Porch.com Reviews

Based on looking at the website, Porch.com presents itself as a comprehensive platform designed to simplify various aspects of homeownership, from moving and improving to ongoing maintenance and security.

It aims to be a one-stop shop for homeowners needing help with a wide array of services.

The site emphasizes connecting users with service providers, offering tools like checklists, instant quotes, and scheduling options.

Porch.com seeks to streamline the often-complex processes associated with home services, from finding movers to booking a handyman or comparing home security systems.

They position themselves as a helpful intermediary, aiming to reduce the stress and time typically involved in these tasks.

The platform attempts to aggregate various services and providers, offering a centralized point of access for homeowners.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Porch.com Review & First Look

Upon initial review, Porch.com appears to be a robust platform designed to assist homeowners with a wide range of needs.

It offers a comprehensive suite of services aimed at simplifying tasks related to moving, home improvement, maintenance, and even home security.

The website’s interface is generally user-friendly, providing clear categories for services.

Understanding Porch.com’s Core Offering

Porch.com’s fundamental value proposition is to act as a bridge between homeowners and various home service professionals.

Instead of searching multiple sites or relying on word-of-mouth, users can theoretically find and book a multitude of services in one place.

• Centralized Access: The site aims to be a single portal for diverse home needs, from appliance installation to full home remodels.
• Provider Network: They claim to have a network of over 1,100 types of projects and independent professionals.
• Simplification: The goal is to reduce the complexity of finding, vetting, and scheduling home services.

Initial Impressions of User Experience

Navigating Porch.com is relatively intuitive.

The homepage immediately highlights key service categories, such as “Movers,” “Handyman,” “Internet & TV,” and “Security.” This structure allows users to quickly identify the service they need.

• Clear Categories: Services are neatly organized, making it easy to browse.
• Search Functionality: A prominent search bar allows users to look for specific services or projects.
• Visual Appeal: The site uses clean aesthetics and relevant imagery to enhance the user experience.

Service Breadth at a Glance

Porch.com prides itself on the sheer breadth of services it covers.

Whether you’re planning a major renovation or just need a light switch replaced, they claim to have a solution.

• Moving Services: Includes full-service movers and hourly labor.
• Handyman Services: Covers a wide array of small repairs and installations, such as furniture assembly, TV mounting, and gutter cleaning.
• Home Improvement: Connects users with professionals for larger projects like electrical work, HVAC, plumbing, roofing, and painting.
• Home Inspections: Facilitates booking professional home inspectors.
• Utility & Security Comparisons: Offers tools to compare internet, TV, and home security providers.

Porch.com Pros & Cons

Like any service platform, Porch.com comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Wilfredknight.com.au Reviews

It’s crucial to weigh these to determine if it aligns with your specific needs.

Advantages of Using Porch.com

Porch.com attempts to offer several benefits that could appeal to homeowners.

• Convenience and Time-Saving: One of the most significant advantages is the potential to save time and effort. Instead of contacting multiple providers individually, Porch.com aims to centralize the search and booking process.
  • Single Platform: Access a wide range of services from one website.
  • Reduced Research: Potentially less time spent researching individual contractors.
  • Instant Quotes: For some services, such as handyman tasks, they offer instant upfront pricing.
• Wide Range of Services: The platform boasts an impressive array of services, catering to almost any home-related need. This broad coverage means you might not need to look elsewhere for different types of jobs.
  • Comprehensive Offerings: From small repairs to major renovations, moving, and utility comparisons.
  • Specialized Pros: Access to professionals for specific tasks like appliance installation, deck repair, or structural engineering.
• Cost Guides and Planning Resources: Porch.com provides helpful resources such as cost guides for various projects e.g., drywall repair averaging $172, window installation averaging $1,300 and planning articles. These can be valuable for budgeting and understanding project scope.
  • Budgeting Tools: Helps users get a realistic idea of project costs.
  • Informative Articles: Guides on topics like increasing home value or moving tips.
• Satisfaction Promise Claimed: Porch states it is “committed to making sure you’re happy with every job, whether it’s done by Porch or a recommended pro from the Porch Pro Network.” While this is a claim, it suggests a level of accountability.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While Porch.com aims to be helpful, there are aspects that users should be aware of and consider carefully.

• Reliance on Third-Party Providers: Porch.com primarily acts as a lead generator or a booking platform for independent contractors. This means the quality of service ultimately depends on the individual professional.
  • Varying Quality: The expertise and reliability of pros can differ significantly.
  • Dispute Resolution: While Porch may offer a “satisfaction promise,” resolving issues with third-party contractors can still be challenging.
• Pricing Transparency Issues Potential: While some handyman services show upfront pricing, for larger projects or specific contractor quotes, the initial “free quotes” may not always be truly comprehensive or competitive without further negotiation.
  • Lead Generation vs. Direct Pricing: For complex jobs, it often functions as a lead generation service, where you’ll get calls from multiple pros, rather than a direct booking.
  • Hidden Costs: As with any home service, unexpected costs can arise if the project scope isn’t clearly defined.
• Customer Service Concerns: As with many large platforms that rely on a network of external providers, customer service experiences can vary. Users might face challenges if disputes arise with a hired professional.
  • Mediation Role: Porch’s role in disputes might be limited to mediation rather than direct intervention.
  • Response Times: Customer support response times for complex issues are not always immediate.
• Data Sharing and Privacy: When using platforms like Porch.com, users often submit personal information and project details. It’s important to be mindful of how this data is shared with various service providers.
  • Marketing Calls: Expect calls from multiple contractors once your project details are shared.
  • Privacy Policy Review: Always review their privacy policy to understand data usage.

Examining Porch.com’s Business Model

Porch.com operates on a multifaceted business model, primarily acting as a connecting platform rather than directly employing the service professionals.

Understanding this model helps clarify how they generate revenue and manage their services.

How Porch.com Generates Revenue

Porch.com’s revenue streams are diverse, typical of a platform connecting consumers with service providers.

• Lead Generation Fees: A significant portion of their revenue comes from charging service professionals their “Porch Pros” for leads. When a homeowner submits a project request, Porch.com connects them with relevant professionals, who pay a fee for these leads.
  • Subscription Models for Pros: Some professionals might subscribe to Porch.com to receive a consistent flow of leads.
  • Pay-Per-Lead: Other pros might pay for individual leads, varying in cost depending on the service and location.
• Software and Services for Businesses: Porch Group provides software and services to other home service businesses, including home inspectors through ISN, moving companies HireAHelper, and utility companies. This B2B segment is a major revenue driver.
  • ISN Inspection Support Network: A leading technology for home inspectors, providing tools for efficiency.
  • HireAHelper: Moving software and service technology for movers.
  • Porch Utilities: Helps utility customers find deals, generating revenue through partnerships with utility providers.
• Direct-Booked Services Handyman: For certain handyman services, Porch.com facilitates direct online booking with upfront pricing. In these cases, they likely take a commission from the service fee.
  • Commission-Based: A percentage of the service cost is retained by Porch.com.
• Advertising and Partnerships: The platform likely generates revenue through advertising placements on its website and partnerships with larger brands, some of which are showcased on their homepage.
  • Brand Promotion: Featuring specific brands or services can be a revenue source.

The Role of Porch.com as an Intermediary

Porch.com primarily functions as an intermediary.

They do not typically perform the services themselves but rather facilitate the connection between homeowners and independent contractors or service companies.

• No Direct Employment: The professionals you hire through Porch.com are usually independent contractors or employees of separate companies, not Porch employees.
• Matching Algorithm: They use algorithms to match homeowner needs with available professionals in their network.
• Limited Direct Control: While they vet professionals to some extent often through background checks and license verification, their direct control over the quality of work performed by third-party pros is limited. This is a common characteristic of marketplace models.

Data Collection and Usage

Given its role in connecting various parties, Porch.com collects a significant amount of data from both homeowners and professionals.

• Homeowner Data: Information submitted for project requests e.g., location, project type, contact details.
• Professional Data: Licensing, insurance, reviews, and business information.
• Data Sharing: This data is often shared with relevant service providers to facilitate connections. Users should be aware of Porch’s privacy policy regarding how their data is used and shared.

Porch.com Alternatives

When seeking home services, it’s always wise to explore multiple avenues to ensure you find the best fit for your needs, budget, and desired quality. Ahaselected.com Reviews

Several platforms compete with Porch.com, each with its own strengths and focus.

General Home Service Marketplaces

These platforms offer a broad range of home services, similar to Porch.com, focusing on connecting consumers with local professionals.

• Angi formerly Angie’s List:
  • Focus: A long-standing platform offering a wide array of home services, from small repairs to large renovations. It heavily relies on user reviews and ratings.
  • Pros: Extensive network of professionals, detailed reviews and ratings, various pricing models some direct booking, some lead generation.
  • Cons: Some users report aggressive marketing calls after submitting requests, and the quality of pros can still vary.
• HomeAdvisor:
  • Focus: Similar to Angi they are now under the same parent company, Angi Inc., HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local service professionals. It emphasizes getting multiple quotes.
  • Pros: Quick access to multiple quotes from various contractors, vast professional network.
  • Cons: Can lead to a high volume of calls from interested professionals, quality control can be inconsistent across regions.
• Thumbtack:
  • Focus: A broad marketplace for various services, not just home-related, but with a strong presence in home improvement and maintenance. Professionals bid on jobs.
  • Pros: Allows users to compare bids directly, flexible for various types of projects, and easy to post requests.
  • Cons: Professionals pay to bid, which can sometimes incentivize lower quality bids or less engaged pros. Quality vetting can be less stringent compared to other platforms.

Specialized Service Platforms

For those seeking specific types of home services, specialized platforms might offer more focused expertise or better vetting.

• TaskRabbit:
  • Focus: Primarily for smaller, hourly tasks and errands, including furniture assembly, moving help, cleaning, and minor handyman services.
  • Pros: Ideal for quick, small jobs. hourly rates are often transparent. direct communication with “Taskers.”
  • Cons: Less suitable for large, complex home improvement projects.
• Yelp for Services:
  • Focus: While primarily known for restaurant reviews, Yelp also has a strong service section where local businesses, including home contractors, are reviewed. You can request quotes directly through the platform.
  • Pros: Extensive user reviews for local businesses, good for discovering highly-rated local independent contractors.
  • Cons: Not specifically designed as a booking platform. more of a directory with review capabilities.
• Google Local Services Ads:
  • Focus: Google’s own platform for connecting consumers with local, “Google Guaranteed” service providers. These are often plumbers, electricians, HVAC, and locksmiths.
  • Pros: Strong vetting by Google, “Google Guaranteed” badge offers a level of trust and potential reimbursement if issues arise.
  • Cons: Limited to specific service categories. availability varies by region.

Local & Traditional Methods

Sometimes, the most reliable methods are still those that connect you directly with established local businesses.

• Word-of-Mouth Referrals:
  • Focus: Asking friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations for contractors they’ve had positive experiences with.
  • Pros: High trust factor, often leads to reliable professionals who depend on their local reputation.
  • Cons: Limited network, might take longer to find someone, fewer options.
• Directly Contacting Licensed & Insured Professionals:
  • Focus: Researching local contractors directly through their websites, professional associations, or local business directories.
  • Pros: Direct communication, ability to thoroughly vet credentials and insurance, potentially better negotiation power.
  • Cons: Requires more personal effort and time for research and vetting.

When choosing an alternative, consider the scale of your project, your budget, your comfort with online platforms, and the level of vetting you require.

For large, complex projects, a more direct approach with thoroughly vetted professionals might be advisable.

How to Cancel Porch.com Services

Understanding how to manage or cancel services initiated through Porch.com is important, especially since their model involves connecting you with various third-party providers.

It’s crucial to distinguish between canceling a service directly booked through Porch.com like a handyman task and canceling a relationship with a third-party professional you found via Porch’s lead generation.

Canceling Directly Booked Porch Handyman Services

For handyman services where you received an “instant quote” and booked directly through the Porch.com platform, there should be a clear process for cancellation.

• Check Your Porch Account: Log into your Porch.com account. Look for a “My Projects” or “Booked Services” section.
• Locate the Booking: Find the specific handyman service appointment you wish to cancel.
• Follow Cancellation Instructions: There should be an option to modify or cancel the service directly from this section.
  • Cancellation Policy: Be aware of Porch.com’s specific cancellation policy for handyman services, which may involve fees if canceled within a certain timeframe e.g., 24-48 hours before the service. This information should be available during booking or in their terms of service.
• Confirmation: Always ensure you receive a confirmation of cancellation to avoid any misunderstandings or charges.

