American Home Shield is one of the most popular home warranty providers in the United States. Homeowners can purchase an AHS warranty plan to cover the cost of repairs and replacements for various home appliances and systems. One of the most important systems in a home is the plumbing system, which is responsible for bringing in clean water and removing waste. In this article, we will explore whether American Home Shield covers plumbing, what the coverage entails, and frequently asked questions about plumbing coverage.
Does American Home Shield Cover Plumbing?
Yes, American Home Shield does cover plumbing. The company offers a plumbing system coverage plan that includes a range of services, such as repairing and replacing leaks, unclogging drains, and repairing and replacing water heaters. The plan also covers the cost of parts and labor for covered repairs and replacements.
What Does the Plumbing System Coverage Plan Include?
The plumbing system coverage plan offered by American Home Shield includes the following services:
- Repairing and replacing leaks: If there is a leak in your plumbing system, the plan covers the cost of repairing or replacing the affected pipes. This includes leaks in the water supply lines, drain lines, and gas lines.
- Unclogging drains: If a drain in your home becomes clogged, the plan covers the cost of clearing the blockage. This includes sinks, toilets, and shower/bath drains.
- Repairing and replacing water heaters: The plan covers the cost of repairing or replacing a malfunctioning or broken water heater. This includes conventional and tankless water heaters.
- Clearing and repairing main sewer lines: If there is a problem with the main sewer line that connects your home to the city sewer system, the plan covers the cost of clearing and repairing the line.
- Fixtures and faucets: The plan covers the cost of repairing or replacing faucets, showerheads, and other fixtures.
- Stoppages: The plan covers the cost of clearing stoppages caused by normal wear and tear. This includes clearing clogs in your home’s sewer line, toilet, or drain line.
- Valves: The plan covers the cost of repairing or replacing valves that control the water supply to your home. This includes shut-off valves, pressure regulators, and thermal expansion valves.
What Isn’t Covered by the Plumbing System Coverage Plan?
While the plumbing system coverage plan offered by American Home Shield covers a range of services, there are certain exclusions. The plan doesn’t cover the following:
- Pre-existing conditions: If there was a problem with your plumbing system before you purchased the plan, the plan won’t cover the cost of repairing or replacing it.
- Cosmetic damage: The plan doesn’t cover the cost of repairing or replacing fixtures or pipes for cosmetic reasons.
- Code upgrades: If a repair or replacement requires code upgrades, the plan won’t cover the additional cost.
- Septic tanks: The plan doesn’t cover the cost of repairing or replacing septic tanks.
- Water softeners: The plan doesn’t cover the cost of repairing or replacing water softeners.
- Exterior plumbing: The plan doesn’t cover the cost of repairing or replacing exterior plumbing, such as sprinkler systems or swimming pool plumbing.
- Damage from freezing: The plan doesn’t cover the cost of repairing or replacing pipes that freeze and burst due to improper maintenance or neglect.
Frequently Asked Questions about Plumbing Coverage
- What should I do if I have a plumbing problem?
If you have a plumbing problem, the first step is to contact American Home Shield to file a claim. A representative will ask you some questions about the problem and schedule a service appointment with a licensed and insured contractor. You will be responsible for paying a service fee, which ranges from $75 to $125 depending on the plan you have
- What is the service fee for plumbing coverage?
The service fee for plumbing coverage ranges from $75 to $125, depending on the plan you have. You will be responsible for paying this fee each time you file a claim for a plumbing problem.
- How long does it take for a contractor to come out and fix my plumbing problem?
The time it takes for a contractor to come out and fix your plumbing problem depends on the availability of contractors in your area. American Home Shield works with a network of licensed and insured contractors, and they will try to schedule a service appointment as soon as possible. In some cases, a contractor may be able to come out the same day, while in other cases, it may take a few days.
- Are there any limits to the number of claims I can file for plumbing problems?
There are no limits to the number of claims you can file for plumbing problems under the plumbing system coverage plan. However, keep in mind that each claim will be subject to a service fee, and some repairs may not be covered under the plan.
- What should I do if I’m not satisfied with the contractor’s work?
If you’re not satisfied with the contractor’s work, you should contact American Home Shield right away. The company has a customer service team that can help you resolve any issues you may have with a contractor’s work.
- Can I choose my own contractor for plumbing repairs?
No, you cannot choose your own contractor for plumbing repairs under the plumbing system coverage plan. American Home Shield works with a network of licensed and insured contractors to provide services to their customers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, American Home Shield does offer plumbing system coverage as part of its home warranty plans. The plumbing system coverage plan includes a range of services, such as repairing and replacing leaks, unclogging drains, and repairing and replacing water heaters. However, there are certain exclusions, such as pre-existing conditions and cosmetic damage, that are not covered under the plan. If you have a plumbing problem, the first step is to contact American Home Shield to file a claim and schedule a service appointment with a licensed and insured contractor. While there is a service fee for each claim, there are no limits to the number of claims you can file under the plan. Overall, plumbing system coverage from American Home Shield can provide peace of mind and help homeowners avoid unexpected repair costs for their home’s plumbing system.