Guides / Before you hire
Where to find good household help
Referrals, community boards and marketplaces, and how to use each safely.
The best hires often come from people you trust. Wider searches work too, with more checking.
Places to look
- Referrals from neighbors, friends and colleagues
- Schools, daycares and community centers (for childcare)
- Vets and pet stores (for pet care)
- Local hardware stores and supply houses (for handypeople)
- Online marketplaces and community boards
Online safety
- Keep early conversations on the platform or by email
- Don't share your home address until you've spoken and checked references
- Meet for a first interview by video or in a public place
General information about hiring household help in the US. Rules vary by state and city. House Help Crew isn't paid by any agency, marketplace or service mentioned here.