4 Options to consider when hiring your home watch provider
Neighbor Doing a Favor or Family/Friend: This person is intending to be helpful and this is a cost-effective option. They are untrained on how to do a thorough home watch visit and don’t have the proper insurance, bond, and background check. They might do a casual walk through of the house on an infrequent basis. You might get a text saying “all looks good at your house” and they are on their way. Should a problem arise at the home, they might not have the expertise on how to quickly handle it and often don’t have the time to take care of the problem. Privacy concerns and potential conflicts also could arise which could negatively impact the relationship.
Hobby Home Watcher: This person has started a side business “watching” homes to make some extra money. They are usually not properly trained, insured, bonded or background checked. The price per visit price is low because they do not have the credentials of a professional home watch company. Their visits are usually quick and not comprehensive over the entire property. They are not providing detailed pictures and reports of their visit.
House Cleaner: This person is already coming on a regular basis so is a convenient and cost-effective option but they are not trained in professional home watch. The house cleaning business might be lacking the adequate insurance, bond and background checks needed for a secure visit. Their primary responsibility is cleaning so they are not providing a thorough and detailed visit above cleaning. Should a problem arise, they don’t have the time or knowledge on how to handle this because this is not their area of expertise. They often will not give you any report on the visit. It is a no news is good news situation.
Professional Home Watch Business: This business is properly trained on providing comprehensive home watch visits. They are insured, bonded and background checked so you can feel secure with the person in your home. If a problem should arise, they have the expertise on how to swiftly handle the next steps. They keep you informed of the regular visits with detailed reports. They are your dedicated eyes, ears and helpful hands while you are gone.
Choosing the right provider for your home is important. To help make an informed decision, check out The Ultimate Home Watch Interview Guide. It will let you know what home watch is all about, what questions to ask, and the answers you should expect. Conduct a thorough interview and make an educated choice.
