Having a home system or appliance break down is a real headache for any homeowner – unless you have America’s Preferred Home Warranty (APHW). If the system or appliance is covered, all you need to do is start a claim, choose your own licensed contractor, and get approval. It’s that easy.
But what if you don’t know which licensed contractor to choose for repairs? Our guide can help you find the right licensed contractor for your APHW claim, so you can have someone you trust working in your home.
Get referrals from family and friends
One of the best ways to find a good, licensed contractor is asking your friend and family network for referrals. Many APHW customers find that someone they know has worked with a local licensed contractor who they would happily recommend.
If you don’t have anyone in your area you can get referrals from, that’s not a problem! APHW has a list of nationwide contractors that customers have used for repairs to help. It’s a great place to get started on your search to choose your own licensed contractor.
Read ratings and reviews online
Whether you get referrals or not, it’s always a good idea to go online and read a contractor’s ratings and reviews. That way, you can see what other customers have experienced and get a better understanding of the contractor’s capabilities.
Most licensed contractors have a company website or social media page to promote their business. You can check the following websites to read reviews and narrow down your list:
- Yelp
If the contractor has good reviews from others in the community, there’s a good chance they have the knowledge and experience to get the job done right.
Ensure the contractor is licensed, bonded, and insured
A licensed, bonded, and insured contractor gives you more protection during the repair process. A license ensures the individual or company is skilled and legally able to perform the work, whereas a bond ensures the work will be completed as specified in the contract, and according to industry and state guidelines.
If an accident happens while a contractor is in your home, their insurance may help cover any injuries or damage. Licensing is important for another reason. APHW pays a claim only if repairs are performed by a licensed contractor. So choose a licensed contractor to make sure your claim goes smoothly.
Choose the right contractor for the job
If a covered appliance breaks down, you should choose a licensed contractor that specializes in that particular appliance. A general contractor may not have the specialized skills required. This also applies to your home’s systems.
Being able to choose your own licensed contractor with APHW helps support licensed contractors in your community. It also helps you find someone you trust to work in your home on your schedule, which is just one more benefit of having an APHW home warranty. And if you take the right steps, you’ll be able to choose a licensed contractor with confidence!
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