LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Homeowners looking for financial protection from costly repairs often turn to home warranty plans. However, consumer advocates warn that many are left with unexpected bills when companies refuse to pay for covered repairs.

Rosalie Battle, who had been paying $500 annually for a home warranty, was shocked when her provider refused to cover a $1,000 furnace repair, citing a "manufacturer's defect." Similarly, Josh and Brittany Keeny endured two months without air conditioning after their $600 warranty failed to cover necessary replacements, claiming the unit was "undersized."

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) reports thousands of complaints about home warranty providers denying claims. Sarah Wetzel of the BBB advises consumers to carefully read contracts, understand exclusions, and ask about pre-existing condition clauses. She also recommends ensuring regular maintenance records are available, as failure to provide them can lead to claim denials.

With the Keeny family forced to pay an $8,000 repair bill out of pocket, experts urge homeowners to research warranty companies thoroughly before signing up.

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