- Report: #359769
Complaint Review: American Home Shield - LaGrange Georgia
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American Home Shield
PO Box 609 LaGrange, 30241 Georgia, U.S.A.
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800-776-4663
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American Home Shield Lets consider a Class Action Lawsuit against AHS LaGrange Georgia
*Consumer Suggestion: Do not renew with this company
*Consumer Suggestion: File a Lawsuit
*Consumer Suggestion: who are the legit alternatives to AHS for home warranties
*Consumer Suggestion: who are the legit alternatives to AHS for home warranties
*Consumer Suggestion: who are the legit alternatives to AHS for home warranties
*Consumer Suggestion: who are the legit alternatives to AHS for home warranties
*Consumer Comment: Re: Unsubscribe00
* : Unsubscribe00 has valid points
Call me stupid, but I've been paying my AHS fees for more than 7 years now...
In 2004 I reported a loss of heating due to a leak in the compressor coil (I have a heat pump). The AHS assigned the Sunn Corporation (www.sunncorp.com) to take care of this problem. Two technicians showed up, pumped more freon into the leaking system, changed the thermostat and laughed at my request to fix the leaking coil. I called AHS to complain that the leak was not fixed, but was told that if the technician determined that there is no problem with the coil -- then nothing can be done about it. For four years I was putting more freon into the system and paying outrageous electrical bills. Finally (it helps to be an informed consumer) I read that no freon should be put into the system BEFORE detecting and fixing a leak. Well, two weeks ago I called AHS again demanding to FIX the leak. When the customer service assigned the Sunn Corporation, I had to remind them that this exact company refused to perform the proper diagnostic procedures in 2004. So, UnitedAir(?) was sent instead. Once again, a technician shows up and without checking anything, unless opening and closing the filter access is a new way to diagnose the system, tells me that both of my units are in good condition and will run for another 10 years (my indoor unit is over 24 years old and the outdoor unit is pushing 15 years). Thus, the only thing he has to do is to put more freon into the system, and I'll be a happy camper once again. When I told him that the leak has to be fixed before putting more freon, I was somewhat politely told that I'm not an HVAC specialist, while he is, and AHS will not authorize anything but more freon anyway. It ended with me requesting the technician to leave my house w/o doing anything.
So, what comes next? AHS representative claims that they have to go with what the technician determines. After numerous calls explaining that not fixing a leak is a breach of our contract, I was told that the Sunn Corporation is the only other company to service my area. Following these lengthy conversations, AHS representative promised to make sure that this time the problem will be taken care off.
Within 15 min of his arrival, technician from the Sunn Corporation determines that the coil has too many leaks and too old to be fixed, so both units will have to be replaced. A week passes by (the temperature remains in 90s), I receive a phone call from the Sunn Corporation about replacing my heat pump. The deal is that I pay $1180 out of my pocket for the number of outrageously overpriced "code" upgrades and will get the most basic system or pay more than $4000 for an upgraded one. It seems like a good deal, right?!. However, let's not forget that I was turned down by AHS four years ago with the same problem and my fees since then accumulated to about $2000. So, at this point the most basic system will cost me $3180 plus about $500 for servicing the dying unit, plus excessive electric bills for cooling/heating with the malfunctioning system, and I'm not even talking about the level of discomfort I had to put up with in these four years. By now, I am still waiting to hear how much my "cash out" option will be if I refuse to go along with extortion of $1180 by the Sunn Corporation.
AHS forces their contractors to lie to us, so no time is wasted on performing needed repairs/replacements or to rip us off on "not covered" expenses to offset the small amounts these contractors are getting from AHS for each service.
I believe it's time to explore the possibility of starting a Class Action Lawsuit against AHS. How many of you would be interested?
Raya
Rockville, Maryland
U.S.A.
In 2004 I reported a loss of heating due to a leak in the compressor coil (I have a heat pump). The AHS assigned the Sunn Corporation (www.sunncorp.com) to take care of this problem. Two technicians showed up, pumped more freon into the leaking system, changed the thermostat and laughed at my request to fix the leaking coil. I called AHS to complain that the leak was not fixed, but was told that if the technician determined that there is no problem with the coil -- then nothing can be done about it. For four years I was putting more freon into the system and paying outrageous electrical bills. Finally (it helps to be an informed consumer) I read that no freon should be put into the system BEFORE detecting and fixing a leak. Well, two weeks ago I called AHS again demanding to FIX the leak. When the customer service assigned the Sunn Corporation, I had to remind them that this exact company refused to perform the proper diagnostic procedures in 2004. So, UnitedAir(?) was sent instead. Once again, a technician shows up and without checking anything, unless opening and closing the filter access is a new way to diagnose the system, tells me that both of my units are in good condition and will run for another 10 years (my indoor unit is over 24 years old and the outdoor unit is pushing 15 years). Thus, the only thing he has to do is to put more freon into the system, and I'll be a happy camper once again. When I told him that the leak has to be fixed before putting more freon, I was somewhat politely told that I'm not an HVAC specialist, while he is, and AHS will not authorize anything but more freon anyway. It ended with me requesting the technician to leave my house w/o doing anything.