Canceling Relationships with Third-Party Professionals Found via Porch Leads

If Porch.com connected you with a professional for a larger project e.g., a remodeler, roofer, or mover where Porch acted as a lead generator, the cancellation process is different. Step2a.com Reviews

You will need to communicate directly with the professional or company you engaged.

• Contact the Professional Directly: Your agreement for service is with the contractor or company you hired, not Porch.com.
  • Review Your Contract: Check the contract or agreement you signed with the professional for their specific cancellation clauses, fees, and timelines.
  • Communicate Clearly: Inform the professional in writing email is often best for documentation of your intent to cancel, citing any relevant terms from your agreement.
• Porch.com’s Role: Porch.com generally does not mediate or handle cancellations for services provided by independent third parties it merely connected you with. Their involvement usually ends once the connection is made.
  • Feedback: While Porch.com won’t cancel on your behalf, you can still leave a review on the platform about your experience with the professional, which can be helpful for other users.

Managing Unwanted Contact from Professionals

If you used Porch.com as a lead generation service and are receiving unwanted calls from professionals after your project is complete or you’ve found a different contractor, you may need to take steps to manage this.

• Unsubscribe from Notifications: Check your Porch.com account settings for options to manage email or phone notifications related to project inquiries.
• Direct Communication: If a specific professional is persistent, politely but firmly inform them that you no longer require their services and ask them to remove your contact information from their outreach list.
• Do Not Call Registry for persistent unsolicited calls: If calls become excessive and unsolicited, you can register your phone number on the National Do Not Call Registry, although this primarily applies to telemarketing from legitimate businesses and might not stop individual contractors who received your contact info.

Always keep records of communications, contracts, and any cancellation confirmations to protect yourself.

Porch.com Pricing

Understanding the pricing structure on Porch.com can be a bit nuanced because it operates on different models depending on the service.

It’s not a single, unified pricing system, which is common for platforms that act as both direct booking services and lead generators.

Transparent Pricing for Direct-Booked Handyman Services

For certain predefined handyman services, Porch.com aims to provide upfront, transparent pricing. These are typically smaller, standardized tasks.

• Fixed Prices: Examples shown on their site include:
  • Appliance Installation: $320
  • Furniture Assembly: $360
  • Ceiling Fan Installation: $320
  • TV Mounting: $320
  • Art Hanging: $185
  • Dryer Vent Cleaning: $185
  • Gutter Cleaning: $360
  • Light Switch Replacement: $185
• What’s Included: These prices generally cover the labor for the specific task. Materials, if required, are usually extra or need to be provided by the homeowner.
• Booking Process: Users can select the service, choose a date and time, and book directly online at these stated prices. This model is straightforward and appeals to those who want clear costs upfront.

Quote-Based Pricing for Larger Projects & Home Improvement

For more complex or customized home improvement projects e.g., remodeling, roofing, electrical work, plumbing, HVAC, Porch.com functions more as a lead generation service. This means you won’t see fixed prices on the site.

• Free Quotes from Pros: When you submit a request for a larger project, Porch.com will connect you with multiple independent contractors in your area who are interested in the job.
• Negotiation Required: The pricing for these projects will be determined through direct communication and negotiation between you and the individual contractors. They will provide their own estimates based on the scope of work, materials, and labor.
• Varying Prices: Expect significant variations in quotes from different professionals for the same job, as each contractor has their own pricing structure and overhead.
• No Porch Commission on Quoted Jobs: While Porch.com charges the professionals for the leads, they do not typically take a commission from the homeowner’s payment for these quoted jobs. Your payment agreement is directly with the hired contractor.

Cost Guides for Project Estimation

Porch.com also offers “Cost Guides” which provide average costs for common home projects.

These are not exact quotes for your specific job but rather general estimates to help you budget.

