American Home Shield Reviews
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About American Home Shield
American Home Shield is a home warranty provider that offers service plans throughout most of the contiguous United States. It has three home warranty plan options, which allow you to choose either a $100 or $125 service fee. Plans cover rust, insufficient maintenance and faulty repairs, which are often excluded from this type of coverage.
- Three plan options
- High coverage limits
- 30-day workmanship guarantee
- Covers rust, corrosion and sediment damage
- Relatively high service fees
- Not available in all states
American Home Shield Reviews
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Reviewed Sept. 13, 2012
The extent to which this company will give you the runaround is beyond belief. I have been dealing with a broken ice maker for literally over a year. The contractor they have sent out six times cannot fix the unit and has reported this to AHS. AHS says that their notes show that the contractor has reported no failure. I have the contractor on record (voicemail and written) that they believe the unit is unrepairable and needs to be replaced. We did get an agent to admit (one time out of dozens of calls) that she found in the notes where it does say that it's unrepairable. Since that call, no one else can seem to find this in the notes.
This is the best part: AHS tells us that they need two contractors to tell them that the unit cannot be repaired but they only have one contractor in the area who services ice makers so they can't help us at this time. "Maybe call back in a month or so to see if we have another one by then." Seriously? So we call and call and call and each time, they escalate our case to a different, probably non-existent, department who denies our claim. I have left a message with the office of the president, so we'll see how that goes.
Reviewed Sept. 12, 2012
Okay, so four days to look at an AC unit, five days to get the wrong compressor, then they have the nerve to rip me off $400 on top of the $600 a year I pay. That is insulting enough. But every customer service person they employed is DMV rude! No concern, no attempt to solve the problem. Even when I cancelled, the idiot I talked to couldn't understand why. I know all these companies are bad, but seriously, they are the absolute worst of the worst. The only thing worse than their service is the customer service people. I'm glad to be done with them.
Reviewed Sept. 12, 2012
I have a plumbing claim on a rental house (clogged drain). AHS came out and denied the claim due to roots. They offered to give me a camera estimate for $250 and then clean out the roots, which would probably be over $1200. I hired another plumber. He did a camera test and said there was no root damage, but pipe damage. He repaired the pipes for $500 and it works fine. This should have been covered. I would like my $500 refunded by AHS.
Reviewed Sept. 11, 2012
They explain their ACH billing practices very poorly. This is the second year that I have to call them over how they fail to tell people their policy. I work at the institution where my account is being debited by them, so I am able to check my account daily. To my surprise, again this year, they are going to debit my account three times in seven weeks because I called in to request my billing date to be changed. If this was explained to me, in the time being, I would have budgeted for these payments. Their policy is that you must be billed twice before you can change your payment date. If not, you will be double-billed like how I am being done. Next year, to help everyone involved, I will let my coverage lapse and then renew after 60 days on the date that I need or go to another company.
Reviewed Sept. 9, 2012
Our AC went out a week ago and based on what I am reading here and what we are dealing with from their customer service department, we will have to fight to get this fixed. Bottom line, this company has a contractual agreement for everyone that pays them a premium. If it's a covered item per the contract, no one should have to deal with this ** they put customers through. I am not sure how they stay in business to be honest. Oh wait, I know from those that pay a premium and never have to use their service, as they have no idea what they are on for until they have to call to get something fixed. I believe a class action lawsuit is on order for these people!
Here is some useful info for anyone who wants to bypass the "gatekeepers" and seek to the president's relations office. The number is 901 537-8000, press #4. Everyone and anyone on here that has a problem with this company needs to flood them with calls and complaints! This has got to be the worst experience I have ever had with the company! Ever!
Reviewed Sept. 7, 2012
It is evident this company does not care about its subscribers. They do not follow up on a service request or complaint about the company they send to your house. My A/C went out 3 months ago, and as of last night, froze up again. I called AHS and they told me to call the A/C company since they gave me a 90-day warranty. They never offered to help even though I am paying them for the service. The company they sent is awful. Took them 3 times before they could fix it and their customer reps are not very helpful. I will not renew with AHS. I am so dissatisfied with their customer service that I paid for extended warranties for my washer and dryer.
Reviewed Sept. 6, 2012
I have paid premiums for 5 years to AHS without ever using the service, but as a single mom, it was peace of mind. This year, I had two incidents which have turned out to be major nightmares due to AHS. The first, a leaking pipe in my attic which caused major water damage. Getting them to identify an emergency is next to having a leaking pipe in my attic. After, 5 repairmen from two different companies came only to fix the problems and days later it would start leaking again. This has cost thousands of dollars for water damage that could have been avoided by the proper repair on the first call.
The second, my a/c is not working properly. After the repairman came, it was determined the major part of my a/c unit was no longer available. AHS would have to ship the new condenser from the manufacturer. By the way disposal of the old part and extra items that were considered to be non-covered items, total cost to me of $360. After a week (with no a/c in Texas 100 degrees + weather), I'm still waiting for the part to be delivered. The customer service department personnel are rude and could care less about any of your concerns. No one in the company even tries to follow up. It is quite obvious the employees are there for a paycheck and don't want to be bothered by customer complaints. I am cancelling my contract and will be seeking the advice of an attorney on what can be done. This company is a scam and I will be telling every person I ever come across about the horrible, horrible ordeals and to stay away from purchasing AHS.
Reviewed Sept. 6, 2012
I have been a loyal customer since 2000. There are years I had no claims, then years I had several claims. I typically call them for pool or AC repair. I just received a letter that they reviewed my account and found that I had too many claims. I have paid over $7,200 over the years and they sure have recouped their money. Apparently, they only like customers and retain customers who do not file claims. This is unfair insurance practice!
Reviewed Sept. 5, 2012
I had a minor leak under my kitchen sink after just moving in to my new place. I just bought the home and it came with the warranty so I figured what the heck and called. The guy came out, fiddled with stuff, and said he had to replace the faucet. When he left, it now had two leaks and they were 10 times worse. I told him he needed to fix them right away because my bowls under the sink were filling up every hour and I couldn't use my sink. He said he could be there sometime next week!
I called AHS back and they said they weren't responsible for 2nd party actions. It was their repairman that they sent! Finally, he called and said he will put in a $50 faucet to replace the $300 one. I tried to get the buyout option where I will do it myself and they will pay me their costs. They said they would send me $65 for my new faucet and the install. Total ripoff. A terrible company and total ripoff (doubly!). Don't use them. Insurance is supposed to cover you when you need them. They will take your money and when you need them, they will not be there.
Reviewed Sept. 5, 2012
On June 20, 2012, I had called AHS to repair my air conditioner. The company they called was incompetent and all they wanted to do was to sell me a new unit for $4,500. The service tech took one look at my outside unit and said, "Yes, it's broken and needs to be replaced." After I said, "I will think about it," he said that he could order parts. I called my normal rep out. It was fixed the next day and has been fine ever since. When I asked for a refund approx. June 30, they said they would process and send it to me. Now, it's Sept. 5 and still no refund. They have lousy service when you call for anything. Be sure you can hold on for 20 minutes or more. People on the phone as service reps lie.
Reviewed Sept. 5, 2012
We started out with AHS three years ago and had to finally file a first time claim last year. Our air conditioner capacitor went out early on a hot Texas day. After speaking with a representative, the companies that they use on their list were not able to come out for three days. After myself doing all of the legwork, another company not on their list came out and we paid them upfront. We did get reimbursed through AHS within a month. While making a day of this though, I learned that several companies would not even contract business with them. They have poor customer service with the management, amongst other negative areas.
Our air conditioner is out once again and they refused to send a legit company out to us. After several phone calls throughout today, my husband spoke with a gentlemen from AHS and they are sending another company out sometime tomorrow. I spoke with a supervisor earlier this evening and she offered nothing and then lied and said she called us back after we agreed she would but never did. There is so much more to this, but I am so damn hot that I can't even type anymore. Bottom line is do not use this company for your supplemental insurance needs for home repairs. No descent companies are contracted with them.
Reviewed Sept. 4, 2012
My refrigerator stopped working 4 1/2 weeks ago. I called and waited for 24 hours for someone to come. The person came. He did something. I don't know what. He said to call them if it did not work. Well, it stopped one hour after he left. I called the company and there was no answer on their phones. I called American Home Shield and told them. They also tried the company: no reply. So, they sent another company. This man has been to our home every other day putting a band aid on the refrigerator.
It was only after I got real upset that he told the company it can be fixed - how much did it cost us? The make, I was told, cost too much and that they could give me $125.00 to get another. My refrigerator is a Maytag French door with freezer on the bottom. It is 7 years old. Now, why would any fool accept that they would not pay for all the food lost or the ice we have to keep some food in a cooler? It is to the point where something needs to be done and I do not mean yesterday; I mean today. This is very bad - to have to wait this long. I keep calling and telling American Home Shield, but they seem to act like this is the norm. Maybe for them, but not for me.
Reviewed Sept. 4, 2012
AHS sent three different contractors after my calls that the A/C unit would not shut off nor cool. The first two said they did repairs and the unit was now cooling. The third guy now says the unit needs new coil on my paperwork and AHS could call me. AHS called and said they would not cover due to the third guy saying the unit was not maintained. He did not even open my unit to look inside. I asked why 3 guys each took my $60 and why AHS takes my $600 per year. AHS has gotten worse each year. Last year, a garbage disposal was installed and I had to call because it was leaking. The 2nd guy told me I was lucky the unit had not even been attached and could have come off.
Two years ago, a contractor came out for my main floor A/C and told me the unit was not working and that I needed to pay him $5,000 for a new unit since my unit had not been maintained. I called another private contractor who found a bad $27 relay and the unit has been working since. I will not be renewing my AHS contract since they are a sham. I will just hire contractors and will be ahead. Do not sign up with AHS - you will just be wasting your money. Note: Real estate agents use AHS as a ploy to make you feel protected and safe to get the sale. If anyone files a lawsuit, I am on board.
Reviewed Sept. 4, 2012
I have diligently made my payment to American Home Shield for the past two years. Suddenly, my garage door broke. I was not worried because I had American Home Shield. I was wrong. They sent a technician to my house two days later. To my surprise, the garage door was not covered under the various sub parts of the contract, plus I still had to pay the service fee to have the tech come and look even though it is not covered. Why couldn't they tell me that over the phone when I made the request? With utter amazement, I called the customer service line and they sounded excited to deny my claim. I asked to cancel the policy as a result of poor service and lack of coverage. This process was a runaround. I eventually got to the cancellation dept. just to get more of a runaround plus now they want a $30 admin fee to cancel the policy. I'm completely unsatisfied with this company and their lack of service. Aside from this post, I will be making a complaint to the BBB as well. Do not sign up for American Home Shield.
Reviewed Sept. 4, 2012
HVAC Coverage No AC - I had an emergency service repair because we have a 5 month old baby and live in Mobile, AL and Hurricane Isaac was close to landfall when our systems Freon lines froze and stopped blowing cold air. No AC on the gulf coast is brutal, and to put a 5 month old into the situation, it made it all the worse. I can’t open the windows because mosquitoes will come in and possibly spread West Nile virus as has been reported recently to keep infants and elderly indoors.
Three months prior to this, we had already had 2 lbs of Freon filled in the lines due to the same problem. The technician said that there was probably a leak and that they (AHS) would replace the entire system if they had to come back again in the same season. Fast forward to 8/30/12 and the technician is pumping 5 lbs of Freon in the system and informing me that we need a new evaporator coil which would be covered; says nothing else then leaves after he gets his $60 check.
I get a call the next day by one of AHS reps saying that it will cost me $660 to fix the coil, and do ductwork and mastic and float switch and new drain pain. I said I couldn’t afford that and that I just wanted fixed what you all covered and to get my AC back working properly. They never told me that they wouldn't install the coil unless I did pay the $660 upgrade and modification. I'm at their mercy and will for the rest of my life tell everyone to not use them or get them to drop their coverage! I’m sickened to death at the service of this company that puts American in their company name; it should be Gypsy Home Warranty.
Reviewed Sept. 1, 2012
I have been a loyal customer to American Home Shield for years. I highly recommended them to everyone and I have other family members who are now using them. When I got my renewal policy, the price had gone up a bit but I was still okay, I understand. Then, today, I got a letter in the mail thanking for me for the opportunity to serve me all these years but after a review of claim history (they had to install a new AC unit this year - coincidence, I think not), they would be unable to renew this contract and previous renewal approvals were revoked.
We have never missed a payment, never given a moment's grief to any of the contractors or customer service representatives. I have been an ambassador for the merit of using AHS above all of their competitors. I will be writing to the corporate office to request a review and get a detailed explanation. I hope this will be resolved but if not, every 5-star rating I have given over the years has been dissolved to less than one. I am disappointed in a company that always provided such exceptional customer service. So, buyers, beware. Everything is sunshine and roses until you have a big claim.
Reviewed Aug. 30, 2012
The air-conditioning secondary drain pan under the coil is leaking. AHS sent a technician to evaluate and repair. Upon arriving, he felt the condensation line was clogged - he blew out the line and it didn't resolve the issue. He then tore apart the coil compartment housing and then changed his evaluation to be 31 years of FOD gathering in the pan. Repair would require the entire secondary drain pan to be removed, cleaned, repaired and/or replaced. The bottom line is the work would take 4 to 6 hours to complete. The technician stated this would not be considered routine maintenance. However, AHS claims it is routine maintenance and will not cover the repair work.
I would not recommend American Home Shield to anyone. As a matter of fact, I am contacting Wells Fargo, Bank of America and GMAC Home Mortgage companies to inform them of the poor service of this company. Each of these mortgage companies recommends AHS for home warranty insurance. There must be someone out there who is reputable. AHS is not. This is not the first incident where we have encountered "hidden costs" for repairs.
Reviewed Aug. 29, 2012
We bought a house that the seller offered an AHS warranty on. It's a useless scam. We had an electrical system failure that almost burned our house down and we reported it to AHS for repair. They "covered" the cost of the repair, but then there were these add on fees for "access," etc., that ran close to a thousand dollars. It's obvious that this company will take your money, but will nickel and dime you on a claim. Stay away and do not buy a home that has a warranty from these people.
Reviewed Aug. 28, 2012
I signed up for AHS a few years ago through a mortgage company. When I refinanced my home with a different mortgage company, I contacted AHS to notify them of this and set up monthly automatic payments through my credit card. As outlined in the contract, this was acceptable. My contract has renewed with them three times since the switch. My contract renewed on 8/1/2012. They received my monthly automated payment on 8/2/2012. I contacted them on 8/15/2012 to update my payment information and was informed that my contract had been canceled on 8/15/2012 by the old mortgage company. This was not one of the acceptable reasons outlined in the contract for which they could cancel my contract.
At first, no one could explain why the contract was canceled. After several emails, they decided that the contract was canceled due to non-payment. In my next communication with them, I provided records where they received the automated payment. Each time they contacted me, they directed me to their sales department. Once I called them, they ended up selling me a more expensive contract. I needed the coverage. When I asked why the increase from the original canceled contract, the salesman stated, it was the best that he could do. When I emailed and requested a refund for the difference between the canceled contract and the new one, they quit responding to me. I am now pursuing alternatives to get them to refund me for the contract that they canceled against their own agreement. I am wondering how many other people they have done this to.
Reviewed Aug. 28, 2012
I wish I read this before soliciting membership. Home maintenance insurance, what a great idea, so we thought. After purchasing a contract, our area experienced a really bad storm, which was when the HVAC unit stopped working. Having asthma, I was grateful to have this service. So, we quickly called to place a service call. After the initial visit by the service technician, we were hopeful that the issue would be quickly resolved. Instead, we waited for well over two weeks, then we were informed by an AHS rep that in the opinion of the technician based on how "hot" the system felt (it was summer), he concluded that the system was not working prior to the contract becoming eligible.
AHS's policy is not to repair any items that may be inoperable before the contract (understandably), except that it actually came out of the technician’s mouth saying that he quantified the length of time the HVAC system was not working by how it felt. Of course, I called AHS management only to be given some flip, unreasonable and nasty response. At the end of the day, we had to come out of pocket to have the repairs done, while AHS is comfortable collecting the monthly fee while refusing to honor the contract.
Reviewed Aug. 27, 2012
Wouldn't divulge content in writing of a combo plan - I called AHS as I was considering a renewal of an existing plan. The agent (Whit) suggested going with a combo plan. I asked in for specifics. He said he couldn't give them to me in writing. I'm not sending in a payment not knowing what I'm paying for.
Reviewed Aug. 27, 2012
AC unit compressor broke and ACS will not repair it - Geobecke Air services told us that this is a routine covered item and he does not understand why AHS will not cover it. AHS told us that it is not covered. We have a geothermal unit. They refuse to cover fixing air despite an active paid contract with them.
Reviewed Aug. 25, 2012
I contacted AHS on their website to request service for a garage door opener not working. They send out A1 door repair and the technician stated that somebody obviously hit the garage door and that it needs to be repaired with all the springs and pulleys attached. He called AHS and stated this claim. As the door is not covered, per their warranty, the claim was denied.
I called A1 to discuss their service (as they collected the fee and did no work) and asked them about the qualifications of their company as it appears that they do not do any garage door opener work but strictly door repair. After a short call, they hung up on me. I contacted AHS and they once again denied my claim citing the door needed repairs. I explained to them that I called about the garage door opener and they should pay for a replacement, as in the warranty rules, but they refused. I filed a claim through BBB - no resolution so far.
AHS used to be pretty good. They contracted with good companies and charged $35 for a service call and warrantied their work within 30 days. In the last several years, they have denied most of my claims citing various things such as: not maintained well, not serviced annually, damaged beyond normal wear and tear, not covered, or they ended performing shoddy repairs that required repeat repairs and are still not repaired properly. As soon as BBB claim is closed, I will cancel my contract and inform those who are even thinking about using AHS, to steer clear of this ripoff company.
Reviewed Aug. 25, 2012
I called AHS about my Maytag washer on 8/1/12 and a "tech" from Bay to Bay Appliance Repair, LLC was dispatched to my home on 8/3/2012. He fiddled around with the control mechanism and got it working. He told my wife to report it again if there were any more problems. The next day it was still not working properly and my wife took a picture of the water that was still standing and sent it to Bay to Bay's e-mail address.
Four days later, there was still no response from Bay to Bay, so I called AHS again. Bay to Bay called the next day, the 8th, and dispatched a different "tech" out on the 13th. This one said a part was needed and Bay to Bay would call when the part came in. The part came in and the original Bay to Bay "tech" returned on the 17th. He replaced the part and the washer went from not working properly to not working at all. He said a whole different part had to be ordered.
Today is the 24th and I am yet to hear anything from Bay to Bay. I called AHS last night to file a complaint and the rep was really understanding and empathetic, and said she would make sure Bay to Bay called me today. Today came and went and I didn't get a call. I called AHS again and the rep I got this time was a real sarcastic, unhelpful **. She said the parts had been ordered and there's nothing more they can do. This will be my last year with AHS.
Reviewed Aug. 24, 2012
Claim denial - I have contacted AHS two times this past year and both times were told that because I had not maintained my HVAC and pool that the item in question would not be covered. I have both of these items serviced regularly. I believe their contractors get paid to lie about the condition of the units. I will be retired next month and will pursue other action against this scamming company.
Reviewed Aug. 24, 2012
My AC has gone out again this year. For the past three years, this has been an annual event! I have been with American Home Shield for 5+ years. They have sent companies out to service my air conditioning unit several times in the past three years. The first year, someone was sent out about three or four times. Last year, they sent someone out about five times and this year, someone has only been out once to service my AC so far. I have been told about 4 or 5 times over the last three years that I have a leak in my unit. Two of those times were after the leak was supposed to be fixed. Some of the diagnosis that I was told after a tech came out was, “You have a leak. It just needs to be cleaned. It's working but it's just really hot outside and your compressor is out.” Well, one of those trips last year was supposed to repair the leak but I have been told since then that I have a leak. Also last year, I was told that I needed a compressor and it was supposedly replaced. But lo and behold, I was told this week that I need a compressor almost exactly a year since the first one was put into my system. The first one was put in late July 2011 and I assumed the next one will be put in late August 2012. We are writing on the part.
After receiving the tech report on Wednesday, August 22, 2012, American Home Shield decided that it would be a smart idea to order another compressor and put it into my system. Now, I'm no genius but it seems to me that this is an idiotic decision since you just put a compressor in last year and you have serviced this unit multiple times in the past three years. This tells me that this unit has problems and the entire unit should be replaced! I am wasting so much money with this company, American Home Shield. I pay them a monthly fee of $53.25, which is about a $5 increase from last year and each time a tech comes out, I have to pay $75, which is a $15 increase from last year. This is highway robbery! With the money that I have wasted with American Home Shield, I could have just bought a new unit and called it a day, or I could have taken HVAC classes and fix my own unit the right way! I would not recommend this warranty to package to anyone who wanted to cover a mousetrap! I have lost time from work dealing with them and I have had to spend more money because it is too hot to live in the house, so cooking and washing is totally out of the question! This company is draining me mentally and financially!
Each time they come out, you have to pay the tech a $75 service fee unless it is within a month and it is for the exact same problem before. For example, once they enter the compressor and in the next two weeks, it stops cooling again because of the leak. I will have to pay them $75 even though they just repaired the AC two weeks ago because now the problem is the leak. The tech that came out on 8/21/12 did not diagnose a leak but I'm sure that will be the next issue. In my experience, American Home Shield does not stand by its word, which is they will repair the appliance or replace it if it cannot be fixed. That is absolutely a false promise! I would advise anyone to go with another company because I feel like I have been ripped off! I am searching for a new home warranty company and I will definitely cancel my contract with American Home Shield as soon as I find a company who is reliable and who puts into action the promises it makes to customers. American Home Shield’s promise to customers is empty words because they don’t satisfy the customer nor do they try very hard to do so. To all consumers, I hope I have helped you all make wise decisions on your home warranty packages.
Reviewed Aug. 24, 2012
We moved into our home 5 months ago and purchased the AHS warranty at the time of purchase. I called in a complaint a month ago when the electric range would not maintain heat. It had an F3 error code and food did not brown or cook. The repairman came out promptly and stated that the entire computer control unit was fried. He stated he would need to call in but in his experience, they would probably offer to replace the range. Instead, AHS told him they would need to research finding parts for it. When that yielded nothing, they stated he would have to send in the control unit to AHS and they would have it rebuilt. That was 6 weeks ago and we still are without an oven! I can't get past the fact that the repairman said that depending on the person you talk to, you either get a new oven or you get someone that wants to make you stand on your head waiting for parts and rebuilds. In our own experiences with AHS, 10 yrs ago, we had a similar issue with an oven in another home and they replaced the oven instantly. I don't understand having to go through this waiting game and torture now. This is not prompt and efficient. I am disillusioned and will report this to BBB, cancel and move to another company.
Reviewed Aug. 22, 2012
I have had AHS since 1999 for my home and the service is getting worse and now dangerous. I had a hot water line break under my sink on Sunday. I called up to get emergency service requested, but the stupid agent just put it in as a "whenever, no rush" request. I fussed on Monday morning to get it changed to emergency, had to cancel the one plumber to get their national buddy company ARS/Rescue Rooter to come. The technician arrived at 5PM (3 hours late) and he fixed the copper pipe line (very nice job) but failed to replace the spring loaded safety valve on the pipe that ensures that the piping doesn't over pressurize!
I called on Tuesday and Wednesday morning to get them to put in the paperwork (plumber who came refused to call to get authorization) so that the next step could be done, perhaps by another company. I called AHS and the agent was useless. I asked for a supervisor but got connected to someone in the authorization group. She said the safety valve isn't covered and she went on and on. I clarified that this could cause more pipe breaks if the system over pressurizes and that AHS is going to end up paying more! Also, the repair made violates Maryland state law to disable the safety relief valve! Still no satisfaction here. The AHS folks refuse to complete the job correctly.
Note that I am a mechanical engineer, with a professional license, know these water systems and what happens if the spring-loaded valve is closed, played with to prevent leakages! I have had such bad service over the past 2 years that I must find a better company. $760 per year and they are not doing it correctly!
Reviewed Aug. 22, 2012
My AC was barely cooling, so I contacted AHS and they sent a contractor out. They guys checked the system and said the head pressure was too high and the condenser unit needed to be replaced. The next day the same contractor said they had to come out again and take photos for AHS. The next day I was contacted by the contractor and told AHS was denying the claim. I called AHS and the said they were denying the claim because the AC wasn't cooling because I had used an acid wash and not washed it off properly causing corrosion.
This is a complete lie! I have never used any acid on the unit. I demanded a second opinion and they sent contractor. The second guy said the unit was low on freon, added some, but never checked for leaks. It cools better by 2 degrees, but still not what it was before this started happening. AHS will make up what they want to deny an expensive claim. Don't get a home warranty expecting them to repair anything other than very minor claims.
Reviewed Aug. 22, 2012
I picked up American Home Shield 2 years ago. I paid to warrant my home and pool. No need for them the first year at all. The second year rates went up on everything but I decided to keep them. I made my first call when my refrigerator went out. A technician came out, found the issue and said he would call in the morning (mind you it has now been two days and I have lost all the food). American Home Shield called this morning to inform me that under Article 2; Paragraph 3; subsection 7; line 2; that my repair is not covered. I have now been on hold for 30 minutes waiting to cancel my contract!
Reviewed Aug. 21, 2012
I've been with AHS for close to 2 years. Within this time, I've made a request for our 3 year old dryer that's making a highly intense squeaking sound. They have sent a service for it and found out it would be cheaper for them to replace it. And they did give me a meager amount minus of course the $100 service fee that left me close to nothing to buy a new dryer. They replaced our spa pump which saved us $200, I have to admit. But that was offset by 2 other requests that cost $200 for our duct and water softener. When these servicemen came, they almost always believed that these services will be covered by AHS, only to hear from AHS that they're not covered for certain reasons. I was warned by this by a colleague but I thought their offer was believable at my expense. I am sharing these to other consumers who feel taken advantage of.
Reviewed Aug. 21, 2012
I should have done better research before giving my business and my money to this company. When it comes to actually getting a claim honored, American Home Shield is an expert at denying it. Their personnel is well trained at telling you that you have not given proper maintenance or you don't have the proper documentation to prove you have given maintenance. Also, they will deny your claim immediately because of pre-existing conditions which their selected contractors readily report to them.
I paid on a timely basis for five years before I made a claim for the replacement of my AC unit. The claim was denied immediately. After months of playing phone tag with the contractor and the countless AHS reps, an AHS supervisor decided to have a bit of mercy on me and offered to cover the cost of replacing my AC's compressor, not the entire unit. I thought, "Great! I could maybe pay the difference to get the entire unit replaced which was what really needed to be done." Their contractor had quoted a replacement cost of $2,200 for the compressor.
When this supervisor called back with the approval, she extended a cash out amount of $540, their cost of the compressor. Since they do so many of these repairs, they buy them in bulk. This was the only option given. My acceptance had to be recorded for the check to be processed. It has been eight weeks and I am yet to receive my check. I've had to pay two additional months since I don't dare cancel until I get my check! I was offered this service through my mortgage company, Wells Fargo. I thought surely it is a reputable company if they are promoting AHS to their customers. Big mistake! AHS has been sued in a class-action lawsuit. Too bad I found out after the fact.
Reviewed Aug. 20, 2012
110 degrees in Las Vegas. I put in a service request on Thursday, no response. Emailed, no response. I called and said they would handle, nothing. I called again. After 4 days, they finally sent out flake company Mighty Air, not. Now up to 5 days for compressor and a charge of $400 in addition to the $75 service call (doubled over the years). I know all these warranty companies suck, but these people are really idiots. I'm canceling my contract after this. No concern, no service and no solution.
Reviewed Aug. 20, 2012
AHS has not helped! This is still ongoing. Our main line was partially blocked at 2am Saturday. Our basement took on a lot of water (1 to 2 inches) when our water softener went through the regeneration step. We called AHS immediately. They said they would find a technician and have them call us back. After working on clean-up for the next two hours with no call back, we decided to call a plumber we knew. He didn't do drain work but gave us a contact on a plumber who did. We called but there was no answer. Exhausted at 5am from cleaning up water, we decided to wait until morning. We called AHS again as soon as we awoke and told them that no one called. They said they couldn't get a hold of a contractor and gave us authorization to call ourselves.
We finally got through to a plumber and he refused to do the work under AHS because AHS requires them to call when they get to the job and authorize work. Sometimes, they claim, this call has taken up to 2 hours, and then they were not paid for that lost time by AHS or the customer. We contacted another plumber and got the same thing. They would not do work for AHS. So I called AHS back and asked them to find someone in our area that would do work for them. The agent said they would and then called me back saying they had left a message with several businesses and I should expect a call in 30 minutes. We did not receive a call all day. So at 7pm on Saturday, 17 hours after we discovered our problem, I decided to call another plumbing service. They said they did accept AHS but would only take my number and call in the morning. They would not send a tech on an emergency call with AHS. I asked what if I contracted them outside of the AHS warranty. They said then they would dispatch someone.
In our area, everyone seems to take precautions against not getting paid for their work by AHS. They either refuse to work with them at all, or they treat their AHS customer very differently, giving them second class service. As of now, I have given up trying to work through AHS. It is Monday, 53 hours after we discovered our wet basement and we still have a clogged drain. I have just called a company and told them I would pay for the repairs myself and try to get AHS to reimburse me later. I’ll update on the success of that later. This warranty does not seem to be worth the cost of it.
Reviewed Aug. 19, 2012
AHS does not act in good faith. Do not fall in its trap. I reported a leak in the main water line to my property. Their contractor misread the location of the leak to be outside of the property and therefore not a covered repair, while the true location was inside. I filed another service request. It was rejected without any reason. I filed the third service request. AHS contractor tried to charge me $4,500 for a Job that I finished it at my own cost for $1,900. AHS business practices are fraudulent. I think the law should stop their operation.
Reviewed Aug. 19, 2012
AHS is misunderstood and people aren't always completely honest. - I personally have no complaints, zero after 6 years of doing business with AHS. I'm a Real Estate Broker in Texas and AHS is 'the only home protection plan' for me. I make sure every one of my clients have a Seller Protection Plan when they list their house with me and I make sure the Buyers get a Buyer Protection Plan when they purchase one of my listings. I have 17 licensed agents that work for me and we all offer American Home Shield to our customers and clients. If they don't sign up, we have them sign a disclosure that states that they were offered the plan and declined to accept the offer. By the way, I am not compensated by American Home Shield for selling their product(s).
As in all insurance, home protection plans come in several different sizes to match anyone's budget. It has to do with the levels of coverage, limitations and exclusions. The old adage about "you get what you pay for" fits perfectly when you choose your coverage. A basic "Core" plan is offered, it is the cheapest. For $80 more you can get more coverage. For $55 more, you can get even more. The most popular plan is called the "Flex" plan. It costs more but it's a bargain because the price is discounted for choosing the highest level of service.
The Flex Plan includes the basic Core coverage and the two (2) other plans (Service Plus & Coverage Plus) at a combined discounted price (I'm only familiar with Texas plans). Basic Core coverage has the least coverage, the most exclusions and limitations. The Flex plan has the most coverage, the least exclusions and limitations. The difference in the cost between the basic Core coverage and the Flex plan is only about $80 bucks but the coverage is increased by $ thousands. Remember, you get what you pay for, so take a few minutes to read the easy-to-read brochure before you choose, or call (866) 859-3401 and a helpful well-trained sales person will answer your questions and make suggestions to consider. Remember to look at the single-option item coverages offered at nominal additional cost if applicable such as pool/spa coverage, water well, septic system, and other individual items that may or may not apply to your situation.
I have had excellent satisfaction with AHS. Yes we've had problems due to levels of coverages selected and we've had technicians that have made mistakes; however, AHS always finds a solution. Sometimes it involves getting a 'No-Charge' second opinion from a different technician. Once the problem is reported to me by a customer or one of my agents, I'm able to call AHS and speak to someone to compare the notes on the screen to what I'm being told by my customer or my agent. Usually, the stories don't match, completely enabling us to dig a little deeper into the story. I don't get any satisfaction out of telling you that people don't always tell the truth...thinking it might help if they bend the facts... maybe AHS will cover more if they bend the facts a little. In fact, oftentimes AHS does cover items that are not covered to diffuse the situation. They don't have to do it but they have done it to 'keep the peace' and I truly appreciate it!
I could go on and on about American Home Shield as I have had an exclusive relationship with the company for about 6 years. I have dozens of success stories to tell and I've helped my customers save thousands of dollars by knowing which product to select and by getting to know how it all works. It works great in my opinion and I'll be happy to share my success stories. You may contact me at **. Thank you.
Reviewed Aug. 17, 2012
American Home Shield service is substandard! I put in a Service Call on Tuesday morning, 8/7/12. AHS assigned the work to Greenway Home Services. Greenway Home Services responded to service request, Tuesday afternoon. Manny from Greenway said repair was likely to be very costly (washer won't spin, bearings broken, and machine making very loud noises) and Greenway would send out email Wednesday morning. Since we never heard anything from AHS, I called them on Saturday, 8/11 and got disconnected after being on hold for 25 minutes. I called back and finally spoke to "Donna" after being on hold another 28 minutes. Donna said they have not heard from Greenway (Greenway "hadn't called" AHS). I asked why AHS didn't contact Greenway when they didn't hear from them after a few days. Donna did not have an answer for that simple question. Donna said she would make a call, send an email, and follow-up with Greenway on Monday, 8/13 and should have an update by noon.
I called Greenway Monday morning, 8/13 and spoke with Moraine. Moraine said she sent an email with their diagnosis to AHS. When I told her AHS said they hadn't received anything, Moraine said she'd resend it right away. I called AHS on Monday afternoon, 8/13, and they claimed they still had not received anything. I asked that they call Greenway while I waited on hole, which they did. After a few minutes, AHS came back on the line and said they had spoken to Moraine at Greenway and would make a determination shortly.
I called AHS on Wednesday morning, 8/15, because we still hadn't heard anything. AHS said they never received anything from Greenway and was sending a service technician from Fix-It-Right to diagnose the problem with our washer. The service tech from Fix-It-Right arrived Wednesday afternoon, 8/15 and diagnosed the washer as the same issue diagnosed by the Greenway service tech. On Thursday, 8/16, we received an email from AHS stating they were sending out a third service technician from yet another company, to diagnose the problem with our washer. I called AHS on Friday, 8/17 and was told that they needed a second opinion before determining if the problem was covered under our warranty. I pointed out they already had 2 opinions, both of which were the same. It seems to me, AHS is giving us the runaround and keeps sending different service technicians in the hopes that one will say what AHS wants them to say so that the washer isn't covered. Meanwhile, we've been waiting 10 days to get our washer fixed or replaced.
Reviewed Aug. 16, 2012
I have two home covered with 2-10 warranty and have had no issues with them for 11 years now. My new home is covered by American Home Shield - horrible decision. I had a leak due to worn glue in one of my pipes, not covered! They say it's not wear and tear? Then the plumber cuts a hole in my wall and they say not covered! The plumber told them my wall was already damaged. I argued that this was not true. He cut the whole to get to the pipe. I finally get a supervisor after 30 minutes and she is rude and nasty. This is the worst service I have ever had. I proceeded to explain to her that my wall was not damaged prior to the plumber cutting the hole and she tells me the plumber says it was. I offered to send her a picture of where he cut the wall and where the baseboards got wet and she rudely says, "I don't need it." She agrees to have it roughly repaired (no sanding or painting). I am cancelling and taking the refund to purchase coverage with 2-10 warranty company.
Reviewed Aug. 16, 2012
In July 2011, I called AHS (after being a customer for over 5 years) and informed them my built in fridge was leaking water inside from the top. They promptly sent a tech out and $60 and 10 minutes later, it was deemed unrepairable. I received a phone call a few days later from AHS telling me that they were going to have to replace the unit but they needed a second opinion first. Another tech came out and made every excuse in the book how it was my fault and how there was nothing wrong. I must have left the door open all the time or my lights are stuck on and so on.
So, he leaves and AHS says they are not replacing the unit. As these types of fridge cost $5,000 and up, I chose to buy another fridge and put it on the other side of the kitchen and just use this one for water, juice and sodas as it gets so wet. I would lose any food products to mush. I read up on all the scams about this company doing anything and everything to get out of honoring their contract and called them up with my concern. They say they apologize but it will cost me $75 to send another tech out to look at the fridge again.
So today, August 11th, 2012, a tech from another company told me the same exact line. The fridge is unrepairable and needs to be replaced. I have also had an independent contractor out and for a third time confirmed exactly the same problem as what the two other AHS service contractors had said. The only person that argued it was something different was the guy that would make or break AHS to pay for it. So here we go again. I wonder what they will try and pull this time. I was duped out of a repair once last year. Now, I am ready for them to try and get out of it again but this time I'm onto their little trick. I can't believe a company as big as them can get away with using contractors that would lie for them to get out of a repair or replacement bill.
Reviewed Aug. 14, 2012
On Monday, July 30, 2012, I placed an emergency service call to American Home Shield (AHS) regarding a ceiling leak in my master bedroom as a result of an air conditioner problem. They dispatched AUS Air and AUS Air stated that I needed the pan replaced under the AC unit because it was bad. The contractor stated that he would need a walkway built in the attic and other additional equipment in order to get the tub in the attic before he could do the work. On Tuesday, July 31, 2012, AHS stated they would be responsible for replacing the tub, but not responsible for building a walkway even though the current AC pan is in the attic, and no walkway was built to install it. AHS decided to call another AC servicer to get a second opinion.
On August 2, 2012, Rocking H Plumbing came out and confirmed that the pan needed to be replaced and stated as much on my receipt. However, aside from being hot in the attic, he alluded to me that he hoped that he didn't get the call to do the job because it was tight in the attic and too much work for the money. When he called it in to his company, he stated that the area was a little tight but it could be done with the help of a second person. He never mentioned anything about a walkway needing to be added. A few minutes later, AHS in return called me back and said it was unsafe to do the job while my ceiling continued to leak.
On Friday, Aug. 10, 2012, I called AHS again to see if they could get someone else out and their response was if I pay another service fee of $60, they would send someone else out to the house. I went ahead and paid the additional $60 fee. On Sunday, Aug. 12, they sent Speedy Electrical and Air Conditioning and the tech Nate blew out the line. He also confirmed to me in writing that the pan needed to be replaced and never mentioned anything about a walkway needed to be added or anything. He indicated that he would turn the paperwork in to AHS on Monday. Later on Monday, Aug. 13, AHS stated that they were still waiting on the paperwork from Speedy.
Around 5:00PM that same day, AHS could not tell me if Speedy was ordering the pan or not, but that someone from Speedy and/or AHS would be following up with me on Tuesday with that information. On Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2012 around 11:00AM, I still had not heard from anyone and I called AHS. They indicated that they would give Speedy a call regarding the part and how soon it would be for someone to come out to repair the problem. After waiting for a while, I hadn't heard back so I called Speedy. I was told that AHS had denied paying for the replacement of the pan. At this point, I was confused because I know AHS confirmed that they would replace the AC pan. I called AHS again for the second time and I was told by Norman that Nate, at Speedy, recommended the pan be replaced, but not necessary, which is totally the opposite of what the 2 other AC techs indicated and what Nate indicated in writing on my receipt.
Lastly, Norman with AHS stated that they would take care of the replacement of the tub and he asked me to have Speedy call them back. When I called Speedy back, they stated they had already closed out the ticket and AHS would have to reissue another service call. To make matters worse, a representative from AHS then called me to discuss whether I still wanted the date of my monthly payments moved to the 15th because the paperwork was never submitted.
It has been clear to me that no one wants to take responsibility for repairing and replacing the AC tub in my attic, which has caused further damage to my ceiling. It is also apparent that AHS has failed to fulfill its contractual obligations to me as a customer by failing to provide repair and replacement services even when I'm entitled to those services and improperly denying my claim. This entire incident has caused me a lot of unnecessary stress and confusion.
Reviewed Aug. 13, 2012
We have asked several times for a service visit to repair our refrigerator which was making loud noises and prevented us from sleeping at night. We were told repeatedly that these requests are not covered as part of the plan. We cancelled our plan and we are going to ask our friends to do so as well.
Reviewed Aug. 13, 2012
How hard is it to fix an oven door? Oven door would not close completely so I called AHS to schedule a technician to come and fix it. This did not fix the door shutting completely and ended up putting a chair up against the door to cook Thanksgiving turkey. Two days later, I opened the door to bake cookies and the door fell off! I called them back and technician stated someone had tampered with the door! Yeah, he did! He then said AHS would not pay for door to get it fixed, since it had been tampered with!
I gave up and started opening the door hoping it wouldn't fall off and using the chair again. After 6 months, the door is still not closing and falling off - gave them a call again. The technician came and ordered hinges again! I’m still waiting on him to come and put the hinges on. This company is a big joke! We have an account with both of our homes and will certainly cancel after my oven is fixed!
Reviewed Aug. 13, 2012
The problem started over six weeks ago. They sent two different contractors and neither one has fixed the problem. In fact, the problem got worse. I have a direct contact at AHS but she won't return my calls. I currently have six outstanding calls with messages left to her. I want this problem resolved. I have been paying for this warranty for over a year.
Reviewed Aug. 10, 2012
On the middle of July 2012, my A/C unit went out. I called American Home Shield for a work order. They sent in a local A/C company. They came the next day and apparently fixed it. After the initial visit, they had to come out everyday and could not figure out what was wrong. The technician finally determined it was the condenser and it was going to cost me out of pocket $1,200.00. The reason was because the condenser had to be relocated in another area. I was very upset because that is why I have insurance, so I am covered for any emergencies. I then called American Home Shield to dispute the charges that were not covered. And no answers.
My breaker kept turning off due to this problem, so they said. We are now going on 4 weeks and still no answers from American Home Shield. They blame the local A/C company and the local A/C company blames American Home Loans. Here I am with my 2 kids and no A/C with temperature running 117 degrees. This really have me and my husband very upset. We have been paying this insurance company for years and now that I need their services, they are no help. All they have to say is "I'm sorry ma'am." I'm very disgusted with this company.
Reviewed Aug. 10, 2012
AHS diagnosed that our evaporator coil was in need of replacement on the second service call within a week. When they called to inform us that they had approved the repair, we were informed that it would cost us an additional $850 for fees that were not covered. I spoke to another AC company and specifically went over the additional fees. He said they are false fees the contractor has made up in order to make some money off the repair. AHS said they are not responsible for what their subs charge on additional items. I asked that my claim be re-assigned to another company and they said that was not possible. I have been told by two contractors that the normal retail cost on this repair is $1,100-1,300. AHS has offered us a cash out for $333. We are taking it and cancelling our policy since the policy doesn't cover repairs like they want you to believe they will.
Reviewed Aug. 9, 2012
While I was away (six weeks), the fan blade broke, motor burnt out, freon line was cut, and whole a/c bounced off of the pad. AHS sent out South Belt and AHS was told that my a/c was dirty and not maintained properly and that is why this happened. Well, AHS refused to replace/repair. Second opinion by Brown A/C said Southbelt diagnosis was totally wrong. Lesson here is get a second opinion. Fortunately, I saved all of my invoices from previous years' service calls.
Reviewed Aug. 9, 2012
This is just today's experience. I also have a claim that they won't pay from last month that I am in dispute with them about. I've been a customer for 10+ years. The last time AHS authorized the water heater replacement it was resolved and installed in one day. Something terrible has happened to this company which has put them into the ditch. I have been without hot water for 4 days. Not wanting to sound like a wimp with no hot water when there are people who have no clean water, let alone hot, the point is I was patient with them.
I was trying to ensure communication was happening between the plumbing company and AHS. I tried to escalate nicely. They said that there is a delay between the time the technician information about the repair is keyed into the website and when it is picked up by the authorization department is 24-48 hours. I said, "Well your website says nothing about a 24 to 48 hour delay." The CSR told me that it doesn’t have anything to do with me. I went a little crazy because if my repair authorization is delayed by 24 to 48 hours more, as I've been waiting for hot water going on 4 days, it does affect me!
The plumbing company was working with me to get the information that AHS said they needed. They said AHS won't take a fax, they won't take it via email, the CSR at the plumbing company said they can't tie up their lines for (multiple) 40 minute wait times to speak with someone at AHS. I escalated to a supervisor but she said she doesn't do authorization, that's another department. So I said, well I am talking to the wrong person then, give me Authorizations, and she said I was not allowed to talk to them. I said I'm not getting of this phone until you tell me I am authorized and scheduled for an install tomorrow. She couldn't guarantee it, but the end of the call she said "he" is keying it into the computer now. I said who is "he"? She said the technician. I said the technician is probably out installing someone else's water heater right now. Do you mean the rep from the plumbing company Ellie?
I finally let her off the phone but only if she called me back with a status in one hour. After I kept on ** she agreed to. We'll see if that happens. I said today is Thursday; I placed the service call on Monday. If you don't take care of this today, the install won't happen until maybe next Monday. Don’t you think a 1 week turnaround is unacceptable let alone the 4 day fiasco I've been put through?
It's unbelievable and you know you have to wonder what happened to cause AHS to put their people through this they can't be happily taking the brunt of the grief. The sad thing is that they said they were switching to a new system. If the install or conversion is going that badly, maybe it's time for new technologists. Oh wait, now that makes sense, they are probably getting that from overseas. Ugh, horrible, horrible experience. I hate to have to get so nasty for anyone to listen. I am going to look for a new company. I just can't accept this. I paid my yearly bill (and subsequent increases) in full for 10 years for this? It's so sad to see these once good companies go to the crapper.
Reviewed Aug. 9, 2012
American Home Shield is a scam, they will do everything they can to deny claims. You never see a contract for a month after signing up for the service, then they try to refer to it as if you are psychic. I filed a claim to have my HVAC system repaired. The claim was denied. They claimed I should have known there was a problem prior to my coverage even though I had a receipt from getting my system cleaned just a few months prior to my service with AHS which stated that everything was perfect and working fine. They sent a second tech out who clearly told them there was no way of knowing when the problem occurred with my unit. I stood there and heard him tell them that. They then called me 5 minutes later and said the tech told them the problem was preexisting. They are liars and their service sucks!
