Friday, Dec 15, 2006

Dubai: If you're tired of dealing with clogged pipes, furnace failures and appliances that go on the blink, you might want to consider this.

GAP Holdings, provider of automotive warranty products, has rolled out for the first time in the Middle East and North Africa its home protection plan business, which is becoming increasingly popular in western countries.

Home warranty is a brand new concept in the region and is likely to be a hit in the market, said Nassima Menari, general sales manager of GAP Support, a subsidiary of GAP Holdings.

Menari said they are joining hands with a number of developers and real estate firms, and are about to clinch a deal with one of the UAE's top mortgage lenders.

The concept is identical to that of a car warranty. It is a protection plan that provides guarantees against breakdown of home systems, such as air conditioning, electrical, plumbing, as well as white and brown appliances, ranging from your fridge to your Plasma TV.

"If any of the items breaks down, the company will immediately dispatch a qualified repairer to carry out the necessary work. All repairs are guaranteed within 72 hours, and furthermore, should any item be irreparable, we will replace it free of charge. We also provide three free inspection and maintenance visits per year," Menari told Gulf News.

Gulf News 2006. All rights reserved.