• Examples:
  • Drywall Repair: $172 Average
  • Window Installation: $1,300 Average
  • Paint Home: $1,835 Average
  • Garbage Disposal Installation: $130 Average
• Purpose: These guides are useful for preliminary budgeting and understanding the market rates for various services in different areas. They are based on aggregated data rather than specific contractor pricing.

Considerations for All Pricing Models

• Additional Costs: Always clarify what is included in any quoted or fixed price. Materials, permits, and unforeseen issues can add to the final cost.
• Local Variation: Prices for home services can vary significantly based on your geographic location, local labor rates, and the complexity of the job.
• Written Agreements: For any significant project, always insist on a detailed written contract from the professional that clearly outlines the scope of work, materials, timeline, and payment schedule. Do not rely solely on verbal agreements.

In summary, Porch.com provides direct, fixed pricing for small handyman tasks, but for larger projects, it facilitates connections for you to obtain and compare quotes directly from service providers. Bradburypublisher.com Reviews

Porch.com vs. Direct Professional Search

When it comes to getting work done around the house, homeowners generally have two main approaches: using a platform like Porch.com or seeking out professionals directly.

Both methods have distinct characteristics that suit different preferences and project types.

Convenience and Time Investment

• Porch.com:
  • Pros: Designed for speed and convenience. You submit your project details once, and the platform aims to connect you with multiple pros quickly. For handyman tasks, it offers instant booking. This saves time on initial research and outreach.
  • Cons: For lead generation, you might receive numerous calls from interested contractors, which can be overwhelming. The quality of initial matches can vary, requiring further vetting on your part.
• Direct Professional Search:
  • Pros: Offers complete control over the vetting process. You can take your time to research, read reviews from various sources Google, Yelp, local directories, check licenses independently, and get multiple quotes on your own terms.
  • Cons: Significantly more time-consuming. You are responsible for every step, from identifying potential contractors to verifying their credentials and scheduling consultations.

Vetting and Quality Control

*   Pros: Claims to vet professionals by checking licenses and running background checks. They also rely on user reviews within their platform to help gauge quality. The "satisfaction promise" offers a theoretical layer of security.
*   Cons: The depth of vetting can be debated, and the quality of work is ultimately dependent on the independent contractor. If a professional performs poorly, Porch's role in dispute resolution might be limited. Reviews on their platform might not be as comprehensive as those found on broader review sites.
*   Pros: You control the vetting process entirely. You can ask for references, verify licenses and insurance directly with state boards, read reviews from diverse sources, and conduct in-depth interviews. This allows for a much more personalized and thorough assessment.
*   Cons: This thorough vetting requires significant effort and knowledge. If you're not experienced in hiring contractors, you might overlook important aspects. There's no third-party platform to mediate disputes.

Pricing and Negotiation

*   Pros: For specific handyman tasks, offers upfront, fixed pricing, which is clear and convenient. For larger projects, it generates multiple quotes, potentially fostering competition among pros.
*   Cons: While quotes are free, the pros are paying for these leads, which might indirectly influence their pricing strategies. You still need to compare and negotiate for larger projects.
*   Pros: Allows for direct negotiation with contractors. You can get quotes from a wide range of professionals, fostering competitive bidding without a third-party lead fee impacting the pro's cost structure. You have complete transparency on how the price is built.
*   Cons: Requires more effort to obtain multiple quotes. Some contractors might not be as eager to provide detailed quotes without a formal request for proposal.

Dispute Resolution

*   Pros: May offer some form of mediation or "satisfaction promise" for issues with pros found through their platform.
*   Cons: Their role in disputes is often limited. they are a facilitator, not the direct service provider. Resolving issues with a third-party contractor can still be challenging.
*   Pros: Any dispute is directly between you and the contractor. You can pursue legal avenues or consumer protection agencies directly if necessary.
*   Cons: You are solely responsible for managing and resolving any conflicts or issues with the professional. There's no platform to lean on for support or mediation.

Which Approach is Better?

• Choose Porch.com if: You need a quick solution for smaller, standardized tasks with clear upfront pricing like handyman services. You prioritize convenience and don’t mind getting calls from multiple pros for larger projects.
• Choose Direct Professional Search if: You prefer complete control over the hiring process, want to conduct thorough vetting yourself, and are comfortable investing more time to find the ideal professional for complex or critical projects. You value direct communication and transparency in pricing without an intermediary.