Reviewed Aug. 9, 2012
Our home warranty states that it covers wear and tear as well as breakdown. The service man said that the rail to the refrigerator ice-maker was not covered. I called to verify as this would be a wear and tear item. They said that shelves were not covered. I explained it was part of the ice-maker and asked where it is stated in my policy. They were rude and said that it was in there, but would not elaborate and got smart with me.
Reviewed Aug. 7, 2012
I have had AHS several years and each year I think I will cancel. I've had too many disappointing experiences. In May 2012, I called for general maintenance service on my central AC/heating unit, which is over 30 years old. I figured it needed some freon. The actual temperature was not matching what the thermostat was set on. They sent a company from out of town (nobody is ever local!) and the unit got an A-OK, no freon needed, etc., although I didn't see them check it. In fact, I'm not sure they did anything. Over this past hotter-than-usual summer, I would set the temp at 76-78 (trying to be conservative) and the temp would show 80 or above. I called AHS a couple more times during the summer for a follow-up service call and there was always a message regarding "higher-than-usual" volume of calls or the telephone system was down, etc., and I would just not follow through with my complaint.
Today, August 7, 2012, I returned home at 4 pm to experience extremely hot air being blown from vents and the thermostat temp was at 90 (it couldn't go any higher) and it felt like a sauna in the house! I immediately cut the AC off. The fan was working, but the unit was not! I called AHS and went through the regular menu only to lose the connection. I went online to find the company's telephone number who had come before, thinking I would call them direct and knowing how long sometimes it takes for a service call to materialize. That company was not an AHS provider (they said that). Then, I called AHS again and surprisingly reached a live person. She informed me that their computers were down and as soon as they were up again, the service call would be reported. When I inquired as to how long that might be, she said she had no idea. I think this time will do the trick for me with a cancellation of my policy - as soon as their computers are "up again"!
Reviewed Aug. 7, 2012
I called for service on my A/C not cooling on Friday. I received a call 3 days later, Monday, to schedule an appointment. The service company, Joe Cool, showed up on Tuesday afternoon and after 10 minutes, we were advised that the system was old and there was nothing he could do since we did not have maintenance with AHS. I advised that we have maintenance, but he asked for his fee of $60.00 and left. We had another A/C company come out and paid for them to clean the system and now it is working very well. I called AHS. Customer service also advised me that we didn't have the maintenance on our policy. However, when I canceled the policy, that representative asked why Joe Cool didn't clean the system since we had the maintenance coverage. I advised that Joe Cool and their customer service rep advised me that we didn't have that coverage.
I was advised that the full amount of the policy would be refunded and also the $60.00 service fee. However, we haven't seen either yet! I spent over 2 hours on the telephone waiting to speak to a supervisor with no satisfaction.
Reviewed Aug. 7, 2012
My A/C went out on a Thursday, July 26, 2012. I called the American Home Shield that Friday, July 27, 2012, and the technician called me on Friday evening. I tried to make contact with the company before 5 pm and they never answered. I had 2 numbers, no one answered. On Monday, they called and advised they were coming out on Tuesday between 1-5 pm. Instead, they showed up at 11 pm. The technician advised that the coils were leaking anti-freeze. On Tuesday, the technician advised that he will call the company and advise them.
On Wednesday, I did not hear from them. I called them and they told me to that I had to agree to uncovered charges of $475 to modify the drain after putting on the leaking coils part. I called in an independent contractor and they said that he is only going to put in PVC values that cost under $30, call the news station on them. Well on the day the part came in, they said they would not be able to do the job. I talked directly to the technician after repeatedly calling the company and no one was in the office for days.
When I said I needed to make an appointment for service, they answered and said, "sorry I need to know the status on an existing problem." The price changed. The technician advised that the price was now $595 because the system needs to be cleaned. This is the same technician that said that the previous work on the air conditioner was because the air-conditioner was run too cold. He put some anti-freeze in it and said that it cracked or did something. Within less than a month, the air stopped working again, same problem. I told him, "I am tired of hearing about anti-freeze," he needs to fix the problem. He told the company that the A/C had not been cleaned, it was dirty on the inside and the outside. It needed to be cleaned at least once a year. I told them, "Do not let this man come out again. He does not have a company, no one is there." Did the technician clean the air conditioner or do I need to have someone come out to clean it since it has not been cleaned this year? He charged me $120 for a cleaning.
He hesitated to put me on the books for service. He said people had been waiting for weeks to get their A/C serviced. I advised him that I take Methotrexate, I am sick to my stomach with this mess, I am hot and dehydrated. I had to go to a hotel because the city had a heat alert of 103-109 temperatures and I could not stay in my house because I could not breathe. I asked the company to pay for the charges and they advised that they could only pay for $125. The technician then scheduled me for Saturday at about 9 am. He came but advised me that he needed my debit card number before he got started. Lord, the air is running. It took a whole day for the air to circulate throughout the house. It is still not cooling in one of the bedroom adequately.
These are strange uncovered charges, $475.00 or $575.00 They are really getting over. I asked the representative, "if my A/C were to break, would I get a new one?" She said yes. I think she is lying.
Reviewed Aug. 6, 2012
I have had two major events at my home that should have been covered by AHS. First, the jacuzzi on the third floor failed and did over $16,000 worth of damage to my home. AHS didn't fix anything and sent two individuals to my home to inspect the damages. They fixed nothing. They charged me $60 for a service call, and they could hardly spell their own names. USAA ended up covering the whole thing.
Second, my septic tank pump failed and AHS again was inept. They tried to schedule an inspection for more than a week later. Remember, raw sewage is backing up into my home real-time. This one I paid for directly to Aquia Stafford Area Plumbing, Inc. and provided a copy of the invoice to Mr. Zachary **, AHS customer service associate on multiple occasions; still nothing.
This past weekend, ** stated that he had never received my invoice. I am a retired colonel and a true believer in audit-trails; like the one I have established with Zachary **. These folks are crooks; yes, I said it! Between me and the Veterans Administration, who guaranteed my loan, ** and I are going to eventually get to be real good friends.
Reviewed Aug. 6, 2012
Our air-conditioner went out so we contacted AHS. They sent out a tech from Comfort Air, who said that we needed a new condenser unit. We waited for over two weeks, with heat index daily at over 105 degrees - still, no air-conditioning. I contacted AHS to find out what our options were. We were told that we could cash out and have another licensed company do the work. Less than 24 hours later, we had air-conditioning. A whole new condenser unit was not needed - all that was needed was a new compressor. As per AHS instructions, we sent a completed invoice to AHS and they have replied that the invoice is not acceptable, even though it contains all the information required by AHS. By the way, a compressor is less expensive than a whole condenser unit! This company is a disgrace in all categories!
Reviewed Aug. 6, 2012
I called at 8:30 pm and reported that our AC was not cooling. We put in a request for emergency since it would be 106 the next day. We got an email around 8 am next morning which provided the name of the contractor and noted that they would call. We did not hear from the contractor. I called around 9:30 am and they said the service truck would call when they’re an hour out. I asked for a block of time since my wife and kids could not stay in the home. The contractor said they would call back. They did not. I called again around 11:00 and asked the same. I got the same response and there’s no call back. I called again around 3 - same thing. I called AHS and after waiting 20+ minutes to talk to someone, they called the contractor and I was told they would be there in one hour.
My wife waited and it’s a no-show. It’s the same thing around 6. My wife waited and it’s another no-show. Finally, we got a call at 9:30 and the service truck was sitting in front of the house. I called my wife at the hotel and she was ready for bed and was not going over there. I thought I would get a call first thing the next morning. I never heard from the contractor or AHS. I called a repair service at 8:30 am and they were at my house by 10:30 and fixed the AC in about 20 minutes. I called AHS and cancelled my service. I went through this same thing with a microwave about a year ago. I knew better to sign up with this company.
Reviewed Aug. 3, 2012
The policy was bought by the seller. We moved in 45 days ago. We had an issue with the high heat with the AC. They sent a repairman 2 days after we filed a claim. 4 days later, the same issues persist. It took 3 days to get a repairman this time, with 100-degree weather all that time, only to find out that the first repair was not done correctly. They then said it needs fixing, but they are not responsible because it was installed wrong years ago. If they are not responsible, what is this for?
Reviewed Aug. 3, 2012
I contacted American Home Shield in April 2012 upon my insurance company's request after a contractor came out to investigate a distinct odor in my home which smelled like mildew. AHS started the work order and scheduled a technician to come out to take a look at the problem. According to this technician, condensation was building up causing mold due to the need for repairs or replacement of the ducts. However, because of the way that my home was originally built, access to the duct work for repairs or replacement can only be achieved by removing sheetrock and floor paneling, which is a costly job.
Because of the extent of the repairs, AHS requested a second technician come out to take a look at the duct work. I allowed him to investigate the appliances without informing him of previous diagnosis. He removed one of the vent covers behind which he found quite a bit of dust. He had a flashlight that he used to look into the some of the returns. He confirmed that there were traces of mold in some of the returns. Once he completed his inspection, I asked if he thought it would be okay to run the air conditioner. He said that he didn't see why it would be a hazard. I, then, told him about the previous diagnosis. His reply was that he was not equipped with the proper equipment to inspect the inside of the duct work.
My question is, "what was the point in him coming out?" If AHS sent him out to get a second opinion on the first diagnosis, if for nothing else, the technician should have been prepared to look at the duct work. AHS allows customers to dispute; however, since they took it upon themselves to request a second opinion, I lost my right to dispute. The agent wouldn't even let me talk to a supervisor, just kept reiterating the company policy. I am ** and an extremely dissatisfied customer. In the meantime, in the midst of 100 degree weather, I am unable to utilize my air conditioner because of the fear of the hazard it can be to my family and pets.
Reviewed Aug. 2, 2012
My Rheem water heater started leaking out the top of one of the pipe fittings. I called AHS and they sent a tech from Air Pro. He called it in, AHS will replace the heater and my portion is just over $400.00, that includes a $120.00 permit, strap, new fittings and a few other things. Is a permit necessary? In Vegas, one gets jacked for all kinds of "permits" so I'm skeptical. Yes it was leaking and yes they are replacing it, and I take it that this $400.00+ is some kind of a hidden deductible? I'm a disabled veteran so me working on it isn't going to happen.
Reviewed Aug. 2, 2012
Warning, never do business with this company. Our air conditioner died. Yeah, it's August and it's hot but I have a home warranty for the past 4 years through American Home Shield that covers the replacement when something is irreparable. Yeah for me, right? Wrong! They are refusing to honor our contract because the technician deemed the damage to the compressor was caused by a power surge. The unit has blown 2 capacitors, a blown connector and a blown fan relay since March so it's had a history of electrical problems. Their contractors have just been replacing them instead of resolving the root cause. We've never had the same technician twice and rarely even the same contractor so there is zero continuity to the service. Now they are refusing to replace by HVAC unit. Unforgivable customer service to boot!
Reviewed Aug. 2, 2012
My master bathroom toilet and shower had a small leak that was causing water damage onto my living room ceiling. I called AHS and they immediately got a plumber out (great job). The toilet was fixed in minutes. The plumber tried to fix the shower, but said it was too corroded so he was going to get parts. He turned the water back on, without realizing that he had broken the pipe in the wall. Hoover Dam came running into my 1st floor ceiling, water pouring out my ceiling fan onto my brand new carpet, holes in my ceiling from the buckling of the dry wall due to all of the water. The plumber immediately called a restoration company to come start the clean up process as now my 1st floor was going to have major damage repair.
The plumber called AHS and they indicated that they won't do anything as this was a secondary problem. I have no idea who is supposed to fix this issue, but neither AHS nor the plumber wants to accept responsibility. The AHS authorization specialist was beyond rude when I called and refused to let me speak to a supervisor/manager. Obviously, I was highly upset when I called and her nasty and negative attitude didn't help. As I was hanging up with her (Darlene), she decided it would be in her best interest to call me a stupid **. I happened to hear this and confronted her about it. She said it was because I had just cussed her out. Of course I did not. She said it was all on tape so I encouraged her to get with her supervisor, grab that tape and call me back.
I logged a complaint on AHS's website requesting a call back. 4 hours later, still no call. I called AHS again, was on hold for over an hour to get someone live on the phone and guess who answered? Yep, Darlene. I had her on the speaker phone so I could have witnesses on her behavior. Once again, she was beyond nasty and refused to let me speak to someone else, then hung up on me. I am completely disgusted with the lack of responsibility, response and customer service from AHS in this despairing time for me, their customer. Never again will I utilize AHS and I will always give them a thumbs down!
Reviewed Aug. 1, 2012
I need assistance with a resolution for an ongoing service request from March 2012 - August 2012 for the repair of my oven. The service request was initiated in March 2012, AHS sent their contractor "Sears" to repair the oven. Sears determined there were too many things wrong with the oven and the technician called AHS from my home and recommended a replacement. AHS would not authorize the replacement but only to repair it. Part of the repairs was to replace the thermostat.
As of today, with the thermostat replaced from March, my oven is still not working. AHS has authorized Sears to repair my oven on several recalls since March trying to get my oven working properly. The last recall they came on 7/25/12 and noted I needed a new thermostat. Sears already replaced the thermostat in March and have not repaired my oven to our satisfaction. I called AHS to complain and let them know the thermostat has already been replaced and the oven still does not work and hasn't worked since my initial service request in March.
I spoke with a supervisor named Brian (AHS won't provide last names stating they are not required to) on 7/27/12 and he said he would contact Sears because he didn't show any record of the Sears technician calling in to AHS from the 7/25/12 service call and would call me back on 7/30/12 with a resolution. He never called me. I called AHS again today to complain that their supervisor (Brian) did not call me on 7/27/12 as promised to resolve this issue. I spoke with Allison in customer service and she said that she spoke to her supervisor named Tobias from their Memphis Call Center and that all they can do is send Sears out again to once again replace the thermostat and that the earliest Sears can come is August 15th. My oven is not working at all, I have no oven. I have been more than patient in that my oven has not worked correctly since March. We have paid our premiums and expect the services we paid for. Can you help?
Reviewed July 31, 2012
Our house was red tagged for gas leak since last Thursday. They said service will be provided by next Wednesday. There is an incredibly long wait/hold times and they have no ability to actually provide service timely.
Reviewed July 31, 2012
My water heater broke on July 14, 2012. Today is July 30 and still there's no hot water. I am waiting for a part that is need to fix my 12-year old water heater. I was told on July 31 and there have been 5 other times that I was told that the part would be available. I hope and pray that things go well for the sake of my family, including two toddlers. AHS could save money by having an answering machine at customer service that says, "We are very sorry. We understand how you feel and we appreciate your patience.", since that's all I hear when I call, but there's no action. Then maybe they could help the people that depend on them .This should be against the law and I plan to find out if it is.
Reviewed July 30, 2012
I called American Home Shield to unstop my washer drain that was backing up when used. The plumber (will fix it) said they had to call AHS because he would have to go on the roof to clean out the drain which he cannot do without authorization from the rip off co. (AHS). They denied my claim and I was still charged $75 for nothing. They did not even offer to try and clean it out from the inside. They are truly a rip off company. I am cancelling them today.
Reviewed July 30, 2012
I paid for my AHS plan and an additional $169 for pm on my dual air conditioners and thermostats in April of 2012. I have not heard or seen from anybody about doing the work. Every time I email or call them, I either get told to call another number "because that's not their department" and I can't get my money back. I called in a pool repair, because it is also covered and spent the money out of my own pocket to have it fixed because I couldn't afford to keep my pump down. I wish they would quit giving me the runaround and either service the A/Cs or refund my money. I know personally it does not take four months to get to a service I've already paid for.
Reviewed July 29, 2012
The first instance, I called for service on a cooktop that had a defective igniter. The service tech informed us the part was no longer available. AHS came back with a proposal to settle the claim for $280, a fraction of the unit’s replacement cost, or they could repair the item but the cooktop would have to go to repair depot and we would be without the unit for six weeks! This is totally absurd. The second instance, I called for service on a refrigerator that had a broken ice cube maker. The service guy came out. We paid the deductible and then he informed us we need a new icemaker. AHS then called us to inform us the icemaker was not covered by the policy. Nice!
Since when is an icemaker not part of the refrigerator? Anyway, a new unit installed at my cost would be an additional $380. Totally outrageous! I have finally learned my lesson and will not do business with this rip off company again and I would highly recommend others to heed my warning. This company is a rip off. I am trying to cancel my policies and get some of my money back with no success so far 1 hour on hold with customer service, and was then disconnected. Nice!
Reviewed July 27, 2012
I have been without air conditioning since May 2012. AHS has sent three contractors out, and it has cost me $150 service fees and $510 for a coil replacement. The first contractor, Bailey's Appliance & Air, came out twice and was supposed to come back for an emergency call on a Sunday due to the high temperature. They claimed that AHS was never told that they would make an emergency call on a Sunday. My house never cooled off, and the thermostat never shut off. The second company, Oxford Heating and Air, came out about five times.
About four times, the same tech came out; and I eventually learned that he was fired due to incompetency. They added Freon several times and changed the coil. The system never shut off, and the house never cooled off. They replaced my programmable thermostat with a non-programmable one. I had to contact AHS several times about this, in addition to the lack of progress with the repair. The company finally came out and replaced the thermostat with the correct one. The third company came out last week and stated that I needed a compressor. They told me that my system was left open and exposed to the elements. They emailed AHS about this, and AHS ordered the compressor and sent it to the wrong city.
I was contacted on Monday that the compressor would be in on Wednesday. No one contacted me, so I called Appliance Comfort and was told that they never told AHS that and that AHS had sent it to the wrong city. I am still waiting and have been informed that it could be two weeks before I get my compressor. Never again will I deal with AHS once I get my air conditioner fixed. They don't care. It takes forever for them to answer the phone. The rate and service fee go up without adequate notification. According to the supervisors whom I have talked to, there is no hope of reimbursement. I have written two letters and sent two emails, and no one calls. If I don't follow up with the contractors, I won't know what's not going on. They're useless and uncaring.
Reviewed July 27, 2012
I rent my home, and my landlord is a member of American home Shield for my home. On July 17, 2012, the refrigerator went out. I contacted my landlord about this issue and she said that she would contact AHS to have someone come out to repair. ARRQ Appliance contacted me on July 18th, 2012 and said that they will be out on July 19th, 2012 between 8 am and 11 am. The tech arrived on time. He drove up in an unlabeled vehicle. He was pleasant to a point but kept saying he was busy and appeared to be rushing through trying to fix it. The condenser fan motor was not running, and it appeared that was the problem. The tech left and told me that someone would call me back with an ETA of the part.
About 4 hours had passed, with no update. I called the company just to find out an ETA so I could plan to be home when he came back. When I asked if the tech had ordered the part or if they had it in stock, the receptionist was rude with her answer, "You have to be patient and give us time. We are very busy." I replied that I just wanted an update. I did not need the attitude. All she had to say was that, "We are working on it and will get back to you." She called me back about an hour later and said that they had the part and would be back tomorrow, still with an attitude. The tech came back the next morning (7/20/2012) with the part. He installed the part and left right after without checking to see if was working properly. I went to check my refrigerator a couple of hours later and it was not working again. I called AHS to report the issue and was told that ARRQ will not be able to return until 7/25/2012. Mind you that I have been without a refrigerator for a week now.
On 7/25/2012, the tech from ARRQ arrived at my home around 10 am. I opened the door and he walked in as if he owned my home. He went to the fridge and started working on it. He discovered that the fan motor he replaced was not working. He started looking for other causes that might be going on with the unit. He told me that he thinks that a control board was bad and that he would have to order one. He started picking up his tools getting ready to leave. I asked the tech if he could check if he could order the part and how long it would take to get it. (This is where it got ugly.) He said that he would not do that. He said that he would order the part when he gets home and that I should not tell him how to run his business. I told him I needed to know how long it would be before he will get the part. He said 4 to 7 days. I told hid him that that was unacceptable, that if he could call the parts warehouse or his office to see if it could be expedited. Again, he said, "Don't tell me how to do my business. I will get it when I can." I said that I cannot be without a refrigerator for another week and asked again if he could order the part here on site. He said again, "This is my business and don't tell me how to run it."
I got on the phone at that point and tried to call AHS. He then said this is what is going to happen. He pushed my fridge back up against the wall and left without telling me anymore. (I did feel for my safety at this point. He was that angry.) I was so upset I had my roommate contact AHS. She also called ARRQ to find out what happened and the receptionist right off the bat started yelling at her saying that I was wrong, that they were not going to come back out to service the equipment. She had told AMS what had happened and made a complaint against ARRQ and asked to have another company to come out. While she was talking to AHS, the agent told her that a message came up from ARRQ that they refuse to go back to my home.
(Now to step back a little.) I am a senior technical advisor for Coca-Cola, have worked for them for 19 years, and have been working with customers for over 25 years. My roommate is in the banking industry for over 20 years. We have never been so taken aback with this company in how they handled our issue. There was no empathy or sense of urgency with this company. It seemed they worked on quantity, not quality. If I had treated my customers as ARRQ treated me, I would have been fired on the spot. This company has no customer service skills whatsoever. I feel for their next customer. If they keep on with this practice, they will not be in business very long.
In conclusion, I will not allow ARRQ to come to my house to do any repairs. I feel for the next customer that they service. Since then, I have had another appliance company come out that AHS sent out, have diagnosed the problem, and will be back with the parts on 7/27/2012. They told me that the part installed was not the right part that ARRQ installed. They also told me of negative issues that they heard of from other ARRQ customers.
Reviewed July 27, 2012
I bought coverage from American Home Shield (AHS) while selling home. Inspections revealed leaking coils. AHS sent out ARS who after five visits insisted there were no leaks in the coils while two independent contractors found leaks. Finally, AHS sent out Pro Tech who found the leaks. According to our contract, our AC is covered and so are the leaking coils. AHS is asking us to pay $1,800 towards these covered repairs. The sale of our house is dependent on replacing these coils. We bought a home warranty from American Home Shield and they are not honoring the contract and insisting that we pay $1,800 for covered repairs.
Reviewed July 26, 2012
We needed a new toilet. I called in a repair order to AHS. A-Z Remodeling and Plumbing is who they contracted out for plumbing issues. A-Z Plumbing replaced our elongated toilet bowl with a round toilet bowl. A-Z went to Home Depot and purchased the smallest, cheapest toilet they have at Home Depot. The toilet is a kiddy/training toilet, that's how small it is and this is no exaggeration. To me, the toilet is substandard and insufficient for anyone's home, so I contacted AHS to tell them that this toilet is just not right and I'm not satisfied with it. This was 2 days after it was installed.
They are telling me that they are only required to replace with a "builder's standard" toilet and both AHS and A-Z Remodeling and Plumbing are telling me and my husband that an elongated toilet is not considered a "builder's standard" toilet. This builder's standard thing is something I will be researching and looking into for myself. Bottom line, I won't be "made whole" and looks like I'll be buying my own elongated toilet bowl and paying another plumber to remove the one that A-Z installed. So not only should you beware of AHS, but also the companies that they contract out to come to your home to do the work.
Reviewed July 25, 2012
Central air went out on Tuesday evening. I called AHS and someone came out on Wednesday morning! AHS said, "Oh, this is still three days under warranty from last year's problem so this is not our problem!" I told them my very unconscionable living situation with the heat and that our pet dog had just come home from pet hospital from having a stroke! "Sorry, that is your problem," said AHS. "We do not care about pets!"
