC, electrical, and plumbing |
| ShieldGold | $660 – $840 | Includes all ShieldSilver coverage, plus kitchen and laundry appliances |
| ShieldPlatinum | $960 – $1,100 | All above, plus roof leaks, code violations, and more |
Service Fee Details
The service fee is a fixed amount you pay for each repair visit, which varies by the plan you choose.
Coverage Details
Each plan offers comprehensive coverage to protect various aspects of your home, with specific details outlined below:
What Does American Home Shield Cover?
American Home Shield plans cover a range of appliances and systems to protect homeowners from high repair costs. Each plan builds upon the previous, offering more extensive coverage:
| Plan Level | Average Monthly Cost* | Coverage Details |
|---|---|---|
| ShieldSilver | $40 – $50 | Major systems like HVAC, plumbing, electrical, garage door openers |
| ShieldGold | $55 – $70 | Everything in ShieldSilver plus major appliances like washers, dryers, and refrigerators |
| ShieldPlatinum | $80 – $90 | Everything in ShieldGold, plus roof leak repair, and more |
Optional Add-Ons
- Cost: $5 – $25 each per month
- Details: Coverage for items not included in standard plans, such as pools, spas, and additional guest units.
Coverage Limits
Coverage limits specify the maximum amount AHS will pay for repairs or replacements, which vary significantly between plans and items:
| Covered Item or System | Coverage Limit* |
|---|---|
| HVAC Systems | $1,500 – $5,000 per item, depending on the system |
| Appliances | Up to $4,000 per appliance in ShieldPlatinum |
| Roof Leaks | $1,000 in ShieldPlatinum only |
Exclusions and Limitations
Not all items or issues are covered by AHS. Common exclusions include pre-known conditions or issues resulting from improper maintenance, cosmetic damages, and non-essential components.
Comparison with Other Companies
American Home Shield often compares favorably with other home warranty providers, offering comprehensive coverage options and flexible service fees. Here’s how AHS stands against the competition:
| Company | Average Monthly Cost | Service Fee per Visit |
|---|---|---|
| American Home Shield | $40 – $90 | $75 – $125 |
| America’s 1st Choice Home Club | $45 – $65 | $75 – $125 |
| Choice Home Warranty | $45 – $55 | $65 – $100 |
| Cinch Home Services | $35 – $65 | $100 – $150 |
| First American Home Warranty | $45 – $65 | $75 – $125 |
Is American Home Shield Right for You?
American Home Shield provides various home warranty plans that can significantly reduce the financial impact of home repairs. By comparing the different plans and understanding the specific coverage and exclusions, homeowners can make an informed decision about whether AHS is suitable for their needs. For those looking for comprehensive coverage and flexible service options, American Home Shield offers valuable protection against the unpredictability of home repairs.
For more detailed insights and to compare specific plans, visit our comprehensive guide on home warranty services here.
FAQs about American Home Shield
Do I Need a Home Warranty if I Have Homeowner’s Insurance?
Homeowner’s insurance and home warranties serve different purposes. Homeowner’s insurance typically covers damage from accidents or natural disasters such as fires, storms, or theft. In contrast, a home warranty covers the cost of repairing or replacing home systems and appliances due to wear and tear or mechanical failure. Thus, having both can provide comprehensive coverage for both unforeseen incidents and the maintenance of major systems and appliances.
How Does American Home Shield Warranty Work?
American Home Shield offers a contract that provides for the repair or replacement of home systems and appliances that break down over time. When a covered item fails, the homeowner contacts AHS to file a claim. AHS then sends a qualified contractor to assess the issue. If the problem is covered by the warranty, AHS will handle the repair or replacement costs, subject to the terms of the contract and any applicable service fees.
How Long Does an American Home Shield Warranty Last?
Typically, an American Home Shield warranty is a year-long contract that can be renewed annually. Homeowners can choose to continue their coverage year by year, ensuring continuous protection for their home systems and appliances.
How Do I Cancel My American Home Shield Warranty Policy?
To cancel an American Home Shield warranty, you should contact their customer service department directly. You can typically do this via phone or through their website. It’s important to review your contract terms for any specific conditions or potential cancellation fees. Some plans may require a notice period or charge a fee if the contract is terminated before the renewal date.
Getting Estimates from American Home Shield
When considering an American Home Shield warranty, it’s useful to understand the potential costs and coverage. Here are some key questions to ask:
Questions to Ask
- What does the warranty specifically cover and exclude?
- What are the limits of coverage in terms of dollar amounts or number of repairs?
- Are there any known issues that are not covered by the warranty?
- What is the process for filing a claim?
- Can I choose my own repair technicians or are they assigned by AHS?
- What are the costs for different levels of coverage, and how do they compare to potential out-of-pocket repair expenses?
- What are the cancellation terms if I decide the warranty is not right for me?
Getting clear answers to these questions can help you make an informed decision about whether an American Home Shield warranty is right for your home maintenance needs. For further information, visit American Home Shield Cost Guide on our website.
