By JAN LARSON McLAUGHLIN
BG Independent News
Most homeowners have insurance that will cover expenses like cleanup and home repairs after a pipe bursts in the basement. But when it comes to fixing the faulty pipe, they are probably out of luck.
So the city of Bowling Green’s Board of Public Affairs listened to a pitch Monday evening from a company that picks up many of the service line expenses not covered by regular homeowners insurance.
Jason Richards, of IGS Energy located in Dublin, explained how the warranty program covers items like water pipes, sewer pipes, electrical wires, HVAC, hot water tanks and gas lines inside the home. Outside, the company also covers sewer lateral lines and water service lines.
To further describe exactly which items IGS warranties cover, Richards said in most cases it covers “stuff behind the walls.” For example, the warranty program does not cover light fixtures or faucets, but will cover light switches and electrical outlets.
“It’s to help fill the gap left by homeowner’s insurance,” Richards said. “It’s built to be here when things break due to normal wear and tear.”
IGS Energy has about 110,000 customers already using the program. Signing up for the warranty is voluntary.
“We take this program seriously,” Richards said. “Our goal is to be different than other suppliers.”
The monthly rates range from $7.50 to $34.95 depending on the coverage sought. Customers can cancel their coverage at anytime by discontinuing their payments to IGS.
The average claim cost has been $500 – and in most cases, the customers have not had to pay anything beyond their monthly warranty, Richards said.
“When things break, we are able to be there and fix it,” he said. “People want that peace of mind that when something happens, they’ve got someone there to help.”
Repairs are guaranteed for six months.
IGS uses local technicians, plumbers, electricians and HVAC contractors, according to Richards.
The city’s only role in the warranty program would be to provide names and addresses of Bowling Green utility customers. IGS takes it from there, working on enrollment, taking claim calls, contacting contractors, and paying claims.
The board of public utilities agreed to allow IGS to contact local customers to offer warranties. City Council will be asked next to approve the program.