Reviewed July 25, 2012
I wish I had read these reviews before we bought our house. I would have asked the sellers to just give us the $406 that they paid AHS. The warranty is apparently worthless because anything can be classified as not normal wear and tear. What the heck is "normal wear and tear?" We got a second opinion for a declined plumbing claim and AHS went with the first opinion anyway (the second opinion was very different). So, we are out $120 and still have a broken toilet. The 3 plumbers that I saw today all said that AHS is notorious for denying payment. If everyone is aware of this, why are they still in business?
Reviewed July 24, 2012
I called AHS when my AC was not working. They sent a rep who told me my coil was going out and it needed to be replaced. My unit is 12 years old and has run perfectly until now. AHS declared that my problem was a mfg. defect and refused to have it fixed. How can something run perfectly for 12 years and have a mfr. defect? I have wasted time and money with AHS. I highly recommend that you stay far away from AHS. That was $75 wasted. I called them when I had a plumbing "stoppage" and they refused to have it fixed because the rep said he would have to get on the roof to run a roto-rooter to clear the blockage, $75 wasted. AHS is a scam.
Reviewed July 24, 2012
This is the worst customer service I've ever encountered. Long story short, our water heater broke 2 weeks ago and still hasn't been fixed. We were told AHS will cover the heater, but the contracting company will have to do expensive retrofitting to "bring it up to code". I have called 10 separate times asking about how much it will cost us and what our options are. In every call, I was promised someone would get back to me that afternoon. I have yet to receive a call back. The one time I was able to speak to a supervisor, he was absolutely unsympathetic and said there was nothing he could do for me. We finally called in a well-reputed local company (Hiller) and were told that the "bring it up to code" thing was **. We have decided to have the heater replaced by Hiller. Now, we will see if we ever actually get this fabled "cash out" from AHS. I'm not holding my breath.
Reviewed July 23, 2012
Resnick Plumbing Philadelphia, PA - AHS scheduled Resnick Plumbing to contact me regarding a water faucet and D/W line leak. We scheduled the appointment for July 23 between 12 and 4PM with a 30-minute phone call to let me know they were on their way. Resnick never called, never came and never answered their phone when I tried to reach them. I do not recommend using them, they are not responsive. I have been on the phone twice today trying to reach AHS to reschedule another plumber and held on twice for more than 15 minutes. I will try to reach them via the PC.
Reviewed July 23, 2012
My AC gave up on 7/18/2012, until today, 7/24/2012, I can’t get help. I’ve been paying my dues every month like everybody. Now, my AC is broken since last Wednesday, 7/18/2012 and today is Monday, 7/24/2012. I’m still asking them to help me and fix my AC, very hard! It’s very, very hard to get help from this company. I will not recommend them to anybody. The weather here where I live has been 100 degrees, very hot. I’m not happy with the company. I called many times but what I got was voice mail, no return call. I’m sick of it.
Reviewed July 20, 2012
I bought my home in October 2010. I had been highly encouraged to use this service due to the fact that my house was a few years old and possibly full of surprises. In December, my water heater broke. It took 3 service calls to determine that it was broken and needed to be replaced. I had to pay $60 for the service call, $180 for the permit to replace the heater, plus another $60 to dispose of the old heater.
Then, in May, my air con seemed like it was not working properly. So, I requested a service call. The technician was flustered and in a hurry. He only checked the inside unit and checked the temperature on the air vents then told me that it was working fine. My house has been so hot since, so I called 2 weeks ago again for a service call on my air con. This technician was thorough. He checked the inside and outside unit. He put some Freon in the unit and determined that the compressor was broken and he would order the part for me. I received a call from AHS a week and a half later informing me that the part was not covered due to the fact that we did not service the unit outside.
I am 51 years old, and I have owned many houses in my life. I have never heard of having to provide maintenance to my appliances. I ordered for service, if they were not working correctly. When the first technician came out, he never even checked the outside unit to at least inform me that it needed service or to offer to service it for me. So now, I have to replace the part myself on top of all the monthly charges made on my credit card since November 2010. Why do we have a service such as this one who is supposed to inform us if we need to do some maintenance or upkeeping or whatever the appliance needs. That is what we are paying for or at least I thought - guidance and service.
Well, I called the company to talk to a supervisor, and once I finished telling him about my situation, he started telling me that it was my fault that I did not maintain my air conditioning unit and it was not covered by their service. I started telling him how dissatisfied I was, and he had such a cocky attitude with me and told me that there was nothing he could do for me. I asked to speak with his supervisor, and he told me that I would be called back within 48 hours. When the supervisor called me back, I received total apathy to what I was saying. I was so livid at this point that I told her that I was going to have to cancel my membership with them due to the lack of cooperation on this matter. She told me that she would transfer me to the appropriate department. Wow! Total apathy! Apparently, they have enough people who pay their monthly fees and they don't need people with broken appliances.
Whatever happened to the old saying, "The customer is always right"? I was shocked at their uncaring attitude. So, needless to say, I canceled my membership with AHS. Why pay them monthly, the $60 service fee plus the repairs? It doesn't make any sense to me anymore. I'm so disappointed that I placed my money and my trust on such an apathetic company. What a waste of money!
Reviewed July 19, 2012
American Home Shield is still stalling. We're one month with no A/C. We have had coverage through AHS, since we purchased our home 2 and a half years ago. Once or twice a year, our downstairs unit would go out because of the circuit board and sometimes fan. This is a major and costly repair, especially considering the units are close to 20 years old and the same thing kept happening. Each time, we were without air for about 2 weeks. We live in the South, where temps and humidity are unbearable.
This time, it happened again on June 24. It took almost a week to find a tech to come out. Everyday, my husband and I called; and everyday, we're told something different. The HVAC tech suggested unit replacement, and most reps fought that and insisted on another pointless repair. One finally seemed to notice and used common sense and sent us to the "authorization department." That was about 2 weeks ago.
Ever since then, we have been told everything from "You will get a new unit, no problem." to "You're lucky we are going to cover the repair." We have been stuck dealing with low-level reps, whose job is to say "no, no, no." Our upstairs unit has been down for a week, and we finally got one rep to agree to "outside authorization." We had trouble finding a company to do work with the promise of payment from AHS. I was told more than once that AHS has owed these HVAC companies money for years. I was not about to let them reimburse me. We paid CIS Mechanical $70 to diagnose the upstairs unit, and he did a quick fix to hold us over until repair. Now, AHS said we have to pay for that. Some reps said we have to be reimbursed; others told us they could be billed. We really don't know. They won't return our calls now.
We spent hours a day on hold with this company, and we were not given supervisor's or corporate info to try and get anything done. We are afraid they are just waiting it out and will drop our contract. And there we are. We are completely stuck. We still have not been given an answer about replacing the unit, and we still have no one to even look at the second unit. I have contacted local news stations in hopes they can get something done. I have filed a complaint with the BBB, and I guess our next step, though we don't have the time or money, is an attorney.
Reviewed July 19, 2012
I had my A/C unit fail during a 100-degree week in Chicago. I called AHS and like everyone else, I was on hold for 20 minutes. I waited. When they finally answered, I said my A/C unit is not working. They looked up the available contractors in my area. I had one. Long story short, they said to have the work done and send in the invoice for payment. Guess what? They declined the payment to me because I didn't have my contractor wait on the phone for 40 minutes like I did to have this job authorized. I'm on the phone right now for 38 minutes and 19 seconds and I am being transferred for the third time. What a joke.
Reviewed July 19, 2012
Three and a half years ago, my air-conditioner went out. The tech recommended replacing it. I was told they would have to replace the inside heat pump and the outside unit so they are compatible with each other. Well, American Home Shield said, “No, we want to just repair it with new parts.” Then on June 13, 2012, my A/C’s pipes freeze up and the water in the basement from the heat pump went everywhere. They sent Energy Solutions from Delaware and the tech was acting like he didn't even want to be at my house. He put freon in my unit outside and said I may have a leak. Well, sure enough two weeks later my A/C breaks again. The same tech comes out and seals one leak and fills with freon again. Well, here we are again on 7/17/12 and the outside unit breaks. I called AHS and they said this is way too many complaints - the unit needs to be replaced.
The new tech/company was very nice and said he can't believe Energy Solutions didn't tell me all the problems with the unit. There is not just one leak - there are several. Plus the wires are shot and the whole unit outside has to be replaced. I thought, by law, you can't replace just one unit. You have to replace both so they are compatible with each other. I am waiting to hear from the warranty company. It better be good news. I have a class action suit (Lara ** vs. AHS) that the attorney wants me to submit because I was denied new units 3 and 1/2 years ago. I will fill that out and pray they replace both units.
Reviewed July 18, 2012
On the Thursday prior to Memorial Day, I emailed in a service request to AHS thinking the plumber could call and set up an appointment for the next week. I did not expect immediate service due to the holiday and my dripping shower could wait a few more days. I received confirmation of the request with the name of United Heating and Air on it. I waited Thursday and Friday for a call from UHA - nothing. So, on Friday, I called them thinking that since I was at work, maybe they called my home phone instead of the instructed cell phone number. The young lady who answered the phone asked for an order number, left me on hold, and then returned to tell me that someone would call me back that afternoon. Nothing. I waited most of the day on Saturday, got angry and got online and cancelled the request. Time got by me and a week later, I called this time (waited 37 minutes on the phone) and requested service. I was told by the gal what had happened and how I didn't want UHA to service me. I was sent a confirmation for another plumber.
Once again, a couple of days went by and nothing happened. I called this one and was told that they did not service my area and that AHS had been informed. AHS never informed me and I had been waiting. I got on the phone again (28-minute wait) and told that gal what happened and she said she'd take care of it. I received a confirmation and UHA once again had been assigned to me. This time I received a call from their rep and scheduled an appointment. But after telling the gal what happened the first time, she started screaming at me and telling me off. I told her I had a copy of the May confirmation printed out and would give it to the repairman to bring back to the office.
On June 11th, Mike the repairman came to my house to stop the drip. After going to Home Depot for parts and banging the crap out of the valve in my shower to the point where the cartridge was in a thousand pieces, he informed me the problem was fixed. That night I went to shower and the hot and cold had been reversed. I didn't call it in again because I was leaving on a cruise and couldn't arrange anyone to take care of meeting a repairman. When I returned on the 18th, I went to shower again and there was water spewing out of the handle of the shower in a steady spurt. Again, I called (another 24-minute wait) and the AHS rep was nice and informed me that I was reporting the problem within the "fix it for free" period. On June 19th, repairman Tommy came from UHA, changed the cartridge again, but pulled me into the bathroom to hear the leak in the wall. It appeared to me that repairman Mike's banging and clanging damaged something in the wall that caused the water to spew out and that Tommy got the spurting out to stop, but now it was spurting in.
He informed me that I'd need a leak specialist to locate the source. I asked him to shut the water off and said there was no need because the water was leaking in the wall and it would sink down to the slab and be absorbed. Now, I'm no plumber, but that sure didn't make much sense. I should've shut the water main off, but again I got side-tracked and was totally forgotten. By the next day repairman Chris showed up to locate the leak. It was in the shower valve right behind where repairman Mike had a party banging and clanging. Chris shut the water off inside the wall and said he had to order a valve and would return when the part came in to change it. But he announced I have major water damage (not covered by AHS) and he called a restoration service he knew (handy, huh?) that showed up on my door about 30 minutes after he left. Of course, the damage was $2500 and it would take 5 days to clean up.
Meanwhile, this time I did listen to my "little voices" and told him I'd think about it. No water damage was visible anywhere, so I decided not to allow this restoration company that wanted to start immediately to do anything. Again, the next day Chris returned, changed the valve, and all is working okay now. Once the wall was opened, there was no water damage, there’s no mold, and there’s a tiny bit of dampness that I dried out myself using fans. I left the wall open for a couple of days and used several fans to circulate air just to be on the safe side.
Usually, AHS calls for a follow-up to want to know how I would rate the service. There’s nothing this time, though. I was charged the initial $60 for Mike to screw everything up. I was not charged for Tommy's visit or Chris's two visits. I didn't expect to pay for Tommy's visit as he was fixing the reversal of hot and cold. But I figured AHS would call the new leak a new problem and I'd be charged for Chris's two visits. I wasn't and I thought to myself, “How nice.” Well, it's July 17 now and I got the bill for $60. I'm just going to pay it and get this behind me.
I have been a customer of AHS for over 10 years for three different residences. I have had to use them several times over the years and have never had any problems. But I have not used them in over 3 years until this incident. I was shocked that I got a recording and a huge wait when calling in. I used to always call in and got a person immediately. I always got follow-up calls and there was a pool of service people available for each specialty. Evidently, UHA is their only plumber in this area and they're 35 miles away from my home. I'd say AHS has gone to the dogs and it's time for a change. So, currently I'm shopping around for another home warranty company. And I'd advise others considering signing with AHS to keep shopping before committing. For existing customers, if you cancel, don't forget there will be a waiting period with the next warranty service that you will purchase and you might want to consider overlapping coverage for a couple of months.
Reviewed July 17, 2012
Water leakage in the master bathroom shower - I called AHS. They sent a plumber in October to fix the problem. Also, I paid additionally over $400 on that service call. Today, July 2012, I am having the same problem. I turned on the shower and water was flooding down the stairs. I requested service again. They sent ARS plumbing service on July 17, 2012. The plumber came out. I told him that I forgot to mention also that the toilet needs to be looked at because sometimes it continues to run and I have to shake the knob. The plumber said he will only fix the shower, so I asked him to leave.
He slammed my door in my face. I called AHS to schedule a new plumber from a different company to come out. They tell me, "No, it will be from the ARS plumbing company but a different person." So I said, "Let me speak to your supervisor." The customer service person named Andrew said that the supervisor will tell me the same thing. I was put on hold for 45 minutes and Andrew never returned to the phone. While on hold with the home phone, I called on my cellphone, spoke to KC out of Memphis. She put me on hold for 15 minutes. Then she came back, no upper management person. KC said that someone in management will have to contact me. So, I have a leaking shower with no scheduled service and I have been with AHS a long time. What am I paying you month to month for? Bad service contract and bad customer service. I will be sending a legal complaint.
Reviewed July 17, 2012
I called on July 10th because my A/C unit went out. It is now 7 days later and I still do not have a unit although this situation was considered an emergency. Instead of replacing the 16 years old unit and getting it over with, they are on the elusive search for a compressor to work on the old unit. I have tenants living without A/C in the Georgia heat for 7 days.
Reviewed July 13, 2012
I had a premium contract with AHS and when my air conditioner compressor went out, AHS and their local contractor stumbled around for a full week and did nothing while my family lived through 110+ degree temperatures with the AC unit out. I had been calling them daily to check status, and got nothing but robotic employees reading canned policy statements out of their manual. I finally got in touch with the local sales rep through my broker who purchased the warranty after six days and she found that AHS had still not ordered the part. It is still not fixed and likely won't be until Monday, 10 days with no AC in the middle of the hottest part of summer in Arizona. I would never do business with this company again. Absolutely stay away from American Home Shield.
Reviewed July 13, 2012
They sent A&P Electric to our house to fix our a/c unit. They came and said the drip pan needed replacing and would order it. We never heard back from the a/c company. When we called them 3 days later, they said they were waiting on approval from American Home Shield. After several calls, we finally got a "story" that our a/c was installed incorrectly. So they would not cover it but that it would cost $2,500 to repair. Our a/c unit was installed 10 years ago and our home inspection would have caught any incorrect installation. Crock, and $2,500 for a drip pan?! Really? No thanks, I'll contract a reputable a/c company. AHS is crooked and really sad customer service, 45-minute wait time just to get someone on the phone. Oh yea, and we got the same story. You can pay another $60 for a second opinion! Ha!
Reviewed July 12, 2012
I purchased a home a year ago and used American Home Shield. I purchased their most comprehensive (and expensive) coverage package, which was to cover everything from ceiling fans to pool heating and electric. In fact, they cover absolutely nothing. I have a ceiling fan dangling from the ceiling by wires. They had me pay the usual $60 to a repair person who said it was routine maintenance and would not cover. They told me for another $60, I could get a second opinion and maybe they would reconsider.
Needless to say, it was cheaper and faster for me to by my own new ceiling fan. I called about by pool heater. They said they found a nest next to some of the wires, which suggests pests may have damaged the wires. Since they do not cover pest damage, they would not cover. I then had a problem with my pool electric pump. They said that the wires were old and some of them went through a pipe. Apparently, they don't do pipes, so, of course, no coverage. I tried to look up my contract on the website, but the website appears to be administered by an 11-year old, because you only get an error message when you try to view your contract or click on any of the links that don't actually appear.
The service is just as bad. Every call begins with at least a 20 minute wait. When I asked why they don't cover what they say, I was told, "We just don't." I asked to speak to a supervisor. The customer service guy said he was the supervisor. When I continued asking questions, he said he would have his supervisor call me. Their contract is a complete sham.
Reviewed July 12, 2012
I had a technician out to do a tune up on our AC in June. He said that our unit was in bad shape and needed a lot of work. I said that we have a home warranty plan and we would go through them. I had a technician from All Right Heating and Cooling out a couple of days later. I told him what the first technician told me was wrong. This guy, Toby, looked confused. He said he would go look at the unit and see what he could find. He came back saying an inaccurate sized capacitor was installed. We had this capacitor installed two years ago, also by a contractor from AHS.
I spoke with a supervisor about this at AHS and was supposed to get a reimbursement check for this latest visit since it was incorrectly installed. I was told to expect it within 14-21 days. It will be 21 days tomorrow and it has not yet been processed. They can't tell me when I will receive it. On a side note, I have spoken with AC technicians who will not work with AHS because they are slow in reimbursing them.
Anyhow, after having the capacitor replaced, I was told by Toby that our house should start cooling off. It has not. Our AC runs all day just to maintain the current temperature of 80, even though I have been told in 95 degree weather, it should be able to cool down no problem to 75 degrees. I called AHS to have them come back out to look at my AC. This time, he said that there is not enough Freon. This is one week after being told by a Nate, certified technician, that it was overcharged. Most likely now my AC is overcharged. My AC is not cooling down. I fear our AC is completely going out and having to wait, I don't know how long to have it fixed.
Reviewed July 12, 2012
I was sent a flyer about the warranty. General coverage was stated, but no specifics. I paid in advance. Meanwhile, I went to their website to discover more about coverage. The item I was worried about was specifically stated that it was covered. However, when the actual policy came, I later found out that the item I was most interested in was listed as not covered. Sure enough, several months later, that system did in fact fail, and AHS would not authorize its repair. I immediately rechecked their website, and there it was again, listed as a covered part. So, how many of you out there have issues where the AHS promotional material says or implies that something is covered, only to find at claim time, the policy says it is not? If this situation fits your circumstance, reply to my email. I may have a remedy.
Reviewed July 12, 2012
After having AHS for 9 years, and making monthly payments, my AC unit stopped working. I called for service. It took 1-1/2 days to get someone to my house. The service tech said the unit had taken a power surge and called AHS. AHS called me right back and told me they would not pay for the repairs due to the cause being a power surge. I have a SurgeGuard on my house from the electric company, which I pay a rental fee for each month. This SurgeGuard showed that there was no power surge into my house. I had no damage to any other items in my house. I explained this to the AHS person on the phone. She became rude and acted like I was annoying her. She kept stating they would not cover the damage. She kept offering to send out another company to re-assess the unit for another $75 charge. I will be looking into joining the class action lawsuits against AHS. They can kiss this contract good-bye.
Reviewed July 11, 2012
We have had multiple service calls on an A/C unit. All they do is band aid the problem - adding freon every month when it should only need to be done yearly, if at all. As long as they get it going, even if it's for a few weeks, they call it fixed and just wait for your next claim. Meanwhile, you get charged yet another service fee. I have talked to others who said they are a scam and that they never replace anything! Put your money in reserve, don't give it to a company who is dishonest and unethical!
Reviewed July 10, 2012
I called for service. The plumber came and refused to do the work and Home Shield billed me for the service call, $100. They never fixed anything.
Reviewed July 10, 2012
Central air repair/replacement issue - On 5/28/12, I called American Home Shield for an emergency repair to a central air conditioning unit that was dripping through my bedroom ceiling from the attic. The technician stated the coil was rusted and had to be replaced and not repaired. He ordered the part and stated it would take about 7 days for delivery of the part.
It is now day 44 and still not repaired. AHS has stated there is no ETD (Estimated Time of Delivery) for the part since the unit is no longer manufactured and needed to be custom built. They said I could wait (indefinitely) for the part or take a "buyout", which means they pay me what they would pay the contractor and I find my own repair person. If there is no other manufacturer that can provide this part, and no date for delivery, then I would be back where I started and worse, would have to get a new unit at my expense.
Due to the record-breaking heat waves and storms here in NJ, this is a health situation. I am 67 years old, have a heart condition, have asthma, and have sleep apnea. I do animal rescue and my dogs are suffering from the heat also. AHS has authorized $100 toward a fan and I have purchased 2 tower fans for my pets. Since I am only getting a runaround from the technician, manufacturer, etc., about repairing this unit, the only other option is to replace it. I am going in for major surgery on August 7th and will be coming home to recuperate… with no air in my upstairs unit. Please help!
Reviewed July 7, 2012
I have been without a washer and dryer for 10 weeks; I contacted AHS for service the first of May. I have been through 2 service repair representatives and have had over five home visits that have resulted in a new part and/or repair needed after each visit. I was also assigned an AHS service representative as liaison who in the beginning was somewhat helpful; however, her follow-up and communication skills are lacking significantly. As of yesterday, 06 July12, I have not received a follow-up call and/or a phone call from a manager or any one in a corporate position at AHS.
My washer and dryer are still broken, and I am on Weekend 10 of spending an average of $40 at the laundromat (there are 4 adults in my household). The irony to this all is that AHS has debited my account 2 times for their monthly payments over this 10-week ordeal. However, they have not fulfilled their end of our contract. Yesterday, when I called and tried to speak with a manager, I was told they were offering to reimburse my $75 towards a new washer and dryer. I was very confused - $75? I have paid almost $100 in AHS monthly fees and almost $400 in 10 weeks in laundromat visits.
Nonetheless, my spouse and I are both in the military. So we have had to miss valuable time at work so that the repair person could assess our washer/dryer issues. All this for $75 towards replacing a 5-year-old GE top-of-the-line washer/dryer? I feel insulted by the jester! Prior to this incident, I have had to utilize AHS only a handful of times in a 10-year period. Yes, I have been a very loyal customer for 10 years. My experiences before were taken care of with little to no frustration; however, they have made up for their 10 years of little to no frustration with this incident and the lack of any type of customer service, empathy, sympathy or integrity.
Reviewed July 6, 2012
We had a narrow crack in our cast iron drain pipe in a closet under the bathroom. It was eye-level to waist-level long. We can't use our bathroom. The crack is accessible since we had a restorer strip the area of all plaster and lathe and clean the area. This crack is covered by the pipe coverage but states that should any repair be obstructed by cement, they give a $500 payout. This is not. However, since they said there could be a chance of causing a crack in the area above when they repair the pipe, they will give us $500 flat fee and not pay to fix the visible and accessible pipe. The cracked area is between two bells so there is less likelihood of the crack happening so there is no reason not to pay for it to be fixed. Of course, the plumber they sent said he could definitely do it with no problem, gave me a quote, but then tried to get approval for the cost of going through cement which is what caused this red flag.