So, what comes next? AHS representative claims that they have to go with what the technician determines. After numerous calls explaining that not fixing a leak is a breach of our contract, I was told that the Sunn Corporation is the only other company to service my area. Following these lengthy conversations, AHS representative promised to make sure that this time the problem will be taken care off.
Within 15 min of his arrival, technician from the Sunn Corporation determines that the coil has too many leaks and too old to be fixed, so both units will have to be replaced. A week passes by (the temperature remains in 90s), I receive a phone call from the Sunn Corporation about replacing my heat pump. The deal is that I pay $1180 out of my pocket for the number of outrageously overpriced "code" upgrades and will get the most basic system or pay more than $4000 for an upgraded one. It seems like a good deal, right?!. However, let's not forget that I was turned down by AHS four years ago with the same problem and my fees since then accumulated to about $2000. So, at this point the most basic system will cost me $3180 plus about $500 for servicing the dying unit, plus excessive electric bills for cooling/heating with the malfunctioning system, and I'm not even talking about the level of discomfort I had to put up with in these four years. By now, I am still waiting to hear how much my "cash out" option will be if I refuse to go along with extortion of $1180 by the Sunn Corporation.
AHS forces their contractors to lie to us, so no time is wasted on performing needed repairs/replacements or to rip us off on "not covered" expenses to offset the small amounts these contractors are getting from AHS for each service.
I believe it's time to explore the possibility of starting a Class Action Lawsuit against AHS. How many of you would be interested?
Raya
Rockville, Maryland
U.S.A.
8 Updates & Rebuttals
justagirl7386
USAUnsubscribe00 has valid points
#2
Sun, August 16, 2009
First let me make you aware that I am a former employee of AHS, I worked in the LaGrange call center. While I am not an HVAC tech, I have had more conversations with said HVAC tech's than I'd care to remember.
I can't say that it's impossible to come to the conclusion that a coil is leaking by visual inspection only but I do believe it highly unlikely. The first thing the tech does when a homeowner complains the a/c isn't funtioning properly is recharge it with freon. IF that doesn't remedy the problem, the homeowner should contact AHS and place a recall. AHS will authorize a leak detection test after 3 lbs of freon have been placed in the unit with no improvement in function.
So, Unsubscribe00 isn't a moron. The point made that homeowners should read the contract is most valid. I'm not a Rhode Schloar and I was able to understand the contracts very clearly. Prior to taking the job with AHS I was an insurance agent for 18 years. I can assure you that the home warranty contract was a walk in the park to understand compared to in insurance policy...but homeowners never read those either.
The AHS contract clearly states that the homeowner can choose cash in lieu of repair, it's in the very first section of the contract. So, if a company presents you with exorbitant charges that the homeowner will be responsible for, take the cash in lieu for heavens sake! Better yet, bargain with the technician. If you'd hired them on your own and they presented you with some outrageous bill you'd question it and ask the company to reconsider those charges or you'd find a company with more reasonable rates.
I personally wouldn't have a home warranty contract if it was wrapped in gold because I want to have the say in who does repairs/replacement of the system and appliances in my home.
Inspector
Tobyhanna,Pennsylvania,
U.S.A.
Re: Unsubscribe00
#3Consumer Comment
Mon, July 20, 2009
"Next, look at the technician that is coming for the repair. If you question what he does, you should FIRST call the company that he came out from. If you do not accept the explanation that his supervisor gave to you, call YOUR WARRANTY COMPANY and see if what he did is normal practice. Be smart about your repairs and your HOME WARRANTY COMPANIES!!! They actually can save you money, in the long run. But a lot of common sense things you should catch YOURSELF..." YOU ARE A MORON! This is what's wrong with warranty companies these days. HE SAID the company would not help him, they would only give lame excuses. He did not have a minor problem, he had major leaks. I would have reported you and your technician to the EPA for releasing freon into the atmosphere. Maybe you should learn to read.
