Local Services

Helpr

On-demand childcare for corporate families. Background-checked, pre-vetted sitters with premium rates.

Dog Walking

Dog walking is a prominent segment of the local services gig economy, connecting pet owners with independent contractors. This role involves visiting clients' homes to retrieve their dogs, providing a predetermined amount of physical exercise, and ensuring the animal's safety and hydration. It is an entry-level opportunity that requires no formal certification, though previous experience with animal behavior is beneficial. Users earn between $15 and $30 per walk, with total income depending on the number of clients serviced and the geographic area. The commitment is highly flexible, ranging from occasional 'on-demand' walks to recurring daily schedules. This gig is best suited for individuals who prefer a physical workspace over an office setting and can manage the logistical demands of traveling between multiple locations. Key requirements include physical stamina, reliability, and the ability to handle various dog breeds and temperaments safely. Most platforms in the USA, UK, and Canada also require a basic background check and a smartphone for schedule management and client communication.

TaskRabbit

TaskRabbit is a peer-to-peer platform owned by the Ingka Group (IKEA) that facilitates the outsourcing of everyday household tasks. It is designed for individuals with manual dexterity, organizational skills, or technical proficiency in home maintenance. Taskers earn income by fulfilling service requests in categories ranging from heavy lifting and plumbing to personal assistance and delivery. Because Taskers set their own hourly rates and choose their own work areas, the platform offers significant flexibility regarding schedule and commitment level. The application process involves a background check and, in some regions, a non-refundable registration fee. Once approved, Taskers use a mobile app to manage bookings, communicate with clients, and receive payments. The platform is particularly well-integrated with IKEA, providing a steady stream of furniture assembly work. Success on the platform depends on maintaining high ratings through reliability and quality workmanship, as client reviews directly impact a Tasker's visibility and ability to secure future bookings.

Housekeep

Housekeep is a technology platform focused on the domestic services market, primarily operating in London and surrounding areas. It functions as a marketplace that matches independent contractors with homeowners seeking regular or deep-cleaning services. The platform is designed for those looking for manual, local work with a high degree of scheduling flexibility. Users earn between £12 and £15 per hour, and the platform handles administrative tasks such as billing, customer communication, and job routing. It suits individuals who prefer consistent, localized work, as the platform attempts to group jobs within specific geographic clusters to minimize travel time. There is no strict long-term commitment, allowing cleaners to accept as many or as few hours as they desire, though reliability is a key metric for maintaining a high rating. Requirements include the legal right to work in the UK, a basic background check, and the physical capability to perform manual cleaning tasks to a professional standard.

GetNinjas

GetNinjas is a Brazilian gig economy platform that facilitates the connection between service providers and customers seeking local help. The platform covers a vast range of categories, including manual labor (plumbing, electrical), professional services (consulting, tutoring), and creative work (design, events). It is best suited for freelancers and small business owners looking to expand their local client base. Unlike platforms that take a percentage of the final sale, GetNinjas typically operates on a credit-based system; professionals purchase coin packages to 'unlock' lead information and contact potential clients. This means earnings are paid directly by the client to the provider, but the provider assumes the financial risk of the lead cost regardless of whether the job is secured. The commitment level is highly flexible, allowing users to choose which leads to pursue. Requirements include a valid CPF or CNPJ for registration and the ability to self-manage scheduling, pricing, and tax obligations. Success on the platform is largely dependent on rapid response times and maintaining positive customer reviews within the app.

SweepSouth Africa

SweepSouth — South Africa's leading home cleaning platform. Sign up as a SweepStar and earn by providing cleaning services.

Helpling

Helpling operates as a digital intermediary in the local services sector, primarily focused on the European market including Germany, France, and the Netherlands. The platform is designed for individuals seeking flexible, entry-level work in the domestic cleaning industry. Service providers earn by performing standard household tasks such as dusting, vacuuming, mopping, and window cleaning, with the potential to earn between €15 and €25 per hour depending on the region and specific job requirements. It suits those who prioritize autonomy, as cleaners can choose their working hours, locations, and clients via a mobile app. There is no minimum hour commitment, making it suitable for both part-time supplemental income and full-time freelance work. Key requirements typically include legal right to work in the specific country, a clean criminal record, and a smartphone to manage bookings. While Helpling provides the platform and liability insurance, providers usually operate as independent contractors or small business owners, meaning they are responsible for their own taxes and social contributions.

Helpling Germany

Helpling's German operations — Europe's leading cleaning service marketplace connecting cleaners with residential and office clients.

TaskRabbit UK

UK marketplace for handyman, moving, cleaning, and odd jobs. Set your own rates.

Thumbtack

Thumbtack is a comprehensive local services platform that allows independent contractors and small business owners to list their services across over 500 categories. It is primarily used for home maintenance, wellness, and professional services. Unlike commission-based platforms, Thumbtack operates on a lead-generation model where professionals typically pay a fee for customer inquiries or when a customer matches their set preferences. This makes it suitable for individuals looking to build a local client base rather than those seeking one-off tasks. Users earn money by setting their own rates and invoicing clients directly after completing the work. Commitment levels are flexible, as pros can toggle their availability and set budget limits for lead acquisition. Key requirements include passing a background check and, depending on the service category, providing proof of professional licensing and insurance. Success on the platform depends on maintaining a high response rate and collecting positive customer reviews to improve search visibility within the marketplace.