They have given me the runaround since June 19 and it's now the 6th. No bathroom and they keep telling me they are investigating the situation. I've had my home insurance send a plumber and a structural engineer assess the area and repair. They both said the plumber should be okay to do this. I also have pictures and the written estimate from their plumber which says nothing of the cement slab. This is horrendous customer service and management. I also have little confidence in their vendors. We got this warranty when we bought the house. But when we sold our old house, we went with Choice Home Warranty. I definitely recommend them over AHS.
Reviewed July 6, 2012
New home - First issue was with the water leak on the inside of the house (outside faucet). After waiting for many days before a plumber responded, the plumber said he needed $60 to see the faucet, then would need to make another trip to get the part to repair. Each visit is $60, so we are looking at at least $120 for a $20 part. Second issue, water leaks in the basement from the main water line. It was in fine print that they wouldn't cover. Third issue, on the 4th of July, our A/C went out. We called and they said they would immediately dispatch. So on the 5th, my wife called to check on the status. The company said that company they are using to subcontract doesn't have voicemail and they don't answer the phone. So now it is the 6th and they said give them another 24 hours to respond. It's over 100 degrees here and I have small children. We called up another company, but they are booked now since we are coming up on a weekend. Each time you call, expect to wait at least 30 minutes before you get a response. Very, very poor service.
Reviewed July 6, 2012
I signed up for systems plan coverage and pay $37 a month. I talked with Gwen at the GFA, GA office, and then I got a contract for three payments, totaling $444. I sent a void check to deduct the $37 a month automatic draft. Next thing I know, AHS is taking out $111 on June 1, 2012 with another contract fee invoice of $148 to be taken out on June 8th. This was not our agreement and when I talked with Gwen, she said she did not know why they did this. She would check on this. I heard nothing so I stopped payment on the $111. Is this how you do everyone? I am a widow and I can't have $148 come out in three payments. I now get a past due notice for $407. Nobody knows what is going on. Please let me know what is going on. If this is the way you treat customers, I don't need it!
Reviewed July 4, 2012
I filed a service request today, July 4, 2012, for my A/C. They sent out their company United Air Temp. They came out and said my compressor was burnt out and if I do not pay them $385 to clean the coils, they were going to send pictures and deny my claim. Later, the man said it was only $165 just to do the coils so I told him to go ahead. Then In just a few minutes later, he came back and said the it's the casing outside. It was deteriorating due to the weather and had AHS deny the request. At that time, I did not realize that United Air Temps is owned by AHS. The guy left at that point without even telling me and did absolutely nothing. This was not the first time I had problems with AHS. Around 2 years ago, I was going to court (against a renter) for one of my properties. I needed a detailed report from AHS. AHS asked for a $25 for the paperwork. As of today, 2 years later, I went to court with no paperwork and they never gave me my $25 back. Beware.
Reviewed July 3, 2012
I called in about my broken water heater. They had someone out the following day. The plumber claimed that it would cost $485 for a sediment trap, $120.00 for another charge, and $50.00 to rid the old hot water heater. I called around and found that the sediment trap is $10.00 worth of nipples, two lines is called drip legs or drip trap. I called back to AHS who said they have no control over what is being charged but I could get a cash payment and take care of it myself. This is the third day I do not have hot water. They said it would take 72 hours for me to learn what the cash settlement would be. They honestly think it's okay for our family to be without hot water forever? I also believe the $485 is a way for them to get money to pay for the hot water tank. What a scam.
Reviewed June 30, 2012
I made a service call on 5/19/12 to American Home Shield warranty for a service request for repair for my dishwasher. I received a confirmation of my request from American Home Shield warranty on 5/20/12. A man from HAR Appliance Repair that was contacted by American Home Shield warranty called and a service appointment was scheduled for May 24, 2012 .The HAR Appliance repairmen came out on 5/24/12. It was stated that my dishwasher was unrepairable and needed to be replaced. In less than 10 minutes, I was paying the repairman from HAR Appliance $60 for the service call.
I finally received a call on 5/30/12 made by Jordan from American Home Shield saying she had to find a model to replace my non-working dishwasher, a model that was cheaper than the dishwasher than I currently have. Jordan stated she had to get a model to be approved by a supervisor from their company. I was also informed by Jordan that she would have to call me back another day with a model of dishwasher that their company would pay for. I received a phone message and an email on 5/31/12 with a dishwasher model that American Home Shield had chosen as a replacement dishwasher.
I called on June 1, 2012 and I spoke to a Jane from American Home Shield. I gave her my information and explained that I had received a phone about a model of dishwasher that had been chosen as a replacement dishwasher from American Home Shield. I accepted the model that American Home Shield had chosen and approved a dishwasher as follows: appliance, dishwasher; brand offered, Frigidaire; and model number offered, FGHD2471K B/W. I placed the order with Jane. I thought the dishwasher had already been ordered by Jane on June 1, 2012.
However, I received another letter dated June 4, 2012 stating that they were offering me this: appliance, dishwasher; brand offered, Whirlpool’ model number offered, Wdt710PAY W/B. American Home Shield was offering a different dishwasher than what Jane had ordered on June 1, 2012. It is very difficult to get in contact with American Home Shield. I have not heard from American Home Shield and it is now June 30, 2012.
I am trying to get the dishwasher replaced with a comparable dishwasher than I currently have, which was considered to be non-repairable, and needed it to be replaced by the technician that was sent out by American Home Shield. It is very difficult to get in contact with the American Home Shield. It is June 30, 2012 and I have not heard from American Home Shield. My dishwasher has not been replaced as stated in the home warranty contact. I have had this home warranty insurance for several years and never really needed to use it until now. I have gotten the royal around from American Home Shield in replacing my dishwasher.
Reviewed June 29, 2012
Air conditioner went out in over 100-degree Texas heat. AHS had a contractor come out. The contractor was inconsistent/questionable integrity (told us our parts were "in", then told us the parts had not arrived). The contractor was unreliable (they did not show up for established appointment day or give us a courtesy call). Another time, they came at 9:15 pm when we were told to expect them between 5 and 9 pm. A few days later, the contractor arrived for repair without the needed parts and kept putting off our repair. It has been two weeks since we requested the repair. Nothing has been done to repair our AC. When we attempt to contact AHS, we get shuttled to different "specialists", have call "hold" times exceeding 30 minutes, and absolutely no resolution. Avoid this company!
Reviewed June 29, 2012
On June 8th, we called AHS to report our refrigerator was not working. Our building maintenance man said the fridge was over 20 years old and was not repairable but AHS would not listen and assigned the issue to Sears for repair. Sears dropped the ball and we never got a repairman out for almost a week. When he came, they had to order parts that took almost a week to get and it was several days before they came to put the parts in and within 24 hours of the repair, the refrigerator quit again. A second repair person came out several days later and did more repair and within 24 hours, the refrigerator quit again. Now three days later and they are telling us no one can come out until tomorrow which will be the June 30th. On top of all this, every time we call AHS, we have to wait more than 30 minutes to even get anyone on the phone. Twenty one days without a refrigerator and at this rate, I doubt we will have a working one within the next week.
Reviewed June 29, 2012
On 6/22/12, I was having problems with my air conditioner. So, I contacted AHS about the problem and was told that they would have someone come out on the 25th, which was Monday. Okay, for the time being I decided to buy a small window unit to keep my family cool during the 100-plus weekend temperature. So Monday a so-called tech from Harkins A/C (avoid this company, too) came out to check my unit. After inspecting, I was told that an email would be sent to AHS about the problem as my unit (pay attention) outside was leaking out the coils and could not be replaced.
Well, the following day no one called, so I gave Harkins a call and was told that they hadn't spoken with anyone about my claim. Okay! I called AHS and that's when I was told that the unit would not be replaced due to the unit inside the house being clogged and not installed correctly and not having enough air supply which caused the hole on the outside unit. No way in hell! So, I called AHS back the following day to dispute the claim made by Harkins A/C. I then asked for a second opinion from another company and was put on hold for a while. Finally, someone came back and told me that they were the only one on their list for that type of work.
Okay, being that I have a child who has Down’s syndrome, has holes in her heart and also suffers from breathing problems, I would have to fend for myself after paying for a warranty over 3 years. I then contacted Ward Mechanical who installed the unit in my attic 4 years ago and the owner himself came out to check their work personally. He then stated that if something was not right, they would replace it for free (work done 4 years ago). After inspecting, I was then told that everything was ok, but my condenser was dirty and needed cleaning. Still, it does not have anything to do with the part outside getting a hole inside of it. So, after $2000-plus I had to replace my unit out of pocket and will be dropping AHS after this statement and I would not recommend American Home Shield and Harkins A/C to no one ever to cover or fix anything, not even a damn sandwich.
Reviewed June 28, 2012
I have had preventative maintenance contract on my HVAC system with Air Reliant since 2008 and another company for 3 years before that. My HVAC system has been checked and cleaned every 6 months for this time. I have also paid for warranty with American Home Shield for several years. The air conditioner was checked in April and cleaned, and it was working fine, and by Air Reliant's records, it was working better than required. But the air conditioner quit working last week.
AHS sent Oxford Heating and Air (which, by the way, has 14 complaints to BBB mostly for warranty issues) to diagnose the problem. They said the compressor was blown due to lack of maintenance and that the condenser coil was 90% clogged. I looked, and condenser coil was not clogged at all. You can see right through the slats, which means air can flow freely through slats.
I took pictures. The AHS rep discussed the pictures with me. In our discussion, he did not describe the pictures we were looking at simultaneously. He insisted the pictures indicate the unit is clogged. However, I can clearly see through the coils in the same picture. AHS has denied my claim and refused to send someone from a more reputable company to diagnose the problem. Air Reliant previously contracted with AHS, but they discontinued because of this deceptive practice.
Reviewed June 28, 2012
Last Monday, June 18, 2012, I had a scheduled appointment with an AHS-recommended plumber. The plumber was scheduled to come out between the morning and noon (12:00). At 9:00AM, I received a call from the plumber that he would not be coming due to the rain. I assured the plumber that it had rained earlier that morning, but it was no longer raining. He informed me that it was raining where he was. This made no sense to me. I communicated with Mr. ** that if it was raining in Bowie or wherever his truck was parked, it should not affect the weather here in DC. I called AHS and was pretty much told one and the same. After the integrity was lost with Mr. **, I requested that I be rescheduled with another company.
Needless to say, AHS attempted to force me to allow Mr. ** come another date. I literally had to stand my grounds and communicate to AHS that they could not and will not push a contractor on me who lacks integrity. With that said, I was rescheduled with ARS Rescue Rooters. Not good. I had a scheduled appointment for yesterday, Wednesday, June 27, 2012 between 1 and 6PM. I called 9-ish on the date to confirm my appointment and was assured of my appointment. At approximately 3:20PM, I received a call from AHS who informed me that the technician would not get to my home until 6:00PM. Not in agreement, I politely confirmed with the caller. I immediately left the house off to a nearby store.
I returned at 4:20PM and was informed by my neighbor that the plumber had just left. She assured the technician, Greg, ARS Rescue Rooter, that I would be right back. I contacted AHS and shared my dismay as to them confirming 6:00PM and the technician showing up at 3:55PM. After a nonchalant disposition received from the administrative person who answered, "We'll call you back in an hour," it's now approximately 4:30 and I called back to AHS and was assured that the plumber was on his way back to my home. Needless to say, no one showed up. I'm so dissatisfied with American Home Shield. I've been a customer for approximately two years and this is the first time I've contacted American Home Shield to rectify a problem, to no avail. This experience has left me with no faith in American Home Shield or its contractors. I expected better of American Home Shield.
Reviewed June 27, 2012
My pool service called me stating my pool heater was leaking. I called AHS they stated they would have Hawaiian Pools come out to take care of it. I asked if I could have someone else due to a previous problem with that company. They stated no because they were the only person they were contracted with. The following day, I received a home phone call and email from Hawaiian Pools, stating they wanted to come out the same day, but I didn't get the messages until I got home some hours later. I called them immediately and they had an attitude because they were unable to contact me. I told them I would be home the following morning if they could come. Then, they told me they were very busy and I would have to wait and see.
The following morning, a tech showed up. He checked the problem and told me to top up the pool which I did. He then stated he would call AHS and I paid him $75 call out fee. The following day, AHS called stating that the tech had told them that the pools' ph was 6.8, and they would not pay for any repairs or new items. I took a sample of water to be tested and it showed 8.2. When I called Hawaiian Pools, he stated that my pool was overflowing? Strange, why would he ask me to top it up? I have a weekly professional pool service that does the chemical check weekly. This is all a scam not to pay for repairs which is covered in the contract.
Reviewed June 26, 2012
On the first call to AHS for a simple dripping shower, they sent a plumber who didn't repair it and said we needed a new shower head, but they didn't have one that would work for us. I had to pay AHS $60 for sending the lame plumber. Then, I had to call another plumber and pay again to get it fixed and it was not the shower head - it was a part inside the shower faucet.
On the second call to AHS for the wine cooler, it was denied. It was not covered/read fine print. On the third call to AHS for beverage refrigerator, we asked if it was covered and was told yes and they sent out appliance repair. They left and told me they would order the part and call when ready. Okay, I thought we are 1 for 3! Two days later I get a call from AHS: “This is not covered under a clause in the contract. Bye.” I called the appliance repair and asked them to order the part and repair and I will pay, but now they just don't know what part it is and can't do it. So now I get to pay another $60 to AHS for nothing! Now, I have to pay another $69 to the appliance rescue center that was recommended by the manufacturer to come out. No way am I signing on with this company again! Think long and hard, people.
Reviewed June 26, 2012
I have filed 3 service requests with them. Each has been denied based on not being conditions of normal wear and tear. The most recent was a denied claim to replace a 25 year old air compressor. They claim it is due to a kinked drip line, which would have been there at the time that the warranty was issued. The cost to me will now be somewhere between $3,000 and $6,000, based on estimates by service providers they sent out. To date I have spent approximately $1,000 with AHS, and I have received nothing in return. I believe their company to be fraudulent, preying on people who wish to be protected from eventual wear and tear. The company issues warranties based on conditions that they do not verify, send out providers who are told to find a reason to fault the homeowner and then deny the claims.
Reviewed June 26, 2012
The drain line on evaporator coil was running water on one of the center main beams under the house. American Home Shield says its Myers’ problem, write a letter to American Home Shield legal department and they would look at it. I can’t get anyone from Myers to return my call. I have all dates of call and names of who I spoke with. Myers called American Home Shield and told them the problem was fixed, case closed. The repair man from Myers came to the house and did not go under the house to look at the problem. He chose to look at the pictures on my husband’s cell phone and because my husband ran a PVC pipe from under the house to stop water from running on the beam, I guess he called AHS and said resolved (per AHS). My next step will be legal. AHS denies that they paid for the drain line. It is connected to the evaporator coil that Myers installed. Myers denies they ran the drain line; they said they don’t go under the house. Hello, it is attached to the coil.
Reviewed June 22, 2012
On 6/14/12, my aircon shut down. The heat index that day was 111. The AHS contractor said he could not come until the afternoon of the following day. When the technician came at 5 pm on 6/15/12, he told me I needed a new unit but that he could not get anything approved at the time of day it was. I demanded he do something. He "taped" my machine and said it would work, and it did not. I had no air conditioning all weekend. On Monday morning, the AHS contractor called to say the fan blade was being ordered and would be available in two days. It's two more days without air conditioning. The fan blade was replaced yesterday, and suddenly now, I have unrepairable holes in my evaporator coils. AHS said, "Sorry, you will have to pay for that part out of your pocket." Well, I bought myself a new unit today, because I am done with AHS. I am calling tomorrow to cancel my contract, and I have heard to expect problems with the cancellation. AHS charges "administration fees" to cancel.
Reviewed June 22, 2012
We have had AHS for 3 years. Yes, the rates went up, including the service fee. What hasn't gone up? We just added additional coverage and do pay a nice chunk yearly, but it’s nothing compared to the replacement/repair costs we may confront. There are 2 phone numbers on your contract, one for repairs and one for sales. Call the sales number to speak to a live person (if needed). We have never had a problem speaking with a person. We always have had good customer service. I just had to call them today. It’s the second time our AC broke. We requested the same company that fixed it that did so more than a year ago. Last week, our well pump went out 2 weeks after adding it to our policy! We had to pay for a new one last year ($900.00) because it was not covered. You must read all the fine print and understand what it means! If you don't understand, ask! Reading though all the comments, it seems the main complaint is with the companies doing the work - not including the lack of speaking to a live person!
I am a female, born and raised in the south. I was raised the way everyone should be raised: "If it's broke, fix it!" The man in the house is from Chicago. He was raised and believes in the maxim, "If it's broke, call someone to fix it.” Yes, lately I have been stressed with so many repairs not only to the home, but also to the car, truck and tractor! There are days I want to scream! As far as AHS, I look at it this way. If the part is cheaper than the service call, we take care of it! If it's more, thank God for AHS! I also take care of some repairs that are more only because I do not want to call for service too many times for fear of being cancelled! Just 3 days ago I spent 2 days under the crawl space repairing plumbing leaks. One that, yes, I believe the well pump guy caused - a loose water line to my washer - as he was right next to it. Was it caused on purpose? I don't think so. He more than likely hit it as he was crawling out. Did I get angry or call the company? No, it was an easy fix!
Now, let me tell y’all about these companies that work for AHS. I asked, that's why I know! I yearn for knowledge and I learn as I watch them working hard! They barely break even with what AHS pays them! Avoiding you or putting you on the back burner is wrong! I understand your frustration. I know how I felt yesterday and today! The AC broke and I was up until 6 am repairing the window unit I had and trouble shooting the heat pump! I waited until 2 pm to call AHS in hopes I could fix it! It was the compressor - no way! It has to be replaced! Well, my AC was up and running in less than 3 hours! It's 8 pm and the house is great! Yet I have the tractor awaiting for me to finish its repairs and a roof leak that needs to be fixed before the rain tomorrow! If I had any complaint about AHS, it would be the low amount these contractors are paid! It was 101 F today (who knows the heat index), yet there they were working hard and repair the AC quickly!
Some tips!
Treat the people whom answer the phone with respect! They are probably in a small office with 50 other people doing the same thing! Treat the contractors with even more respect! They are doing your repair for free! The techs here take a pay break to answer AHS service calls due to AHS's low payment! Take time to see what they are doing! Always be there to help in anyway! That's why you took off work - not to watch TV or hide somewhere expecting them to get it all done! Offer a drink, whatever you may have - even ice water is fine! I always take bottle water to them without asking. If you can afford it, give them a tip! Yeah, it helps!
I hope people read this and see the big picture! I understand all state laws differ as far as home warranties are concerned. I understand in the big cities people can be short and rude - sad! But here in this small town, we take care of each other. I mean, we really care, even if we don't know the person! I am on the outskirts of South Hampton Roads, VA (Norfolk, VA Beach), which is a huge military community! Yes, I was a Navy spouse for 26 years and I now live with a Navy man husband-to-be. I know big cities, but I never lost my kindness and understanding! I'm not a pushover either! Do me wrong - watch out! Try to mug me, I introduce you to my "enforcer stick,” a piece of cherry wood from Wisconsin that I saved from a fire! It all comes down to your attitude! Put all anger and frustration aside when speaking to any company! First impressions must be good if you want good service! I'm not too religious nor do I attend church, but I do believe! On that note, I will close with this: whatever happened to, "Do unto others as you wish them to do onto you"? Anger is a horrible health disease! It drains the life out of you!
Reviewed June 21, 2012
A/C Repair - I got American Home Shield, thinking I was covered if something goes wrong, but I was wrong. I have placed a service call twice with this company and both times, they found a reason not to pay for repairs or they first try to prove that the damage existed before the start of your contract.
Reviewed June 20, 2012
My renter called AHS for emergency service regarding water that was coming out of the drywall and onto the wood floor. AHS replied they have 24 contractual hours to respond to requests for service and scheduled a plumber for the following day. As the homeowner, I called AHS indicating the house is uninhabitable without running water and to send a plumber to evaluate ASAP. Royco Plumbing was called, but they never returned called to myself, my renter, or to AHS. In order to address the situation immediately, I had to call my own private plumbing company who indicated they could come within the hour. Royco showed up unannounced 30 minutes before my plumber arrived. Royco refused to assess the problem because a refrigerator had to be moved. Royco called AHS and AHS then called me two hours later.
By this time, my plumber himself moved the refrigerator, called a professional drying company, arranged demo contractors to remove the wall, and repaired the entire length of the copper pipe. If I had waited for AHS to respond when they did at 5:00 pm, we would have never been able to contact these contractors to immediately address the emergency. I am now out $2300 for plumbing repairs for a job very well done that I have complete confidence in. I learned my lesson!
AHS hides behind their "contractual obligation language" in order to provide the least service necessary to their customers. Their contracted repair companies are substandard, negligent, and have no interest at all in making their customers feel at ease in handling the situation professionally. This is socialistic business practices at their finest! I'm reporting to the BBB. Royco Plumbing already has a grade of F from the BBB. It's time that AHS also is given an F. Do not be enticed by false advertising into purchasing a service contract with American Home Shield. Buyer beware!
Reviewed June 19, 2012
My downstairs ceiling had a leak. I called American Home Shield and they sent a plumber. The plumber cut out two holes from the ceiling and said it was the toilet ring from the upstairs restroom. He fixed the toilet ring. Now comes the repair of the ceiling - American Home Shield only covers the hole that was cut out but they do not completely do the full drywall. It's been about a month and my ceiling still has holes. The problem is that from the two companies (Acosta Drywall and Carpentry Etc.) never showed up to do the repairs.
I attempted to contact Acosta for almost a week and finally gave up. I called American Home Shield and reported that Acosta did not show up. American Home Shield was going to look into it. I received no call from AHS so I called them again. This time they referred me to Carpentry Etc. I spoke with Carpentry Etc. and the individual I spoke with said "I do show up" (saying it with a little attitude), and also said that they only patch up the holes. I don't know how they'll attach the pieces of sheetrock to the ceiling without any beams to hold those pieces together. And they only roughly patch it. You have to hire someone else to finish the job. And of course, Carpentry Etc. didn't show up. I called them, no answer.
I finally received a call from Carpentry Etc. three days later. They don't call you the day of their appointment that they can't make it. I lost two days of work without pay and neither company showed up. I also have a two-year old granddaughter with asthma. Then of course, my electric bill will be higher due to the air escaping into the ceiling. About one month already and nothing done, then I get a notice. My premium is going up and my deductible is going up from $60.00 to $75.00. I called their sales department and asked them questions to see what their responses would be under certain circumstances.
They lied to me. I did call AHS again and asked them how certain items would be covered. Their answer was different than the sales department. I did, however, advised AHS that they do lie when selling their plans. Of course, she denied it. They told me in case my air unit goes out, they only pay up to $1,500. I'm stuck with the rest. I've been paying for this plan for about 6 years now. Electrical fixtures are not covered, only the wiring. I also had the water heater break. Two thermostats were replaced. However, one other problem, the tech said that my water heater was leaking from the top but somehow stopped leaking (there were some hard deposits on top). AHS does not cover that type of damage because it is not leaking anymore. That didn't make any sense to me. "It was leaking but not anymore"? Obviously, there's a problem.
