EVERYDAY HELP · CANADA & U.S.

Hiring help for everyday tasks, safely

Most everyday jobs — a move, a clear-out, flat-pack furniture, a lawn — need an extra pair of hands, not a contractor. Here is how to arrange that well, and where the line is that you should not cross.

Last reviewed 23 September 2026.

Describe the task properly

Write what needs doing, where, when, and roughly how long you think it will take. Mention stairs, no lift, heavy items, parking, pets and anything else that changes the work.

A photograph does more than a paragraph. Someone who can see the job before accepting it is far less likely to walk away halfway through.

Know where the line is

Everyday help means moving, lifting, cleaning, tidying, yard work, assembly, queuing, errands and general household tasks.

It does not mean anything licensed: electrical, gas, plumbing, structural, roofing, major vehicle repair, childcare, medical or personal care, or legal, accounting and tax advice. Those go to a licensed professional every time.

Pay properly

Start above the minimum wage where you live and factor in travel and effort. Underpriced tasks sit unaccepted, and the people who do accept them are the ones least able to refuse.

Agree the total before the work starts, and agree what happens if it runs long. In HAUSINE Help the offer is fixed before anyone accepts, so there is no haggling at your door.

Safety basics

Keep messages and payment inside the platform so there is a record. Tell someone when the job is happening. Put documents, keys and valuables away first. Do not hand over a key or leave someone alone in the home unless you have chosen to.

Meet outside or at the door, be specific about which rooms are in scope, and end the job if anyone is uncomfortable. A short awkward conversation is cheaper than anything else.

Finishing well

Check the work before confirming it is done, take a photo if there is any doubt, and confirm promptly — the person is waiting to be paid.

Leave an honest review. When money is held until you confirm, as it is in HAUSINE Help, both sides are protected: the helper knows the money is there, and you know it is not released until the job is actually finished.

Common questions

What jobs should I not hire casual help for?

Anything licensed or regulated: electrical, gas and plumbing work, structural changes, roofing, major vehicle repair, childcare, medical or personal care, and legal, accounting or tax advice. These need a licensed professional, both for safety and because insurance will not cover unlicensed work.

What should I agree before someone starts?

Exactly what the task is, where it is, how long it should take, what it pays, who supplies tools or materials, and what happens if it takes longer. Agree it in writing, in the same place you booked it.

What is a fair price for everyday help?

Start from the minimum wage where you live and pay above it — this is physical work, often with travel. Price the whole task rather than haggling by the minute, and be clear whether the price includes materials, disposal or parking.

How do I stay safe when someone comes to my home?

Keep the conversation and payment inside the platform you booked through, tell someone else when the job is happening, put away valuables and documents, meet at the door rather than inviting a stranger straight in, and stop the job if anything feels wrong.

Official sources

Licensing rules for trades differ by province and state. When a job touches gas, electricity, structure, or anyone's health, use a licensed professional — no exceptions.