Household assistant for busy families

Working parents, dual-income couples, and professionals who would rather pay for help than spend weekends on chores.

Hourly rate with a minimum visit, or a monthly retainer for a set number of hours. Errand time can be billed at the same rate, with mileage added.

• Organized and efficient
• Discreet and trustworthy in people's homes
• Good communication with clients
• Flexible and able to switch between tasks

• Commercial general liability insurance, and ask whether it covers client property and items in your care
• Check whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence
• Register for GST/HST once you pass the small supplier threshold, and check your province's rules
• If you hire helpers later, check WCB/WSIB coverage and employment rules in your province
• Agree tasks in writing to avoid scope creep, and avoid tasks needing trade certification such as electrical work

Startup costs are estimates, typically around $200 to $1,200, depending on your insurance, supplies, transport and how you advertise. Costs vary by province and by the services you choose to offer to families.

Monthly revenue is an estimate, typically around $500 to $2,500, depending on your rates, how many households you serve and how many hours you work. The estimate assumes at least about 6 hours a week.

Check that your commercial general liability insurance covers client property and items in your care. Ask your municipality about a home-based business licence, check GST/HST rules in your province, and agree tasks in writing. Avoid work needing trade certification, such as electrical work.