Reviewed June 18, 2012
In 11/2011, my oven broke (stove/broiler works). A technician came out four times and told me he replaced everything he could and said I needed a new stove. I got a call from another technician saying AHS wanted him to check it again. He came and said there was nothing else to replace. Everything he would replace was done and said it needs to be replaced. It was junk. I didn't hear anything from AHS and I called. The lady said they were going to send another company to look at the stove (didn't hear back from AHS). I called a few times after and was told that since Sears isn't around my area, that they would replace it.
Now, this was early 2012. I have to talk to an AHS rep to describe what features the stove has to replace it. I called the purchasing dept at 800-326-6710 three times in the past week (I travel and this is the first time I am home for awhile to call and describe features since I'm gone during the week and AHS is closed on weekends). Today is the third day I tried to get in contact with a live person in the purchasing dept. It is now after 6pm EST and I called at 2:30. I was told my wait time was greater than 30 minutes (they actually mean hours or days) as they are experiencing very high call volume which is creating longer than expected wait times. A little after an hour and 15 min, I got a message that there is a problem with the phone and to call back later. This happened twice today.
I immediately called the number above again after the site hung up on me (same goes for the other two days, only those days I started calling about 1pm until closing). In a few minutes, I am expecting to be told that they are closed to call back tomorrow. All they want is their money. When they have to actually replace something, nobody is around. Customer service is terrible. I do not recommend this company to anybody. When someone asks, I tell them to go to the company my son has. They respond immediately and you don't have to waste all day on the phone hoping someone will answer. I have spent a total of over 15 hours this week on hold. Still holding. Tomorrow is another day. I should charge them for the time I am on hold; after all, my time is money too.
Reviewed June 18, 2012
AHS refused to cover my 12-year old water heater, saying it was neglected and that was the reason the sediment caused the bottom of the unit to leak out. After research issues with water heaters, it is clear that old water heaters fail over time due to sediment buildup. However, the AHS plumber who was recommended by them was prompt to try to up-sell me on buying a water treatment system ($2,400) so the water would not damage a new water heater in the future in addition to trying to sell me a new water heater for $1,250.
The kicker to all this when I complained to AHS was that they told me I was on the $537 grandfathered contract, which does not cover sediment damage, whoever they have a new policy that does cover the same plus water heater sediment damage for $499 and would be happy to put me on that policy but not retroactive to cover the damage. They also demanded I pay the plumber service fee of $75, instead of $60 because I am now being brought up to current AHS service payment level. Why this and not honor the old vs. new policy?
I have been with AHS for 5-6 years paying my $42 monthly dues on time and now I need them. I feel that AHS is the worst company in this business and dishonest. They are not willing to help me in this matter other than saying to take my chances by sending them a letter to be reviewed. Avoid AHS at all costs (in more ways than one!).
Reviewed June 15, 2012
I am still waiting after 3 weeks to get my HVAC fixed. All I get is the runaround and no callback. This for a client of 10+ years. I would be embarrassed to work for such a company. Can you imagine going without AC for 3 weeks and still not be anywhere close to getting someone to tell you what they will or won't do. All the people I speak to in "customer relations" are very nice, but no one returns calls or find resolution. They act like they will, but don't. I am 4 calls into my last rep with no return calls. Do not waste your money with American Home Shield!
Reviewed June 15, 2012
Ridiculous! They don't do what they tell you they'll do. You wait 25 minutes on hold only to have someone pick up the phone and you're disconnected... over and over. They must be doing this on purpose! My refrigerator died about 4 weeks ago. The refrigerator is only 2 years old and the original cost was $1200. We got our original appointment to repair it after 1 week, which is crazy. Then we waited another week while they ordered parts and shipped them. Then, the second tech came out and said it's not repairable, so AHS has to replace it. That's when AHS dropped the ball. They keep saying that they need to research options and then they'll replace it. It's been a month. No fridge. I pay $45 a month for just an appliance warranty from them. They are really good at taking money. That's what they do. Try to get something from them - different story. This is a great business idea. I think I'll open up my own company like this! I should have known; they get sued like crazy - but I thought they had changed. Hello, AHS - one month with no fridge!
Reviewed June 14, 2012
My stove broke and three repair companies came out and they didn't fix it but still required the $60 payment. This is the third time this has happened and frankly, I've had it. I won't be renewing and would advise no one else to do the same. When you call their 800 number, the wait until today was 40 minutes! It's just not the service it used to be.
Reviewed June 14, 2012
AHS refused to pay the full cost of my furnace replacement. It was way over 30 years old. The furnace was rusty and dangerous, needed to be replaced. I had a few companies inspected it and gave me a quote. They reported that it needed to be replaced. AHS told me that I needed to maintain it and offered to pay just a portion of the cost to replace it, which is over a thousand dollars. The cost was $2,300, which I was told that when a furnace has corroded, there is no way it can be cleaned or maintained. Furnace cannot be maintained. I was very dissatisfied with AHS after having them as my home warranty company for such a long period of time. It doesn't matter who contact me for my compliant. I didn't feel that AHS was honest about their findings.
Reviewed June 13, 2012
I placed a service call about a broken pipe. A few days passed and no call back. When the company finally did come out, they told AHS that the pipe was not connected to the house and it was not covered. Duh, it's broken! Now I am out of 60 bucks and stuck with a broken pipe. After many calls to AHS to complain, I was told another company would come out but none did. Then I was told they did not have another company to do the work and could not help me, and I should write to the dispute department. So that's where I stand. I will be leaving this company next month, but I will be taking my sister and brother along with me because they are all customers of this company.
Reviewed June 12, 2012
I can’t reach a real person by phone and I was put on hold for 30-50 minutes. I’m still on hold. I was told to upgrade to the best service agreement, so I did. This was to cover all things in home, including prior problems with the fixture. When I called to have the problem fixed, you seem to have every reason not to fix it. Some loophole is found to circumvent fixing my home, so I ended up spending almost $1,000 per year with you and nothing is fixed. I have had to pay the $60 co-pay, then look for another vendor to fix the problem and spend another $600 for the repair. This company is a joke. Fix it or lose many good customers (including me for the past 3 or so years).
Reviewed June 12, 2012
I received a call from AHS indicating my policy was not paid at the renewal date. I informed them that I no longer wanted the service and that I was not going to renew. 60-plus days later I have received a collection notice that I owed 2 months of premiums. First of all, I told them I was not renewing. Secondly, this is an insurance policy and non-payment of premium should be a cancellation of service, as long as there were no claims during the period the premiums were not paid, and should only be subject to cancellation. When I contacted the collection agency, I was told I need to work this out with AHS. It is very difficult to get in touch with AHS as the wait times for assistance is fairly long. I do not understand why my credit is being affected because I decided to cancel an insurance policy. I have been told this is an AHS practice.
Reviewed June 11, 2012
I made a service on 5/19/12, to American Shield Home warranty for a service request for repair for my dishwasher. I received a confirmation of my request from American Shield Home Warranty on 5/20/12. A man from HAR Appliance Repair, that was contacted by American Shield Home Warranty called and a service appointment was scheduled for May 24, 2012. The HAR Appliance repairmen came out on 5/24/12, stated that my dishwasher was unrepairable and needed to replace the dishwasher. In less than 10 minutes I was paying the repairman from HAR Appliance $60 for the service call. They didn't hear from American Home Warranty until May 29, 2012 late in the evening on 3:05pm Pacific Time and 5:05pm Central Standard, American Shield's Home Warranty time, after the store hours.
I called the next day on May 30, 2012. I called the phone number left by American Shield’s warranty representative. When I called, I was on hold for fifty minutes, waiting to talk to a representative from American Shield. After waiting on the phone line for 50 minutes, I finally spoke to a representative named Jordan, she asked me what kind of dishwasher did I have and to name the features on the dishwasher. Then, I was put on hold again for an additional 10 minutes while she looked up a dishwasher. When Jordan got back on the phone line, she informed me that my model was more than the cost of what American Home Shield would pay for and that they had to find a cheaper model to replace it with. I asked her, wasn't American Home Shield supposed to replace the dishwasher with a comparable model dishwasher? I was informed by Jordan from American Home Shield that she had to find a model to replace my non-working dishwasher, a model that was cheaper than the dishwasher that I currently have. Jordan stated she had to get a model to be approved by a supervisor from their company. I was also informed by Jordan that she would have to call me back another day with a model of dishwasher that their company picked out.
I received a phone message and an email on 5/31/12, with a dishwasher model that American Home Shield had chosen as a replacement dishwasher. I called on June 1, 2012, I was on hold for 15 minutes this time and I spoke to a Jane from American Home Shield. I gave her my information and explained that I had received a phone about a model of a dishwasher that had been chosen as a replacement dishwasher. Jane stated to me that American Home Shield had picked out the dishwasher that they were going to pay for and that they were not responsible for whether the size was correct or not , that if the dishwasher that they had chosen didn't fit, I would be responsible for a restocking fee. This Jane woman was very nasty and rude on the phone. You let me know that American Home Shield picked out the dishwasher that they were going to pay for, and if didn't fit that was my problem. She also stated that they were not concerned about the color the replacement as well as the size of the dishwasher. Jane also stated that American Home Shield doesn't pay to customize the cabinetry to fit the dishwasher that I would have to pay for my changes to my cabinetry to accommodate the size of the Dishwasher that their company picked out. I am not looking to change any part of my kitchen or cabinets; I am trying to get the dishwasher replaced with a comparable dishwasher that I currently have, which was considered to be non-repairable, and needed be replaced by the technician that American Home Shield sent out.
I was also informed that once the item was ordered and delivered that the seller that American Home Shield had ordered from would deliver the dishwasher at their convenience, whenever they were in the area and that I needed to be available. When I asked Jane what would be the estimated date of delivery as I would have to make arrangements to be off work. Her reply was when they are in the area to deliver the dishwasher at the delivery person’s convenience. I asked Jane, once the deliverymen delivered the dishwasher, how long after would the repairman be out to put in the dishwasher? Jane stated to me that American Home Shield would send out their technician at their convenience, whenever they got around to it and in the meantime I would have to store the dishwasher wherever, until their technician came out. She also emphasized that if I asked would the technician take away the non-operational dishwasher, she stated that I was responsible for the removal and the disposable of the old dishwasher. Jane informed me that American Home Shield was not concerned how the old dishwasher was disposed of once the American Home Shield technician removed the non-working dishwasher. I asked if I could pay for the removal. I was informed that it was my problem for the removal of the old dishwasher.
I pay a premium of $356.04 annually at $29.67, through my mortgage company, GMAC for the Home Warranty Insurance for American Home Shield. I have had Home Warranty Insurance for the last 13 years, most of those years with American Home Shield. I found American Home Shield to be very unprofessional not wanting to replace my dishwasher with a comparable model but a cheaper model, in which the company decides on the model and size of a dishwasher of their choice whether it is comparable to the one I currently have or not. It doesn't seem to matter to American Home Shield whether the size of the dishwasher that they have chosen fit the space that the new dishwasher is to be put into. It appears to me that American Home Shield is trying to take advantage of me as a customer and is interpreting the contract as they please without any accountability. I will make sure that others are aware of what I am experiencing with American Home Shield Home Warranty Company.
Reviewed June 11, 2012
I have been on the phone holding for 19 minutes to reach a customer service rep and they still haven't answered. Rating them as "bad" would be a compliment. The customer service group might as well not exist. Then, we wouldn't have any expectations.
Reviewed June 11, 2012
Going on for 4 weeks now, I have been working with AHS to repair my washer. It's an older model of GE large-capacity washer, so I would prefer to get it fixed than to buy a new one, just because it's such a good washer and they really don't make them like they used to. I started making calls on May 20. Sears is the contractor. They have now been to my home 3x to repair, and my washer is still not fixed. They first came out, assessed the damages, then ordered parts. Then they came back, walked in, and said, "Oops, all the parts aren't here. Please reschedule." I say what I think are the next logical questions: reschedule for when and when all the parts will be here.
He then went to his truck and pulled up when the parts were scheduled to arrive. I asked, "Well, why didn't you check your system before you came out if you had access?" He gave a shoulder shrug and a very lame answer that it's AHS's fault. So the part arrived on the same evening as the Sears guy left my home which was even more frustrating.
So, I called back to AHS for them to send Sears out but wanted to make sure that all the parts were there. They have no idea if all the parts were there. So, I was first on hold with AHS for about 30 minutes just to talk to a rep. I begged them not to hang up, so the woman conferenced in Sears just so they could confirm all the parts were there. I was reading off all the parts in my home to the Sears rep, but why couldn't she tell from the system that all the parts were there.
To add insult to injury, they again sent out a rep and he again could not fix the problem. He was really nice and explained that more parts were needed, which he figured, but AHS does not allow them to order everything they needed upfront but asks them to fix only the problem they are there for and if anything else arises, then they can order more parts. It's not a very good experience for the customer. Trust me. I am totally feeling the runaround. So here I am again calling AHS, and after holding for an operator, I have clearly been disconnected after 15 minutes of hold music. It's totally unacceptable. I'm ready to cancel this service!
Reviewed June 9, 2012
One thing breaks after another. We recently purchased our house and the previous owner had AHS. When we called AHS to request an issue with the A/C be fixed, they promptly sent someone out and the issue was fixed at $60. However, shortly afterwards, the two hot water heaters stopped producing hot water. One heater produced lukewarm water at best and the other heater produced cold water. So, we called AHS again to come see about the problem. The technician indicated the temperature on the water heaters were turned way low, so we paid $60 to fix. Now, explain to me how the temperature dials could have changed if no one had been in the attic since the A/C guy went up there? I'm wondering what is the next item to stop working. It's very suspicious.
Reviewed June 8, 2012
I submitted a service request on Sunday evening, 6/3, and the repair company AHS sent was here the next day. The first 30 minutes, the diagnosis was made. The compressor would have to be replaced. The next 45 minutes was spent trying to find out why the compressor failed. He didn't come to any conclusive evidence as to why it failed; he said it may be from bio growth. When it was serviced last year, the beginning of bio growth was pointed out and they suggested a UV light stick. After researching this, we purchased one and had it installed.
How this home warranty works is that after the repair company fills out a report, they send it to AHS and they contact you about the repair. Today is Friday, June 8th, and we've yet to hear from them. The first time I called, they put me on hold to contact the repair company to have them fax over the report. Then the customer service rep said they would call us back. No call came. The next evening, I emailed their customer service asking for some information. I never received an answer. I sent a second email the next evening and no answer.
Yesterday, my husband called and the customer service rep told him that the repair company had not sent the report yet and that someone would call back and if we didn't hear from them, that they'd call us the next morning. Here I sit 6/8 and they still haven't called. The weather in Florida has been hot, very, very humid and rainy. It's been a tough week. Physically, it's starting to take its toll.
Reviewed June 7, 2012
I waited 15 minutes for someone to initially assist me. During my initial conversation, I explained to the Service Rep that I wanted an explanation for the denial of services. I told him I could not understand why the comments were made regarding my repairs. I was told my shower cover was the cause of my plumbing problem. That is an incorrect assessment. My pipe was set in at an angle; therefore, to get to the drain, the shower tile will need to be removed. I have no problem getting the tile removed. I have a problem with the reason for AHS denying the repair. After I explained my concerns to the Service Rep, I was placed on hold again for 15 minutes. This is unacceptable. It is unacceptable to have an ASA of 15 minutes. I finally hung up and called back after 10 minutes of wait time. I spoke with Jennifer who listened to my issues and concerns. She provided me with the process for disputing my denial. Again, your wait time at the claims dispute line has a 15-minute wait time.
Reviewed June 6, 2012
I have had my service with them for over 2 years. First time I called, they informed me it would be 12 to 24 hours before they could return my call to set up an appointment. My husband informed them it was 90+ degrees and they said that wasn't an emergency. Really? We had the air fixed that morning and had to pay $450.00 and are still waiting on a repair person to call and set the appointment. From what I have read, there are no satisfied customers. I wish I had read this before I paid them over $1500.00. I have a rep's name and number, who was supposed to reimburse me for what we had to pay. We'll see. I do not plan on letting this matter go.
Reviewed June 6, 2012
I never received a call from the company that you set up for me to check my heating and air conditioning units! I paid the extra money to get this service - one of your reps called me and said they had located a local company that would be calling me. Well, I was never called and I've never heard of this company either. I know many reputable heating and air conditioning service companies, too! This is one I've never heard of. I am skeptical. Also, I think I wasted my money. I just signed up with AHS and I may cancel and ask for money back! File a complaint against AHS with Better Business Bureau!
Reviewed June 5, 2012
American Home Shield and Sears' awful service - My home warranty with American Home Shield is barely worth having. They use Sears to handle any warranty repairs I need and the service is unimaginably awful! They fail to arrive during the appointment window they quote me almost every time and often I get absolutely no warning. Out of the last 5 service calls, the technician arrived well outside the quoted window on 3 occasions and even failed to show up at all for one appointment. To add insult to injury, I've just had to get them back 3 times for the same repair.
Reviewed June 4, 2012
I've had American Home Shield (AHS) since February 2009. Every summer and winter since then, they've been working on my AC and/or heat. They have to come out at least 3 times before it appears to be working and 6 months later, we're at it again. I called two weeks ago because my AC went out. They sent a contractor and I was told that due to age, my AC unit needed to be replaced. However, since it didn't have a drip pan or a filter (which their contractor removed), it wasn't covered due to maintenance. They sent another contractor for a second opinion, who said that the air handler and condensing units were mismatched (one 3.5 ton and the other 4 ton) which is why I've had problems all of these years.
I've had two other companies that I paid to diagnose the problem and was told that the "maintenance" issues had nothing to do with it not working, but the units being mismatched was a problem. I filed a complaint with the BBB and they responded to them that if the units were mismatched, they would not have been covered, but they have been servicing (or pretending to for 4 years) the unit. I just think that AHS are con artists. The rates are extremely high now, $50/month and $75/service fee, and they still don't fix anything. Now I've had to pay over $7,000 to have the whole thing replaced and feel that they should reimburse me. I am totally dissatisfied!
Reviewed May 31, 2012
I pay for my daughter's AHS for her house at ** Misty Glen, San Antonio, TX 78247. I had been paying $50 since the beginning. Then, all of a sudden, it went up to $58. Okay, I understand inflation. Now, it went up to $62.48. Why? What upsets me the most is the lack of communication. There was no advance notice to the consumer in either case. I would really like a response to this matter. At these prices, who can afford AHS?
Reviewed May 31, 2012
On 5-25-2012, I called AHS to let them know that my hot water heater was not working right. I put in a work order for this because I do not have hot water. I also had to go to work. The gentleman came out to do the work. I am waiting on AHS to say that it’s okay and I will receive a call back from AHS saying that the gentleman can take the hot water apart. Still, there’s no call from AHS. I called AHS back and they are trying to make up their mind after the gentleman told them what the problem was. They would not pay for the claim. I told them that I would pay for the difference. This is the same problem that I had 7 years ago and the hot water was replaced. I still do not have any hot water. One gentleman said that they might pay for this. I had one for this bill. Why should I continue to pay the monthly premium when I can't get service? I have this service for over 15 years.
Reviewed May 30, 2012
My 24 year water heater died. I called American Home Shield (AHS) and they sent ARS or Roto-Rooter to replace it. They charged me $92.00 to drill a hole in my brick wall, $48.00 for 26 inches of pipe insulation (I had plenty of that), $133 for a drip pan ($18.37 at Lowe’s), $75 for a gas drip leg, and $75 to add a piece of pipe to fit the new heater. The ARS technician tried to charge me $60 to dispose of the old heater, but the trash workers took it and they get $20 at the recycle plant. My total from ARS was $423.00 plus $60 for AHS. I expect AHS to raise my service fee; they always do after each call for service. Think twice before calling Roto-Rooter and get an item list of charges before the job. I will also not renew my contract with AHS.
Reviewed May 30, 2012
I did not get customer service. I called American Home Shield and held the phone for 1:30 and no one picked up. I went online to request service as my refrigerator and freezer is not working. An ID was given over the internet, but when I called Sears I was told American Home Shield have not submitted paperwork. In the meantime, my food is spoiled. I will never renew with them again. You cannot talk to anyone on the phone.
Reviewed May 29, 2012
They don't answer their phone, been waiting over 30 minutes. They say to get better faster service, use their web. Website does not work, cannot contact the "Service Request" tab.
Reviewed May 28, 2012
They've been fine for the small stuff: garbage disposal repair, small plumbing or electrical jobs, etc. Now that I have a larger problem, it's a different story. My 18-year-old heat pump keeps breaking down. They have sent someone here 4 times this year to add freon. To me, this is like throwing more water into a leaky bucket. Each time, I have to pay a $60 service call. This is in addition to the $40/month I pay AHS. If they do not replace the unit, I will file a lawsuit and a complaint with my county's consumer affairs office.
Reviewed May 26, 2012
The air conditioner was leaking all over floor. I called American Home Shield and they sent a company out that had previously been out two weeks prior and said I needed freon. Also, they said I needed the unit cleaned and serviced, so I paid them an additional $165.00 to clean and service the unit. On Tuesday evening, the company said they repaired it and it leaked all over my flooring again during the night. I called AHS again and they sent the same company that was here the previous evening and two weeks prior. They determined that my pan had rusted and they would have to order it. That was on 5/23/12 and AHS said they wouldn't have the pan until 5/31/12 because it was on back-order and they wouldn't try to get it from another distributor. I live in Atlanta and it is over 95 degrees outside. I have asthma and a 100-pound dog, which won't eat and is miserable.
American Home Shield will not send out another contractor to confirm that a pan is what is needed. American Home Shield has taken my fees for over 12 years and has banked a lot of money over the years and has only offered me $125.00 for the week without A/C so I can go out and buy a window unit or more fans. My house doesn't have windows to accommodate a window unit. I was on hold the first time for over 15 minutes and someone picked up the phone and hung it back up. I had to call again only to be on hold for another 15 minutes. I asked for a supervisor and was disconnected again. However, that rep named Randy did call me back and put me on with Delores who would not send out another company for a second opinion or try to find the part with another vendor so I could have A/C quicker. I've only used AHS for minor repairs in the past, but I will definitely choose to look into another company.
Reviewed May 25, 2012
I have this company for 7 years. I had to use my contract only a few times. But when I did, it would always take weeks to get someone to come fix the item. Now, they refuse to fix my a/c, not even replace or half the cost of this unit. I have spent $600 a year for a warranty that I can't use. When I got this contract, they said, "No matter what happens to the appliances in your house, we will either fix it or replace it. No questions asked." Well, that's a lie! When my refrigerator went out, it took them 3 days to get a new one (summer time). And, the one I got was dented and scratched!
Also, I paid $1500 out of my pocket for a new furnace. They said they would only pay $200! It took 3 days to get a new one. I live in Wisconsin! Winters are very cold and I have children. I asked about a hotel or some heaters. They said, "Not our problem!" Really, what good is a contract if you're not going to fix anything? Waste of money that I could have saved!