Ultimately, the “better” approach depends on your specific project, your comfort level with managing the process, and how much time you’re willing to invest.

For major investments like home renovations, a direct and meticulous approach is often recommended.

Protecting Yourself When Hiring Home Services

Regardless of whether you use a platform like Porch.com or find a professional directly, safeguarding your interests when hiring for home services is paramount.

This involves due diligence, clear communication, and proper documentation.

1. Thoroughly Vet Professionals Beyond Platform Claims

Do not solely rely on a platform’s vetting claims. Conduct your own independent verification.

• Check Licenses and Certifications: Verify that the professional or company is properly licensed for the work in your state and local municipality. A licensed professional is more likely to be legitimate and adhere to industry standards.
  • Data Point: In many states, you can search contractor licenses online through the state’s Department of Professional Regulation or equivalent.
• Verify Insurance: Ensure the professional carries adequate liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance.
  • Liability Insurance: Protects you if the contractor causes damage to your property.
  • Worker’s Compensation: Protects you from liability if a worker gets injured on your property. Ask for a certificate of insurance directly from their insurer.
• Review References and Past Work: Ask for references from previous clients and follow up on them. Look at portfolios or visit past project sites if feasible.
• Read Reviews from Multiple Sources: Don’t just rely on platform reviews. Check Google, Yelp, Better Business Bureau BBB, and other local review sites for a broader perspective on their reputation.
  • Tip: Look for patterns in reviews – consistent complaints about punctuality, quality, or communication are red flags.

2. Get Everything in Writing

A detailed written contract is your most important tool for protection.

Never proceed with significant work based on a verbal agreement.

• Detailed Scope of Work: The contract should clearly outline every aspect of the project: what will be done, materials to be used specific brands, colors, quantities, who is responsible for what, and any exclusions.
• Timeline: Include a start date, estimated completion date, and consequences for significant delays.
• Payment Schedule: Clearly define the total cost, payment milestones e.g., deposit, progress payments, final payment upon completion, and acceptable payment methods. Avoid paying large sums upfront. A reasonable deposit is typically 10-30%.
• Change Order Process: Outline how changes to the scope of work will be handled and how they will affect cost and timeline. All changes should be documented in writing.
• Warranty and Guarantees: Specify any warranties on labor and materials, including their duration and what they cover.
• Lien Waivers: For larger projects, especially those involving subcontractors, request lien waivers to ensure that all parties subcontractors, suppliers have been paid by the primary contractor before you make final payments. This prevents them from placing a lien on your property if they are not paid.

3. Clear Communication and Documentation

Maintain open lines of communication and keep meticulous records. Allnodes.com Reviews

• Communicate Expectations: Clearly articulate your needs and expectations to the professional from the outset.
• Document Everything: Keep a written record of all communications emails, text messages, meeting notes. If discussions happen verbally, follow up with an email summarizing what was agreed upon.
• Progress Photos: Take photos before, during, and after the project to document progress and quality.
• Payment Records: Keep receipts and records of all payments made.

4. Understand Payment Terms and Avoid Red Flags

Be cautious of unusual payment requests or pressure tactics.

• Avoid Large Upfront Payments: Be wary of contractors demanding a significant portion of the total cost upfront, especially for materials that haven’t been purchased yet.
• No Cash-Only Demands: Be suspicious of contractors who only accept cash payments. This can be a sign of an unprofessional or untrustworthy business.
• “Deals” That Seem Too Good to Be True: If a quote is significantly lower than others, it could indicate low-quality work, cutting corners, or hidden costs.
• Pressure to Sign Immediately: A reputable contractor will give you time to review the contract and make an informed decision.

By implementing these protective measures, you can significantly reduce your risk and increase the likelihood of a successful home service experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Porch.com?

Based on looking at the website, Porch.com is an online platform that aims to connect homeowners with various home service professionals for tasks ranging from moving and home improvement to maintenance and security.

2. Is Porch.com a legitimate company?

Yes, based on publicly available information and its widespread use, Porch.com appears to be a legitimate technology company that facilitates connections between homeowners and service providers.

