Home warranty companies promise to save you thousands of dollars if you need an expensive repair. But Checkbook found these plans are terrible deals for most homeowners. Warranty companies are the subject of thousands of complaints to consumer agencies. After paying $400 to $1,000 for the coverage, consumers find that home warranty contracts often have numerous fine-print exclusions that stick them with much of the costs for product repairs or replacements. Plus, you don’t get to decide who does the work—and the best repair services usually refuse to work for home warranty companies.

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