Reviewed May 25, 2012
Assuming 24/7 meant availability for repair service, we called this past Saturday. We were told that the earliest anyone could call us to schedule a visit would be Monday. The repairman with poor attitude arrived and after 5 minutes, he told us it was a valve problem and they would have to order the part. He said he would notify us on its arrival, which is expected in the next 2-5 days! At which time, he would arrange an appointment to return and repair the unit. He then requested $100.00 for the visit. When he became aware that I was not happy about what had transpired, he said I could pay on the return visit. After he left, my wife called two plumbers that we usually use and found that they would be able to obtain the valve or had the valve for replacement that day. It is now late Friday night and tomorrow will be a week without any further call.
Reviewed May 25, 2012
I turned my A/C on for the first time Tuesday. I noticed immediately that it was not working. I called AHS and was actually able to have a repairman at my door a few hours later. He was very unfriendly and difficult to understand. He told us that the unit could not be fixed and needed to be replaced. (It's almost 28 years old.) He asked me if I have a dog. I don't and I never have. He asked the same question to my husband, who had the same response. My property is walled and gated, and we do not have animals in my backyard. He then told me that he needed to send a report to AHS, and asked for the $60. In the past, the contractor always collected the $60 after all work was done. I knew immediately that we were going to be denied coverage.
We got a call from AHS today telling us that we have been denied coverage. The person was nasty and rude, and took about one hour to actually answer the call. Since we told the repairman that we don't have a dog, he changed his tune and wrote that we have our sprinkler aimed directly at the A/C unit and it caused corrosion. My husband asked how he could have known that since the serviceman's visit was at 6 pm and the sprinklers go on at 5 am. No response. We began reading the comments online about the scam AHS uses to deny coverage to customers. I have been a customer for approximately 18 years. I have had some small issues in the past, but this is the first time I have a costly item that needs to be replaced. Stay away from this company and read the reviews!
Reviewed May 24, 2012
AC unit was not working after calling in. I was surprised they sent out a technician that same day. I was impressed until it all panned out. I was reassured by the technician that the AC unit would be repaired when in fact the technician knew he would report it as an uncovered item. After calling in to express my concern, I was blown off as there's nothing they would do to even return my trade fee. I felt ripped off which prompted me to look for others who may have experienced the same issue and I see now. I'm not alone.
Reviewed May 21, 2012
On May 6, 2012, I discovered my AC unit was not working. I called American Home Shield and placed an order to have a tech assess the problem. Three days later, a technician from Piedmont Mechanical arrived at my home and went to the backyard where the unit is located. The tech tested the electrical outlet only and said the unit was not working due to the circuit breaker was faulty. The technician never looked inside the air unit to see if there was other possible reasons for the system to not work. He recommended an electrician to asses the issue. The tech called American Home Shield that same day to send an electrician. On Friday, May 11, an electrician came out and discovered my electrical system was working at the proper voltage. The electrician called Piedmont Mechanical and American Home Shield informed them that the electrical system was working perfectly.
At that point, American Home Shield called Piedmont Mechanical to come back out on Tuesday, May 15, 2012 to assess the problem again only this time, the tech decided to open the unit and discovered the entire unit need to be replaced. It took American Home Shield 24 hours to approve for a new air conditioning unit and ordered the unit Thursday. Still today, my unit has not been fixed and I have lived in my home for over 17 days without air with a temperature of 85-90 degrees in Atlanta, GA weather conditions. American Home Shield will not and cannot accommodate any urgency service and told me it was out of their control.
The other issue is I took a total of 4 days off thinking this matter will get resolved and now my job is on the line as I have no more days off to have this done. If only Piedmont Mechanical would have done the job right in the first place, I would not have had such a negative customer experience. The worst part is there is nothing I can do as a customer to be compensated for such inconvenience and right now, I have a headache and not feeling well and still no air in my home. It should not take 15 plus days for an air conditioning unit to be replaced. This is the worst customer experience I have ever had. I have several friends who have American Home Shield and they are ready to cancel.
Reviewed May 17, 2012
In March of 2011, they had cancelled a policy which I held for 8 years. They claimed they made a mistake. I didn't know it until May 2011. They were double billing me and till this day, refuse to straighten it out. I need help in this matter badly. I wish someone would do something about it.
Reviewed May 15, 2012
Air Zone, the vendor to AHS, came to my house with the repair parts and then left because he was not "comfortable." He did not drive an Air Zone truck. He had only a dirty tee shirt. I asked to see the parts I was buying because AHS was not covering them under the warranty. Air Zone was selling me $200 of parts for $1,000. I checked the same parts on the internet. Air Zone marked the parts up 3 to 10 times. Imagine paying $165 for a $14.50 part! The installer became "uncomfortable" of pictures taken of the repair parts and his vehicle in my driveway. He packed his stuff up and left. I am now being punished by Air Zone and supported by AHS. I have to wait another week. Southern Florida in May without A/C for three weeks. I had the same complaint in 2011. It took three weeks then. AHS does not care. I have to buy repair parts from Air Zone. It is an organized screwing of the policy holders of AHS.
Reviewed May 11, 2012
I have had AHS for over 4 years now. In this time frame, I have only used them a handful of times and it never fails, there is always a problem. I pay my $60 service charge and the contractor calls in the repair and AHS says there is no coverage for the item. Now I always call in and explain in detail what the problem is and they say it's covered and sending someone out. They get there and guess what? All of a sudden, it's not covered and I'm still responsible for the co-pay. When I called AHS to discuss the issue, of course, they have no record of me speaking to anyone about my particular issue. They are seriously ripping people off. I cancelled my contract today!
Reviewed May 11, 2012
AC unit broke down. They refused to replace unit, fix the existing one or even email me or telephone me.
Reviewed May 7, 2012
First time calling in, been on hold over fifteen minutes, tried placing service call online, their preferred service request website. System down, response - apologize for system error. I was warned about this company and previous reviews, should have listened. Their service response is awful!
Reviewed May 5, 2012
My A/C is not cooling. AHS contractors could never come out on time. I ended up calling another contractor and paying out of pocket. Just now I called a contractor who is with AHS, he could come out today before he found out I am with AHS. Once he found out I am with AHS, he can't come out till Wednesday, 4 days away! How about the wait time on the phone? I have been on the phone 39 minutes. Still waiting! This has consumed all my weekend, calling them back over again to find a contractor who can come out earlier.
Reviewed May 4, 2012
They gave me a contractor that does not answer the phone, nor can I leave a message for them. AHS tells me ten days to get a part (refrigerator). This is not what I paid for or was told.
Reviewed May 2, 2012
A/C went out. I called American Home Shield and after waiting for 20 minutes on hold, they would not send a tech out to repair for days. I lived in Texas and the temperatures are in the 90's. Ridiculous! Do not use this company.
Reviewed May 1, 2012
AHS fails to deliver again. This is not my first disappointment with American Home Shield. I have been waiting a week for a plumber to come out and clear a clogged drain in my bathroom. As soon as he walked in the door, he told me he probably could not fix the problem because all he had for tools was his little handyman special drain snake. It looked like a very cheap model (mine is better and only cost me $9.99). Anyhow, he worked at the problem for about 3 to 5 minutes before telling me his snake wouldn't go around the corner, so it would have to be done from the roof and his company was not allowed to do that.
He told me he would try to contact AHS later this afternoon to let them know. When I contacted AHS and tried to get a new plumber to come and do the work, they told me they had to wait for him to call them before re-assigning the ticket. They said they would not transfer it to another company until the first one admitted they would not repair the problem. They also stated they were still going to pay the technician for the service call in spite of the fact he told me he could not fix the problem before he even looked at it.
Even though I have already waited a week and he told me he would "try to call them in a few hours,” AHS will not do anything to get my issues fixed even though I have already had to take a day off work to wait for this guy. I am now at the mercy of AHS yet again because they hire incompetent companies that are not capable of doing the repairs for which they have been dispatched. It sounds like I will probably have to call someone and pay for the full amount out of pocket.
Reviewed April 30, 2012
I was already upset that I had not had a claim, and already, they were raising my rates and my co-pay. Then, my ice maker started leaking. I called on 4-25-12 to report it and was told that Sears would call me the next day. Well, 4 days passed with no call. So I called back and was told it would be 5-15-12 before Sears could get out. Thank God, it was not my water heater leaking. So I called 4-30-12 to cancel my coverage, since it is worthless. I was told they would charge me $30 to cancel my contract 9 days early! I feel they were trying to push my repair date to after my renewal, so I would then have to pay more.
Reviewed April 27, 2012
Slab leak - In a three in square area, the floor tile was hot. We knew this; we could feel the heat. We have the worthless Home Shield. We called and asked them to send someone out that could pinpoint the leak. They sent Grace Plumbing, a local company. We asked their staff before coming out if they had the instrument to pinpoint the leak. We were told yes. We paid out $600 co-pay. That's okay. The ** here is they didn't have the equipment to pinpoint the leak. We knew nothing more than the hot spot we felt with our feet. Their claim is maximum of $500 for this type thing. That's okay but they are sending a check for $410 because they say that is what they had to pay Grace Plumbing. What give them the right to deduct this money from an agreed amount? They won't answer. So I paid $150 to a company that didn't tell me more than I felt with my feet. Everybody else would give us free estimate. When I approached their vender, they were rude and offered no refund. Do not waste your money with this worthless company.
Reviewed April 24, 2012
I needed AHS to schedule a plumber to fix a plumbing problem I was having. After three days of not hearing anything from anybody, I decided to call the plumbing company that was assigned to this task directly. The plumbing company would not alter their daily route so I could be home at 2PM. When I asked AHS to find a different company, they told me "No, because they meet our guidelines." When I asked about the customer needs, they said "Sorry, but the plumbing company meets our guidelines." I do not recommend American Home Shield. The second biggest mistake I made was paying for a year contract upfront. Do not waste your money with this scam of a company.
Reviewed April 23, 2012
Due to being stationed in another state, my current home in NC became a rental property. I have had AHS for over 5 years and have never had great service with them. My garage door openers stopped working and I had to have them replaced. The company that they contracted with never received payment, even though I paid the $60.00 service fee. I had to pay out of pocket over $750.00 for garage door openers to be replaced that was clearly covered under my plan.
Two weeks ago, my tenant called about the AC unit upstairs not cooling. I placed a service request with AHS. Five days later, a tech called my tenant to schedule. When he came out, he diagnosed the problem and phoned AHS with his quote. When the service company did not show back up to do the work, my tenant called to see what the issue was and she was told that AHS denied his request and cancelled his work order, never notifying myself or my tenant. When I called again, the problem was dispatched again. This time, it took 4 days to get a response. The tech came out and basically did a patch job instead of fixing the initial problem. I am not planning to renew my contract with AHS this year after 5 years of being a customer due to the poor service and communication. I do not recommend this company.
Reviewed April 18, 2012
Garage door opener trolley got twisted because stop was corroded and couldn't lift the door. Spring is only 3 years old. Tech came out and wrote 2 remarks. Door was too heavy (surprise, I didn't know the door can gain weight, it has been the same door for 20 years) and neutral lift stays open on its own (probably due to corrosion). He also wrote "door needs to be weighted". AHS denied claim against door opener because they said the door gained weight. Last year, they denied claim on outside A/C because parts were also corroded due to water hitting parts. Hello, it’s an outside unit. They take your money and never pay on claims.
Reviewed April 18, 2012
After making an initial service call on 4-6-2012, the tech came out and fixed the item but also informed us that eventually this item would need replacing, simply because of age. Needless to say less than 2 weeks later, it went out again but this time it was recommended to replace the igniting mechanism. This of course is not an item they carry and would have to be ordered (earliest delivery 3-4 days). After calling the AHS representative, I informed her that I have a 100% disabled veteran in the home and I work five days a week. I told her that I needed hot water and asked if they can overnight this part. Her response was basically we have to let it go through the system. As soon as my contract ends this May 2012, I will find another service. They have no empathy or real customer service whatsoever. Of course, they never miss a deduction for payment.
Reviewed April 17, 2012
I am with this company for 11 years and they cannot handle even the slightest issues without major problems.
My toilet backed up and the guy can't find my main clean out. He said I had to install at over $1,000. I called a competent guy and he found and resolved my problem. Of course, I had to pay my $65 service fee and the new guy. This was Friday, I ended up having to stay at a hotel for 2 nights at another $250 as apparently a toilet isn't a necessity for AHS, which is really surprising as the all full of crap!
Last Friday, I have a water heater problem, no issue as long as I didn’t need hot water for more than 3 days, Tuesday before it is resolved. I asked them why I have no email confirmation and asked to re-email the confirmation. Monica ** in Tennessee, a supervisor, told me she isn't "required" to resend. I found out they average the charges from the service provides and lowest average gets the calls. So the guy who does the least to fix something is rewarded with more business. What a waste of money and I feel foolish they have taken me for many years.
Reviewed April 15, 2012
After being a customer with AHS for quite a while, we refinanced. Consequently, we had to inform AHS so that the premium would not be deducted through our mortgage and that we would like to pay through our credit card. The nice lady on the phone mentioned that our outdoor spa would not be covered since it is not built into the ground (it's built into the deck) and that she would recommend that I contact their finance department to get the amount from the last year reimbursed. What a great service, I thought! Oh well, was I mistaken. She had to close our old contract and open a new one. That being said, the finance department denied my request of reimbursement. I called, wrote letters, etc. Finally, I gave up.
Now, we decided that we don’t want to have this insurance anymore. I called to cancel. That was in February. The service rep did not cancel the existing contract. He only cancelled the new contract as of May 5th. I noticed the charge on my credit card and called them again. They said that they have to listen to the call to ensure that I really wanted to cancel both contracts and they will contact me again. Of course, I am now in the same situation as I was at the beginning. Nobody ever called me back. I am so angry with this company. What a hoax. People should be aware of these practices. I just hope that the contract is over in May and that I really don’t have to ever deal with them again. How they can be still in business is a big mystery to me.
Reviewed April 12, 2012
Horrible Scam - Don't be duped! We have had this service since purchasing a home in 2001 (stupid us). That's 11 years. In those 11 years, they have fixed a number of minor issues, but when it came time to step up to the plate and take care of the "big fix", they came up with excuses as to why they could not fix the problem. I feel violated by this company. In fact, on one repair, they sent out 3 technicians to uncover the cause of a leak in our front a/c system. We paid for two of those visits. They still could not find the leak. It ultimately caused the loss of over 1,000 square feet of laminate flooring, to the tune of $8,000. Should they have found the repair and fixed it, we would not have incurred such a cost.
I finally found the leak on the back of an exposed PVC pipe and made the repair. It was simple and should have been an easy fix. Do not ever buy a warranty from this company. You will regret the money you dumped into this company. Put your funds in a savings account and pay for your own service. They are a racket and inscrutable. I cannot tell you how far you should stay away from AHS. We are cancelling our warranty as well as the one on our primary residence. They have lost 2 home warranties and we will share our experiences with as many people who will listen! After posting this review on AHS, I will be surprised if this review makes it on their website.
Reviewed April 11, 2012
Buyer beware! I've been a customer for 3 years. I called today to ask for service for my trash compactor. They informed me it is not covered. She put me on hold to find out if I could add it to my policy during the "add or delete" month. It could not be added. I called back and asked if I started a new policy, would my trash compactor be covered? "Yes, under our new 3 by 3 policy, trash compactors are covered". A paying customer for 3 years was denied coverage on an appliance, but a new customer magically gets coverage? Sounds like to me they will do anything to get a new customer while not taking care of their existing customers. If this is the ethics of a company you're thinking of doing business with, buyer beware.
Reviewed April 10, 2012
Water heater not working for 2 months: The pilot for the water heater wouldn't light. AHS sent a tech from Plumbing Aid (worst company ever). It was said we needed a new thermocoupling, which would take 3-4 days. I called and called to find out it's been back ordered and that I gotta wait another week. A month and a half went by, my husband got tired of waiting. He contacted Sears and located the part, then he went and bought it for $60.
The part was installed, but it's still not working. The tech came out again and said the gas control valve was bad. Then I waited a week for part to come out, and he came and installed it. It is worse now. He said a supervisor needs to come and that it will take a week for him to come out and probably need to order another part which will take another week.
They put in an order for a new water heater, but AHS denied it. So now, they're playing around with me, my time, and the water heater. Bottom line is there's still no hot water. This is ridiculous. We called multiple times to complain to AHS, but everybody is so rude, unhelpful, and disrespectful. They shouted, wouldn't allow me to speak, and refused to help. I have hired a lawyer to help me resolve this issue.
Reviewed April 10, 2012
First of all, I want to complain about AHS' total lack of customer service. Phone wait time anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour and then they just hang up on you. Service requests are less than timely, anywhere from 2 weeks to make the service call. They seem to use Sears for all their repairs and everyone knows that Sears is notorious for poor customer service. So, I have a tenant with an unusable dishwasher for over 3 months now and still waiting for AHS contractors to submit info to AHS. I sell and manage many homes and will be absolutely certain to tell everyone I contact not to use AHS. I just found out that there is a class action suit against this company. I guess I am not the only one.
Reviewed April 10, 2012
I have AHS and my daughter had Old Republic Home Warranty. My daughter had to pay annually for the first year then automatic draft after that. She got considerably better service through ORHW and they actually replaced the items they said they would in their contract, regardless of installation previously. They truly represent customer satisfaction! I would suggest trying to purchase their warranty.
Reviewed April 9, 2012
On March 23, I met with the HVAC representative for a local company at my property. After inspecting the unit, he called AHS and explained the unit was unsafe, old, and could not get any parts. AHS called another company just to look at the ducting, which was ok and was not a problem. Both companies AHS contacted to look at the unit are very reputable companies in our area. AHS is now calling in a third company to look at the unit.
Apparently, they will look within a 25-mile range for a company. There is only one HVAC AHS-approved company where the property is located, and the closest company is approximately 30 miles away. As of today, April 9, 2012, I still do not have any heat in this house. I have been a customer with AHS since 1998, and I can definitely say the service AHS gives to their customers is really bad the last couple of years. I'm thinking of not renewing my policy when it is due.
Reviewed April 3, 2012
The first of Feb 2012, my dishwasher would not drain the water out so I called AHS. I have had part after part replaced and still no dishwasher. Whenever I called AHS, there was another excuse after another on why the technician did not come as scheduled or why the part did not arrive in time, etc.
Now, on March 23 2012, I actually had AHS to order me a new dishwasher due to this one is un-repairable. They ordered the dishwasher and told me 5-7 days. I called today 04/02/2012 and they told me it was on back order that it will be an additional 3-5 days. They stated it was on back order when I ordered it but no one ever told me. It’s been almost 2 months of washing dishes. I have not yet dealt with AHS for repairs prior and I have had this contract for years. The first time I use them, I get the worst treatment and service.
Reviewed April 2, 2012
American Home Shield denied coverage to an air conditioner repair, claiming the unit was not cleaned properly. I have cleaning/service invoices for the past three years by the company that installed the unit. I have filed with the Texas Attorney General, made a formal complaint to American Home Shield and plan to file in small claims court this week.
Reviewed April 2, 2012
I have submitted several requests where the contractor comes out and says only part of the repair is covered and the other is not. To avoid them paying for the repair or replacement, they use this excuse. The most recent was my sewer drain. The contractor only talked to me at my front door and would not come in to review the issue. Now, they say I owe them a service fee. If the contractor does not come in to review my problem or at least examine the issue with his own eyes, I should not be held responsible. Also, I asked them to give me time to leave work to meet the contractor and the contractor came over way outside the agreed upon time. I had to leave work early to meet the service guy, who then would not come in to check out the problem.
I ended up going to Home Depot and purchasing an electric 25 ft. to 30 ft. sewer line rod. I cleared my own line in 15 minutes. The device cost me $149.00. No one should join service with AHS. Use another home warranty provider. This is the 6th time AHS has not helped me. I had to clean my own dishwasher, fixed my own dryer, and I even purchased a new dishwasher (again) after paying $60.00 for AHS service. AHS has cost me $360.00 for someone to come out and say they can not work on my issue. Add another $60.00 for them fixing my fridge one time. Now, my AC is on the brink and I can not even submit a request for service.
Reviewed March 31, 2012
In June of 2011, our air condition went out. In Houston Texas, this is a problem. It is hot here. Not only that but I have a medical condition with my lungs were it is hard to breathe even in the cool air. I took a day off work to meet the repairmen that AHS sent out. They were a little late, but Houston was in a drought and a lot of people were without air. I walked them out to the condenser and was told that it had blown up and had to be replaced. They wrote up a ticket with a bunch of charges (my air conditioning person said were bogus and should be included in installation) that added up to over $600, that they said AHS would not cover and I would have to pay. They spent about 40 minutes on the phone with AHS and then told me that it would be at least two weeks before this could be fixed. I told them with my health I could not wait two weeks. They suggested we call AHS and do what is called a buy out which only means we would get it fixed and AHS would pay us back.
We called our air conditioning person out who installed a new condenser at cost for us so that I could have air. He only charges me $600. My husband faxed a copy to their office as they requested and we never heard from them. I wrote a letter to their main office and explained all of this and after a month or so, someone named Cindy called me and left a message stating they never received the invoice. We could not locate our original invoice so we contacted our repair person and got a copy. The writing was very light so I called Cindy back to get an address to mail this to. Of course, she never answered her phone out of the 20 some times that I called her and she would only call my home number during working hours knowing we would not answer the phone because we too were at work and she would say this is Cindy returning your call. It was all a game to her. I called her from work at all hours of the day, but she never once answered her phone.
We saved them a lot of money and still they will not honor this claim. I hear there is a class action lawsuit against this company for just this same stuff. It has almost been one year and we still have not gotten our money back and now it looks as though we never will. I did turn in a report to the state insurance board and the BBB. Some people go to jail for Ponzi schemes, isn't this pretty much the same thing? They are taking money with the promise of something in return, but the only thing we are getting in return is aggravation. Can't something be done?
Reviewed March 30, 2012
A recent home inspection identified three faucet water leaks within our home. AHS claimed that water leaks were not covered but the coverage plan clearly states under "Core Coverage Plan" that leaks and breaks of water are covered. What is the point of purchasing coverage if the definition of a claim is only based upon your definition of a claim? I have read the customer testimonials and I would be seriously embarrassed to have that type of press. I assure you that my complaint will surpass this minimal opportunity to express my concerns.
Reviewed March 30, 2012
We called for service on your hot water heater that was not working. We were given the name of a company here in Traverse City that we never ever heard of and told they would call us to set up an appointment. Three days later, we still have not heard from them. When we called American Home Shield back to get another service provider, we were told that this is the only one in the area. We have been paying for this home warranty for four years. I can tell you that we are cancelling this policy immediately and taking legal action.
Reviewed March 28, 2012
We purchased our home Feb 15, 2012. We have had 4 service issues that were not covered: 1. Electrical outlets not working. We were told that wasn't covered. 2. Washing machine not operating correctly. We were told that wasn't covered 3. Another electrical issue was not covered, which is unrelated to earlier problem. 4. Roof leak not covered.
We have requested a cancellation of the said policy and full refund. So far, there is no response. The previous owners paid $400 and we paid $50 additional for supposed better coverage. This business is a total scam.