3. How does Porch.com work for homeowners?

Homeowners can visit Porch.com, select the service they need e.g., handyman, moving, renovation, provide project details, and then Porch either connects them with local professionals who will provide quotes or offers upfront pricing for specific handyman tasks.

4. Is Porch.com free for homeowners?

Yes, submitting a project request and getting connected with professionals or receiving quotes on Porch.com is generally free for homeowners.

Porch typically charges the service professionals for leads or commissions on bookings.

5. How does Porch.com make money?

Porch.com generates revenue primarily by charging service professionals for leads, through software and services provided to businesses like home inspectors and moving companies, and by taking a commission on directly booked handyman services.

6. What types of services does Porch.com offer?

Porch.com offers a wide range of home services including moving assistance, handyman services e.g., furniture assembly, TV mounting, various home improvement projects e.g., plumbing, electrical, roofing, home inspections, and comparisons for internet/TV and home security systems.

7. Does Porch.com vet its professionals?

Porch.com states that it vets professionals, which typically involves checks for licenses and background. Pamo-design.com Reviews

However, it’s always advisable for homeowners to conduct their own independent verification as well.

8. Can I get upfront pricing on Porch.com?

Yes, for certain specific handyman services like appliance installation or furniture assembly, Porch.com provides upfront, fixed pricing directly on its website.

For larger projects, you will receive quotes from individual professionals.

9. What should I do if I have an issue with a professional found through Porch.com?

If you booked a direct Porch handyman service, contact Porch.com’s customer support.

If you hired an independent professional through Porch’s lead generation, your agreement is with that professional, and you should address issues directly with them, referring to your contract.

10. Can I cancel a service booked through Porch.com?

Yes, for services directly booked via Porch.com like handyman tasks, you can usually cancel through your account, subject to their cancellation policy.

For professionals you found through Porch but contracted directly, you must cancel with the professional based on your agreement with them.

11. Are Porch.com reviews reliable?

Reviews on Porch.com, like on any platform, offer insight into professional performance.

It’s best to cross-reference these reviews with those on other platforms e.g., Google, Yelp to get a more comprehensive and balanced view.

12. Does Porch.com offer services nationwide?

Porch.com aims to offer services in many major cities and regions across the United States. Onepay.com Reviews

Availability of specific services and professionals may vary by location.

13. Is Porch.com good for large renovation projects?

For large renovation projects, Porch.com can connect you with contractors for quotes.

However, for such significant undertakings, it’s crucial to conduct thorough independent vetting, secure detailed contracts, and manage the project closely.

14. What are some alternatives to Porch.com?

Alternatives to Porch.com include general home service marketplaces like Angi Angie’s List, HomeAdvisor, and Thumbtack, as well as specialized platforms like TaskRabbit for smaller jobs, or directly searching for licensed and insured local professionals.

15. How do I get quotes for my project on Porch.com?

You start by describing your project on the Porch.com website.

Porch then shares your project details with relevant professionals in their network who will contact you to provide quotes.

16. Does Porch.com offer a guarantee for work?

Porch.com mentions a “satisfaction promise” indicating a commitment to user happiness.

However, the exact terms and extent of any guarantee for work performed by independent third-party professionals should be clarified directly with Porch.com or the professional.

17. Can I compare home security systems on Porch.com?

Yes, Porch.com offers a feature to compare different home security systems, providing details on ratings, installation types, monthly fees, and upfront costs to help users choose.

18. Does Porch.com handle home insurance comparisons?

No. Grapevineproperty.co.uk Reviews

Based on looking at the website, Porch.com explicitly offers comparisons for home insurance, allowing users to “compare quotes from top insurance providers.” However, as a Muslim blog, we advise against engaging in interest-based insurance which is a form of Riba interest and uncertainty Gharar as it is not permissible.

Instead, explore Takaful Islamic insurance options where available, which operate on principles of mutual cooperation and shared responsibility, aligning with ethical financial practices.

19. How do I remove my contact information from Porch.com?

If you’re receiving unwanted communications, check your Porch.com account settings for notification preferences.

You may also need to directly inform any professionals who contact you to remove your information from their lists.

20. Is Porch.com affiliated with moving companies?

Yes, Porch.com explicitly states it works with moving companies and provides software and service technology to them through HireAHelper, which is part of the Porch Group.