NHSCA Takes Lead to Promote Automatic Renewal in the Home Service Contract Industry
The National Home Service Contract Association has taken the lead to protect consumers from a lapse in coverage by drafting and promoting a model automatic renewal clause for the home service contract industry.
In an effort to create a balanced approach in favor of consumers, the NHSCA model allows consumers to choose automatic renewal to prevent a lapse in service, while also offering a simple process to cancel if their preference changes regarding automatic renewal. READ FULL ARTICLE >>
NHSCA Supports Relief Effort for Texans Devastated by Summer Wildfires
This summer many Texan communities were devastated by wildfires that damaged or destroyed thousands of homes throughout the state. In recognition of member organization, the Texas Home Service Contract Association, and in support of rebuilding efforts, the National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA) recently contributed $2,500 to the Texas REALTORS® Relief Fund and encourages other professional associations to do the same. READ FULL ARTICLE >>
NHSCA and Angie's List Offer Similar Advice
In 2010, over three million home service contracts (often referred to as “home warranties”) were purchased nationwide—the greatest number in the history of the industry. While a growing number are marketed directly to consumers, the majority of contracts are purchased as part of a real estate transaction or subsequent
renewal. READ FULL ARTICLE >>
California and Texas Join National Home Service Contract Association
The National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA) proudly announced today the addition of the Texas Home Service Contract Association (THSCA) and the California Home Service Contract Association (CHSCA) as members of its State Network.
These new state groups replace the functions formerly provided by the Texas Warranty Association (TWA) and the Home Warranty Association of California, (HWAC), which both dissolved in favor of the NHSCA. Collectively, the NHSCA and its state network members represent the premier and most respected providers of home service contracts in the country. READ FULL ARTICLE>>
The Latest in Service Contract Terminology
The National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA) represents the home service contract industry. The industry is focused on major, built-in household appliances and home systems. Contracts generally cover things like dishwashers, ovens, disposers, wiring and plumbing systems and most importantly, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems (HVAC). Many home service contract providers also offer a menu of optional items such as pool pumps, spas and free standing appliances such as refrigerators and clothing washers and dryers for an additional fee. Contracts are annual and renewable.
“The purchase of a home is maybe the biggest investment an individual or family will make,” said Mark Celichowski, Home Security of America, Inc. and president of the NHSCA. “Our members represent the premier and most respected providers of home service contracts in the nation. Their goal, as well as ours as an association, is to help the public better understand home service contracts.”
To help consumers choose the right contract for them, the NHSCA would like to answer some of the most commonly asked questions regarding home service contracts... READ FULL ARTICLE>>
Today, More Than Ever, Agents Add Value
Homes Service Contract Industry Reaffirms Dedication to Excellence
The downturn in the nation’s economy over the last year and a half has been hard on everyone. The subsequent sluggish residential real estate market has affected nearly everyone whether you are buying, selling or servicing a home. As we ease out of this dark economic time, home sales are slowly recovering - signaling the sign of better times.
A side effect of this economic change is that today’s home buyers are more savvy and looking for added value with their purchase. However, they may not always know where that value can be found. That is why working with a knowledgeable and resourceful real estate agent is more important than ever before...
READ FULL ARTICLE>>
Home Buyers Urged to Consider Implications of EPA's Ban on R-22 Refrigerant
On January 1, 2010, the Environmental Protection Agency will place into effect a ban on the manufacture of new HVAC systems using R-22 refrigerant. This R-22 refrigerant, more commonly known as Freon®, is used in systems such as window air-conditioning units, dehumidifiers, heat pumps and central air conditioners.
The purpose of the effort is to reduce the amount of hydro chlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) emitted into the environment. General phase out of R-22 refrigerant is currently estimated to be complete by the year 2020, at which time chemical manufacturers will no longer be able to produce R-22 to service existing air conditioners and heat pumps. After January 1, 2020, servicing of R-22-based systems will rely solely on recycled refrigerants... READ FULL ARTICLE >>
Louisiana Residents May Get Relief Amidst Chinese Drywall Storm
Issues related to the use of drywall manufactured in China and installed in homes in and around areas affected by Hurricane Katrina have grabbed consumer attention and newspaper headlines in recent months.
According to an article published July 19th in the Times Picayune, New Orleans major daily newspaper, the drywall “emits sulfur compounds that have been blamed for corroding household appliances and contributing to a variety of health ailments. The EPA and the product safety commission are investigating Chinese drywall, which was installed in a number of Louisiana homes as they were rebuilt after Hurricane Katrina.”
The Times Picayune then cites a letter from the IRS to Sen. Bill Nelson of Florida that if the drywall "emits an unusual or severe concentration of chemical fumes that causes the extreme and unusual damage you describe, affected taxpayers can qualify for a casualty loss deduction." READ FULL ARTICLE >>
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