Reviewed March 27, 2012
Leak from upstairs plumbing through to first floor. The plumbing company sent out twice with quick fixes and never actually looking for the leak. I have wasted two days from work trying to get the leak fixed. Now, I'm going to cancel the policy and do it myself.
Reviewed March 27, 2012
The freezer started accumulating ice and leaking out. I called AHS for service. Sears came in 3 times since initial and 2 other calls, and so far, the problem repeats itself and gets even worse. Now, the other part is icing over and not keeping temperature. I called for the 4th time and told them that it is enough. Sears won't come for 4 days, and AHS refused to make a decision. (I'd say it is more than enough to be without refrigerator for 2 weeks out of 1 month.) Horrible customer service. Never buy AHS please. It is a scam.
Reviewed March 24, 2012
I am very dissatisfied with this company (American Home Shield) AHS 100%. They take the premium for the coverage and when you need anything repaired, they will never fix it. They hire shady contractors that do not favor the consumer in any way and they work with the insurance companies so that no repairs can be done under the insurance contract. I have few problems this year and every time I called them, they find a way not to fix the problem. For example, I had a faulty electrical outlets that did not work due to problems with the circuit breaker. When I called AHS, they sent their electrical contractor and he said that everything was fine and working, but that is totally untrue, and he did not do a good inspection.
The city code inspector went to check the home and found that the electrical outlets are not working, and a faulty switch breaker. That is completely the opposite of what the AHS contractor had said. I do not trust this company at all or their contractors. I am requesting that those outlets to be repaired as well as the switch breaker. I will be filing this complaint with the Better Business Bureau. I do not recommend this company to anyone and will not renew the insurance policy with them. It was a big mistake to get this insurance since they tell you that they will fix anything till you buy it, and then good luck trying to make them do repair service!
Reviewed March 23, 2012
I have at the moment a case against AIR PRO (Company used by AHS) with the County for an installation of a water heater (AquaTherm) without a permit or inspection. This unit was also leaking. A letter was sent to the Best Business Bureau. The case was closed and nothing was done to this irresponsible company. We all should sue them for the horrible service they provide to their customers!
I had open claims regarding a leaking on my garage with American Home Shield in many different occasions, but instead of them correcting the problem they just place parts that never stop the internal leaking. Therefore, now I'm facing over $3,000 in damage, including the replacement of the unit for which American Home Shield doesn’t even want to cover the full amount. We (me and my family) had to spend two weeks in the hotel until the repairs are done in my garage and in the house.
Reviewed March 22, 2012
My water heater needed to be replaced and feel that AHS should have replaced it. I have had this account for 17yrs., and paid upwards of $6,000. I should not have had to pay for a new water heater which was $801.00, plus $60 service fee.
Reviewed March 22, 2012
I have had AHS warranty since 2005. They auto draft a monthly payment on the 30th of each month. Every year when my contract has come up for renewal, I have received a notice in the mail. This year, however, my contract renewed in February but I did not receive notification. Last night while looking over my checking account, I noticed they had debited my account on March 21st for $43.95. My payment is supposed to be $39.95. I called AHS to find out why the increase and why the early draft. I was told my contract had renewed in February and my monthly premium had increased. I was also told the draft was actually late because they did not receive payment in February so it was February's payment on 21st March. I was told they would be taking another $43.95 out on March 30th. AHS never notified me of the contract renewal or the double payment.
Reviewed March 21, 2012
I did business with AHS for about five years. I just paid them. I hardly ever made any service calls. What I found out is that if the job is cheap, they will cover it. If it is expensive, then they will find ways to waive the coverage. My tub faucet was leaking. Simple, right? Well, the guy they sent to my home took the whole thing apart then claimed that the screws were loose. He said that someone had tried to fix it before and apparently made the damage worst! AHS waived the coverage so I had to hire another contractor and I ended up paying $600-plus.
When the renewal came due in September, I decided I wanted nothing to do with AHS and I never renewed. AHS kept calling and sending emails asking me to come back. By approximately March, I decided to give them one more try and I sent in the payment. Keep in mind my contract had already been cancelled. Well, they decided to to make my contract effective from September instead of March when I restarted the contract! At that point, I said to them that I wanted my money back. To this day—about 10 years later—they have yet to pay me. Not only that, but they have also sent my account to a collection agency! I filed a formal complaint with Consumer Affairs. But let's face it, that's the state. Ain't nothing ever going to happen. Do not fall in the trap. AHS should be shut down for good.
Reviewed March 19, 2012
My central AC units have been out for a week and still nothing is repaired or replaced! My 70-year old mom is baking in the house as we speak because we have to go through yet another company for the 2nd or 3rd review or inspection to see the problem. Two separate companies have told AHS that the units are fried and need to be replaced. As a result of them not actually repairing the problem, we were told not to turn on the fan of either unit because the wiring looks bad and it may cause a fire! So we have tons of fans going while all our kids sleep in the living room and they just won't pay up and replace the units! We have been with them for years, but this is beyond horrible. If my mom dies of a heat stroke, we will know who to call for wrongful death suit!
Reviewed March 14, 2012
My contract with American Home Shield ended in October 2011. Normally, when I don't renew by then, they cancel me and I would have to renew. This time, they are continuing to bill me even though I have not renewed. Now they claim I have to cancel. I have cancellations letters from them in the past and further, I also called and canceled and they told me it was not accepted over the phone when I called them a week before my plan ended. They are scamming me now by sending me to a collection agency called Transworld System in Chesterfield, MO 63017 314-514-2670.
Reviewed March 13, 2012
AHS is not cooperating with our calls on our fridge. It's been repaired over and over for 2 years, and it's not holding the temps. My kids' drink milk that is spoiled and get sick most often. And I have one child who will no longer drink milk because he thinks it's spoiled. Also our ice melts and refreezes, and so does all the other food in there too.
But today the worker came out, and the temps were good. So AHS said do nothing for them and leave. Also, my stove hood is broken. They send 2 people out here to look at it, and now, they are saying they need 3 to 5 days to look for parts. Why is it so when the other people said it needs to be replaced? In 2010, they sent a fan repair person out. He wired the fans wrong, and he never came back to fix it. So finally, I had to call another repair person and pay the $60.00 again. I can tell you they are not getting my good rating until they fix these issues mentioned above.
Reviewed March 12, 2012
I have been an AHS customer for approximately 2 years. I have had two service calls and was completely dissatisfied with the service, or lack thereof. The first case was my home heating system stopped working on a Friday afternoon, when it was a wind chill of 10 degrees, and a forecasted high of only 30 degrees for the weekend.
I was advised that service provider would call. When they finally did call, they advised it was after hours and not an emergency and they would come out on Tuesday to assess the system. I had to move my elderly grandmother to a hotel for four days until they would come and service the heating system. The second case was my stand alone freezer. When I called for service I was advised that I didn't have coverage for a standalone freezer. I explained that I purchased a warranty for this property and was told that “all appliances" at this insured property were covered. Then when I have a service call they are now saying it only covers what a "standard" home would have, one refrigerator, one microwave, one dishwasher etc. I have two full kitchens and was never told that the warranty only covers one kitchen. I was told it covers "all appliances in the insured property".
I advised them that they were no longer authorized to deduct warranty payments, and they told me I would have to call some other number in order to cancel payments. AHS does not service their contracts, their sales people misinform and mislead customers into believing that their appliances are covered for 24/7 service and that all appliances in the house are covered, until you try to call for service.
Reviewed March 12, 2012
I have had an account with the company for 17 years and have barley used the service. My water heater went out, and I was charged $800+, +$60 service fee. I feel that the hot water heater should have been replaced by American Home Shield. I have paid upwards of $6,000 for the length of this contract, and you should replace the water heater.
Reviewed March 12, 2012
I have been without my washer for a month now due to horrible service from American Home Shield! It took numerous days for a serviceman from Sears to come out (too busy they said). When they did finally show up, a replacement kit had to be ordered. That took about 4 days, but then no service for another week.
Finally, the Sears serviceman arrived and installed the parts. The washer worked for about 10 loads, but it is now doing the same thing it was before the parts were installed. I can't get a service person to come back for the recall and American Home Shield doesn't care! I have made about 6 phone calls to the company and all they do is pass the buck onto another person! I am very angry at this point and want to warn other people about this company!
Reviewed March 9, 2012
American Home Shield does not hold their word on their contract! They claimed they would replace my dishwasher, after it was no longer working and could not be fixed. I've been paying for this insurance service close to 17 years! The replacement department has a number that has an answering machine on it that no one answers! I have been on hold for over 1 to 2 hours each time! My phone bill will reflect that! I've called the main number so many times, complaining that no one answers the phone number that was given to me, to replace my dishwasher.
I even spoke to a supervisor, and each time they said, they don't handle that department and there was nothing they could do! This has been going on for over a month, and I am documenting the date and the time. I still have had no luck! This is so wrong! I've asked if there was a website or another number I could try, and the supervisor said no. I am not sure what I can do! Does anybody have any ideas! Help!
Reviewed March 9, 2012
In September, we received in our mortgage payment envelope an invitation to have American Home Shield cover our home. We signed up for it in September and it went into effect in December. Yesterday, March 8, 2012, we turned on our AC for the first time and it didn't work. We called AHS to get service. When the service person arrived, he said he had to call AHS to get approval to make the repair. Come to find out that they will not authorize the repair. Their reason was that we were covered for a heat pump and not for central AC. We were never asked if we had a heat pump or a furnace with central air. We simply sent in the form that was in our mortgage envelope. It would seem that we would be covered for any malfunction of our heating and cooling. The supervisor said we were sent a policy in the mail and we should have read the policy. Has anyone ever tried to read a warranty or insurance policy? I'm a realtor in Winston Salem, NC and I don't ever intend to sell another AHS warranty to my clients. With treatment like this, I would be making my clients angry with me for suggesting they use AHS. I’m totally dissatisfied and angry!
Reviewed March 6, 2012
I have been with AHS for about two years and find their service and support to the worst I have ever seen and fully support a class action lawsuit. I called AHS of Friday March 2 at about 7ish and requested an emergency work order on my AC unit in the attic. I turned the system off to stop the water leak. AHS said that they placed the emergency work order and would have someone call within two hours, no calls. March 3, very cold in the house with a six-week old baby. I called and ask for a status update and to speak with a supervisor. "Okay, no one can take your service call. Can you call someone local and have them call us (AHS)?" I explained to them that I was not an AHS marketing rep and it's not my job to locate vendors to make repairs. It's AHS' job. They stated I could pay for it and get reimbursed. I have been down that road with AHS, not again. I told them no. AHS finds the repairmen, not me. After three times calling Saturday, March 3rd, I still have no services provided to an emergency work request.
March 4th, I called again and got told that AHS would call and get a status update and call back within two hours. No calls. I called and was told that the company would be calling me and making arrangements. I got no calls but called them and no answer from them so I called AHS and explained no answer from the vendor. They said, "We will call you in two hours." I spoke to a supervisor and explained the situation, "We're sorry, sir. We will call you in two hours." No call. Monday, I called and explained that due to AHS and their vendor not servicing the problem in a timely manner that the sheet rock on the ceiling was coming down from the water leak. AHS responded, "We are sorry, sir. We do not cover secondary damages." If they would have serviced the issue in a timely manner, we would not have secondary damages. I have had enough of AHS and their in ability to service the customer which causes further damages to the home. An emergency work order is just that, an emergency. Please spread the word that AHS is nothing but a scam and is nothing but a money theft ring. I will be calling the Georgia Department of Insurance Commissioner and filing a formal complaint.
Reviewed March 5, 2012
My annual contract was changed and no one notified me. They just kept on charging my credit card on file without telling me they were changing the service call fees from $45 to $75. I tried cancelling the contract but they just kept passing me from department to department for 45 minutes. I expect a full refund and my contract cancelled as of last year.
Reviewed March 5, 2012
I am a 65 year old female, who is disabled/retired, living on a fixed income. I started with these people when I bought my house in Dec. 2007. This insurance was recommended to me by the Realtor who handled the transaction. The only payments available were yearly (which I could not afford to do), or automatic withdrawal monthly by AHS, so I had to give them my bank information. At that time, I ask if they could set the withdrawal date for the 15th of each month, since that was when my disability check arrived.
I didn't notice a problem until Oct. 2010 when my contract would automatically renew, when my bank statement showed two payments were withdrawn. I contacted them, with profuse apologies they agreed not to charge me again until the next payment in Dec. 2010. But they never explained what happened.
Fast forward to Oct. 2011, at this time, they did the same exact thing, two withdrawals in one month, six days apart. Because I run a very tight budget, this time, it threw me into an overdraft, since both payments bounced. My bank charged me $60.00 in NSF fees. I wanted to know how this happened again. It seems my actual contract renewed on Oct. 22nd, but they took a payment on the 15th and again on the 22nd. So they blamed me. I thought when they agreed to move the withdrawal date to the 15th, that meant my contact date would also be moved. But, no, it stayed the same, so that every Oct. they would take two payments and had I not requested for my contract to bill on the 15th, there would be no problem.
I still don't understand this business practice, but I told them I expected them to return my second payment and reimburse the NSF fees. Six different "customer care specialists", which included the department supervisor, agreed. I did receive a check for the second payment. But I continued to go back and forth with only getting excuses.
After fighting with them until Jan. 2012, I finally realized it wasn't going to happen and I would just forget about it. So luck would have it, the very next day, I received a notice in the mail announcing a class action law suit against and I was eligible to participate. If any of you folks are interested to file a claim, go to ** and follow the directions. After seeing how many complaints were voiced, these folks need to be run out of business. If they would do this to an elderly, disabled person, they'd do it to anybody.
Reviewed March 4, 2012
There are lots of long hold times to get to customer service, when you are cancelling your contract. Then, they say that only Accounting Services, which is open from 8AM to 5PM, Mondays-Fridays, has the authority to cancel the contract. Working people do not have time for long holds from their job. Even if you are lucky to get through, they say that we do not send email confirmation for cancellation of contracts. The official letter would come in the mail in 14-21 business days. 5 weeks went by, and I haven’t received the letter yet. We learned that Accounting Services has not yet received your cancellation notice, because you did not speak to them directly.
Somehow, they still do not have your cancellation request, and therefore the bill will still continue coming to your address. You will get the invoices for 2-3 cycles, threatening to report to a national collection agency, if invoices are not paid. It has been a nightmare to cancel a contract, or have them remove your credit card information from their file. Good luck. I would never recommend them for the aggravation I have been through, just for them to simply remove my credit card information, and cancel my contract. They do not even acknowledge your written request, and they do not send confirmation of cancellation over the email, in contrast to the enrollment procedure, which takes place in just a few minutes, and everything is done electronically.
Reviewed March 2, 2012
The light on our ice & water dispenser stopped working. American Home Shield sent their contractor, Bay Appliances, to repair. They said 2 parts were needed; a socket and a light bulb, but they were on back order. I waited for one month and called the vendor for the actual part numbers. I went online and found the part numbers in one minute! They were inexpensive and immediately available. I gave this information to both the contractor and American Home Shield so they could expedite the repair. They both said they had to use their part supplier and that both parts were still on back order.
This is horrible customer service. This repair should and could have been completed within a few days. Both the contractor & American Home Shield are unapologetic and unwilling to obtain the parts from the online vendor that I found. Do not use American Home Shield!
Reviewed March 1, 2012
I'm trying to cancel my contract with AHS at the end of my first year contract. I was definitively not satisfied with the handling of the first case when we needed the AHS plan. The A/C controller card broke down in our (single unit) A/C during the coldest period in Savannah this year. First, we found out that AHS boasting 24/7 service turns out to only mean scheduling and not actually doing something until the first work day! If it’s not deemed life threatening, what kind of question is that? Secondly, we decided to pay the extra fee for emergency service on Sunday to the subcontractor (Action Air Conditioning & Heating Co, Inc.). Although the tech that came to our house was friendly and did what he could, the responsible leader of this company did not treat this as an emergency after we had paid and did not even follow up ordering the part they did not have in stock until I called them after lunch the following work day!
Furthermore, the leader was downright rude, ineffective and not service minded. The part was not replaced until Wednesday after many phone calls by my self. Our house was not far from freezing levels at that time point. Despite that I called AHS several times and AHS was not able or willing to push the contractors to do their job! If AHS had done so, they could have had the part in by Monday evening! I would have organized this better myself. This is not what I expect from professionals. Thus, I simply end my contract with AHS. And I strongly recommend AHS to find another contractor for A/C in Savannah, GA!
Reviewed Feb. 27, 2012
As a result of Hurricane Irene, I had $27,000 worth of damage to my basement. After a week or so, I had mold growing in my basement. Balboa gave me a verbal okay to get the mold remediation done. A claims adjustor came out and I gave them the bill, which was about $7,000. After Balboa finished processing my claim, they told me that they were only going to be able to give me $5,000! Are you kidding me? That didn't even cover the mold remediation, or any of my personal belongings. I lost almost everything in my basement, furniture, fitness equipment, clothes, shoes, etc. Balboa didn't cover the cost of any of this. I got stuck with the balance of the mold remediation bill that I am still paying to this day. Thank God they are working with me and letting me pay them a little every month. I'm now in the process of repairing my basement a stage at a time and paying for it out of my pocket. I am canceling Balboa ASAP!
Reviewed Feb. 26, 2012
I thought I had a stoppage in my bathroom plumbing line. I called American Home Shield (AHS) and asked them to send a plumber. I knew that would be near impossible because all the plumbers I had talked to in my area refused to do business with them. At any rate AHS told my they would try to locate a plumber within 2 hrs, if unsuccessful I could use my own plumber. AHS couldn't find anyone. I called my local plumber that I have used for many years. He came out and took a look and told me that I had a breakage under my house due to wear and raw sewage was leaking under there as well as methane gas which is the by product of raw sewage.
I called AHS and told them this information. My plumber also called them and spent an hour on the phone with them trying to make them understand the danger this posed to my home and health. He also submitted an estimate. I was told by rep that I would need a second opinion. I agreed to that. She told me she would have to locate a plumber to come out. She actually found someone then. So this guy, Larry, comes out, looks under my house and runs a snake out toward the road. What he pulls out may or may not be a small piece of clay pipe, definitely not roots. He tells me my line is clear and if there is a breakage it should be fine because of the soil around it... really?
I called my original plumber to tell him that they had fixed it and that it was just a stoppage. He tells me, no. There are multiple breaks under your house and you are at risk. The second plumber will need to run a camera under the house to see it, not just shine a flashlight. Here is a quote from my plumber" Had a Customer in Rockdale call about a stoppage. Upon arrival, I checked under his house to find raw sewage in a couple of major areas. His buried sewer line under the house was cast iron and falling apart due to "Normal wear". Suggested he call his warranty company that he has been paying since he bought his home 15 years ago. They asked me to give them an Estimate on required repairs. I gave them a very low price to replace. They told me they were going to get another quote (normal practice by Insurance Co's). This was not a problem because the Home Owner's other bathroom was working fine. American Home Shield (AHS) called a Plumbing Company (out of College Sta.) to unclog his sewer and paid him $300? Now he has City Sewer Gas in his house! This is a dangerous situation. Methane is odorless, explosive not to mention Deadly.
The Plumber only unclogged the line and made no repairs because "That is all they were called out to do by AHS" The Tub/Shower can not be used or water will run out on to the ground under his house. Keep in mind, the home owner originally wanted me to unclog his sewer... until I explained that he would need the Sewer replaced immediately afterwards due to the breaks in his line (Both, above and below ground...and all under his house). That is when he requested me to call AHS. Comes now, AHS is refusing to pay for any more work. Simply because they claim he had a stoppage and now it is fixed? My customer of several years is beside himself as to what to do!"
I called the second plumber and asked him what he was paid to do at my house. Was it for a second opinion? He got loud and angry fast and told me he was paid to fix a stoppage which he did. I agreed that he did fix the stoppage. But what about the break in my line? He got more angry and stated that "I was paid to come out, that there was a stopped up line not about a breakage and AHS told they are not going to fix it. It is over, I was not sent to fix a busted line under your house" and we exchanged strong opinions over the matter.
I called AHS and was told by yet another rep that the stoppage was fixed and the case is closed. After reviewing my contract, I called again to report a new problem... a break in my line. I was told they'd need to send someone out to check. I told them not to send Larry but then was told that he was the only one they would send or I could pay to have one of my own. So I agreed to have him come back out but this time to look for a break in the line under my house. Did he? No, he promptly told them that the breakage was outside out my home's foundation and there were roots in the line... two thing AHS doesn't cover, mind you, this was after I called him and asked him what he was paid to do. So I get call from AHS and spoke to a rep who said, and I quote,"We will not honor our warranty until you fix the main line breakage." This is not in my contract. No where does it state that repairs must be made anywhere on my property before they will honor their warranty. Be sure to note that they were involved in a class action lawsuit settlement for breech of contract. The litigation is about not making repairs and replacement per the contract. As it stands I still have a breakage and a lake of raw sewage under my home.
Reviewed Feb. 24, 2012
A few years back, my water heater went bad. I contacted AHS. A tech came and replaced the water heater. I paid $60. A couple of months later, the new water heater started leaking from a coupling. I called AHS, they sent a tech and he found that the company who replaced the water heater used the wrong type of coupling. The bigger issue was, there was also a leak behind the drywall that was also caused by the previous company. I'm not sure how they did that, I paid $60.
AHS approved the work. However, I was left with a 3' x 4' hole in my drywall. AHS approved the repair of the drywall. However, they will not pay for the removal of the water heater, so the drywall guy can do what he does. I have to pay $100 to have the water heater removed. This is something that was caused by faulty work of an AHS-approved tech which is now my responsibility. By the way, I've been an AHS customer for 13 years. Somehow this doesn't seem right.
Reviewed Feb. 22, 2012
I have had this policy for just less than one year. I recently called for two problems. My pool heater was not working. A pool repair person came out and told me that mud daubers caused the problem and it wasn’t covered. Charge $60. I decided to put in a new heat pump. When the pool company came to install it (not the same pool company), they told me the element was not faulty and it was the circuit breaker that was bad and mud daubers were nowhere near it.
Then I called for an electrician to check a floor electrical outlet. After not being contacted for a week, I went online and put in a request. 4 days later, I called and was told they had no record. The electrician came out did not bring a tracer to locate the line in the floor and proceeded to take every out and light switch apart. I was left with a broken switch plate, plaster all over and pool lights that no longer worked.
I called the next morning and told the company that he had all the light switches exposed and was checking them. When he replace the cover and put them back the pool light did not work and was concerned that I had a hot line exposed in the wall. The electric company did not call back and I called at 4pm. After being treated rudely by that firm, I called AHS and was treated again rudely. My contract comes up in April and I will not renew. Customer service is not what they have in mind.
Reviewed Feb. 22, 2012
They charged my credit card with 3 payments when I authorized one. In 2011, I received notice to renew my account with AHS. Listed on the form was 12 months, 3 months or pay in full. I sent in one payment toward the 12-month option. When I called regarding my water heater problem, I was told by the service person that they had spoken to someone who authorized the 3-month plan. I instructed the young lady that I was the only person who could have given permission and that was not the payment plan I chose. I want to receive from you an itemized statement explaining charges or fees. I want the total amount due without penalty. What was done is not acceptable. Please respond ASAP.
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