Choosevictorim
Nowhere,Louisiana,
U.S.A.
who are the legit alternatives to AHS for home warranties
#4Consumer Suggestion
Mon, July 20, 2009
unscriber00 reported that there are "good companies"-alternatives to AHS. Could you name some and in what states are they licensed to sell the home warranty product. The Home warranty product is a service contract. AHS has operated without obtaining the proper licensure to sell said product. In Texas, the RealEstate commision regulates home warranty service products. A homeowner in Arlington, Texas filed a complaint with Texas attorney general and was fortunate to get some money back, see this link http://www.instituteforlegalreform.com/component/ilr_news/30/article/I2976966584.html Check with your state Realestate commission and see if they regulate the likes of AHS. Meanwhile, who are these legit alternatives "Being a Victim or a Victor is a matter of Choice" Good Luck
Choosevictorim
Nowhere,Louisiana,
U.S.A.
who are the legit alternatives to AHS for home warranties
#5Consumer Suggestion
Mon, July 20, 2009
unscriber00 reported that there are "good companies"-alternatives to AHS. Could you name some and in what states are they licensed to sell the home warranty product. The Home warranty product is a service contract. AHS has operated without obtaining the proper licensure to sell said product. In Texas, the RealEstate commision regulates home warranty service products. A homeowner in Arlington, Texas filed a complaint with Texas attorney general and was fortunate to get some money back, see this link http://www.instituteforlegalreform.com/component/ilr_news/30/article/I2976966584.html Check with your state Realestate commission and see if they regulate the likes of AHS. Meanwhile, who are these legit alternatives "Being a Victim or a Victor is a matter of Choice" Good Luck
Choosevictorim
Nowhere,Louisiana,
U.S.A.
who are the legit alternatives to AHS for home warranties
#6Consumer Suggestion
Mon, July 20, 2009
unscriber00 reported that there are "good companies"-alternatives to AHS. Could you name some and in what states are they licensed to sell the home warranty product. The Home warranty product is a service contract. AHS has operated without obtaining the proper licensure to sell said product. In Texas, the RealEstate commision regulates home warranty service products. A homeowner in Arlington, Texas filed a complaint with Texas attorney general and was fortunate to get some money back, see this link http://www.instituteforlegalreform.com/component/ilr_news/30/article/I2976966584.html Check with your state Realestate commission and see if they regulate the likes of AHS. Meanwhile, who are these legit alternatives "Being a Victim or a Victor is a matter of Choice" Good Luck
Choosevictorim
Nowhere,Louisiana,
U.S.A.
who are the legit alternatives to AHS for home warranties
#7Consumer Suggestion
Mon, July 20, 2009
unscriber00 reported that there are "good companies"-alternatives to AHS. Could you name some and in what states are they licensed to sell the home warranty product. The Home warranty product is a service contract. AHS has operated without obtaining the proper licensure to sell said product. In Texas, the RealEstate commision regulates home warranty service products. A homeowner in Arlington, Texas filed a complaint with Texas attorney general and was fortunate to get some money back, see this link http://www.instituteforlegalreform.com/component/ilr_news/30/article/I2976966584.html Check with your state Realestate commission and see if they regulate the likes of AHS. Meanwhile, who are these legit alternatives "Being a Victim or a Victor is a matter of Choice" Good Luck
Unsubscribe00
Memphis,Tennessee,
U.S.A.
File a Lawsuit
#8Consumer Suggestion
Wed, February 18, 2009
I read your comments and have one suggestion that would help a majority of you people complaining about AHS.... READ. Yes, read your policy. Your policy is sent to your home. Read it as you would any contractual obligation. Obligation.... It is your obligation to READ AND COMPREHEND your policy with AHS as it is with any contract that you would enter with any other company or individual. Let's review. You contact a company, in this instance AHS. You request coverage. You get sent a contract which describes their obligation to you, your obligation to them. If you do not understand or do not agree with it, cancel it. One of the biggest things that you will learn from reading your contract with AHS or ANY warranty company is, you must MAINTAIN your covered items. MAINTAIN, means you must CLEAN and ROUTINELY maintenance your covered items. Calling your WARRANTY COMPANY because something makes a noise it not maintenance...your policy does not cover MAINTENANCE. So, with that being said, I hope I have enlightened some about a HOME WARRANTY POLICY. Next, look at the technician that is coming for the repair. If you question what he does, you should FIRST call the company that he came out from. If you do not accept the explanation that his supervisor gave to you, call YOUR WARRANTY COMPANY and see if what he did is normal practice. Be smart about your repairs and your HOME WARRANTY COMPANIES!!! They actually can save you money, in the long run. But a lot of common sense things you should catch YOURSELF...
Learned My Lesson
Logan,Utah,
U.S.A.
Do not renew with this company
#9Consumer Suggestion
Thu, August 07, 2008
There are good companies out there. AHS pays so little to their service vendors that they usually end up vendors that just want to come in a collec the evaluation fee and be on their way. Of course that works for AHS because they can just use the service company report as an excuse not to repair. When you renew, you should look for a company that uses servicers certified by the manufacturer. The home warranty should begin coverage after the manufacturer warranty. That way, if you buy a new furnace, you will have another year of coverage after the manufacturer's coverage. Also you will want to be sure the service fee you pay will cover as many visits as it takes to complete the repair. This procedure of paying an additional service fee for each time a service person comes out is ridiculous. Good luck to you. Home Warranties are worth the money paid when you get the right coverage and the right company - it is worth the search.
