News Room

December 8, 2006

Assurant Solutions Enhances Integrity of ESC Service Network Through Partnership with PlusOne Solutions

ATLANTA/OVIEDO, Fla: Assurant Solutions, a leading vertically integrated provider of extended service contracts and related products and services, has partnered with PlusOne Solutions, Inc. to enhance the background process and regulatory screenings of independent servicers who perform in-home repairs of home appliances, consumer electronics, HVAC equipment and other merchandise covered by its service plans.

“Each time our customers schedule an in-home service event, they are demonstrating their trust in our ability to provide a safe and satisfying repair experience,” said Keith Meier, senior vice president and general manager, extended service contracts, for Assurant Solutions. “Through this partnership with PlusOne, our clients can be assured that we are protecting their brands by providing the highest levels of diligence in the industry when selecting the service providers that we send to customers’ homes.”

PlusOne Solutions provides an on-line platform of tools to manage select back office processes for retailers, distributors, original equipment manufacturers, third-party administrators and others who use independent service networks to deliver in-home installation, maintenance and repair services. 

By accessing PlusOne’s Web portal, service providers may update and maintain critical information that can be used by clients to quickly dispatch service orders to the most qualified independent servicing companies and can apply on-line to complete individual background screens that can be shared with multiple companies.

The partnership with PlusOne will enable Assurant Solutions to access PlusOne’s carefully screened independent servicer database as well as add another security level to its established servicer background and regulatory screening process.  “Each in-home service event creates a moment of trust,” Meier said. “As the leading service contract provider, we expect to set the standard for others in the industry.”

“PlusOne believes that our partnership with Assurant Solutions provides a unique opportunity to create a more satisfying customer experience and, at the same time, providing additional support services to the independent service provider networks to help manage and grow their businesses,” said Craig Reilly, president, PlusOne Solutions.

About Assurant Solutions

Assurant Solutions businesses develop, underwrite, market and administer specialty insurance, extended service contracts and other risk management solutions through collaborative relationships with leading financial institutions, retailers, automobile dealers, funeral homes, utilities and other entities. With operations in 17 locations, including executive offices in Atlanta, Ga., Assurant Solutions serves clients and their customers in 10 countries throughout North America, the Caribbean, Latin America and Europe. www.assurantsolutions.com

Assurant Solutions is part of Assurant, a premier provider of specialized insurance products and related services in North American and selected international markets. Assurant, a Fortune 500 company, is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol AIZ. Assurant has over $20 billion in assets and $7 billion in annual revenue. www.assurant.com

About PlusOne Solutions

PlusOne Solutions, Inc. is a privately held business process provider serving the entire service supply chain, including service providers and the client that is contracting with servicing companies to provide service or installation jobs for their customer.  PlusOne’s continuously develops innovative service industry solutions with a focus on reducing costs and adding value to all segments of the service equation. www.plusonesolutions.net

Media Contacts:

James A. Sykes
Assurant Solutions
Telephone: 770.763.1015
E-mail: james.sykes@assurant.com

Scott Lindeman
PlusOne Solutions
Telephone: 407.359.5929
E-mail: scott.lindeman@plusonesolutions.net