Did you get an official looking, Xcel Energy logo and all, document in the mail that looked like an Xcel bill only to open it and see a scammy offer from a company called HomeServe that wants to sell you useless insurance for “the exterior electrical system on your property”. Well, I did and in this article I’ll dig a little deeper but spoiler alert, just toss this mailer in the trash and get mad as Xcel has sold our private data to this company.
Contents of mailer
HomeServe | Xcel Energy®
For Residential Address:
——-
——–
Date: September 18, 2024
Xcel Energy Customer Benefit Review:
• Homeowner: xyz
• Location: yyyyyy
• Benefit Amount: Up to $5,000 annually for multiple service calls on covered repairs
• 30-day wait period: Includes a money-back guarantee
Exterior Electrical System Information
Dear xyz,
Your exterior electrical system is exposed to the elements and can deteriorate over time. You are not currently enrolled in optional Exterior Electrical Coverage from HomeServe. Xcel Energy has partnered with HomeServe, an independent company, to offer this protection plan for your exterior electrical system.
As the homeowner, you are responsible for components such as the weatherhead, insulator, riser, meter base, and service entrance conductor. If these components break down, you are liable for repairs. Without this optional coverage, repairs could be costly due to aging or normal wear and tear.
For just $5.99 per month, you can enroll in the Exterior Electrical Coverage plan to avoid the unexpected burden of high repair costs. The plan offers up to $5,000 in coverage annually, with no charge for covered repairs up to the benefit limit.
To enroll, please sign and return the enclosed Acceptance Form, or call HomeServe at 1-844-245-3657. For fast processing, you can also scan the QR code or visit www.HomeServe.com/ElectricalRepair.
Know Your Responsibility
As a homeowner, you are responsible for some parts of your exterior electrical system. These components are not usually covered by basic homeowners insurance, which typically only covers damage to your property, not normal wear and tear. Common repairs and their typical costs are as follows:
• Replace Weatherhead: $214 (Plan Members: No Charge)
• Replace Meter Base: $473 (Plan Members: No Charge)
Please note: The meter that measures electricity usage is not covered under this plan.
Important Coverage Information
Eligibility Requirements:
• You must own the residential single structure.
• For underground wiring, you must own the land your structure is on.
• For overhead wiring, you do not need to own the land.
• You are not eligible if your home is a recreational vehicle or intended to be moved, used for commercial purposes, or if your electrical system is shared with a third party or covered by a homeowners’ association.
Coverage Details:
• Covers repair or replacement of broken or hazardous overhead or underground wiring, weatherhead, insulator, riser, meter base, and service entrance conductor.
• Frayed but still functional wiring is also covered.
• Not Covered: Damage from disconnection, main electrical supply failure, non-utility supplied power, appliances, meter pedestals, and fixtures. Secondary buildings and detached garages are also excluded. Damage from accidents, negligence, wildlife, or unusual circumstances is not covered.
Service Call Information:
• Plan starts once enrollment is processed, with a 30-day waiting period.
• Cancel anytime by calling HomeServe at 1-844-245-3657. Cancel within 30 days for a full refund; after 30 days, you’ll receive a pro-rated refund. The plan automatically renews annually.
For further details, call HomeServe or visit www.HomeServe.com/ElectricalRepair.
Payment Options:
Enroll in E-Z Pay for automatic payments with no additional costs.
What !!
See more here: 9News program on their shady tactics: Link to 9News Piece click here
Nice Reddit discussion: I got all my info here: Click here
Here is a screenshot from a text chat with HomeServer: