Having numerous home repair tasks on your to-do list can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you lack the time or expertise to tackle them. Whether your gutters are filled with debris due to neglect or your Christmas flat-pack furniture remains unassembled, a “Shark Tank” entrepreneur has developed an app that could assist you. Though initially rejected by NextDoor’s Nirav Tolia and businessman Marc Cuban, two other Sharks recognized the potential in Dave Heimbuch’s app, which connects off-duty firefighters with homeowners needing assistance. Robert Herjavec and Lori Greiner invested in the app, helped rebrand it, and struck a deal with Heimbuch, which led to the expansion of his home improvement service technology to over $1 million in revenue and its nationwide reach. By downloading the Helpful Heroes app, you can quickly share details about your home repair projects with firefighters and EMTs in your area who are willing to help.
While some home improvement tasks, such as bathroom renovations or significant structural work, should be left to professionals, others can be accomplished with a little extra help. The Helpful Heroes app offers a range of basic service categories to choose from. Each category, from furniture moving to TV wall mounting, includes an expected price range. Even if you decide not to use a hero for a particular service, this feature can be quite useful for determining a reasonable budget for basic home repairs in your area.
How it works
After downloading Helpful Heroes from the App Store or Google Play, you can set up a free account and select your project type. Start by entering your address to ensure there is a firefighter or EMT available in your area. (We found heroes in various East Coast locations available for different project types.) Next, you’ll be asked to provide project details, including a basic title, description, and your preferred service date. You can also upload pictures of your project or job site. Once you submit the details, you’ll receive a project estimate. If you agree to the terms, you’ll be prompted to enter your credit card information. Your project will then be posted on the Helpful Heroes Pro app, where firefighters can review and connect with you about your project. You will be charged for their services once your project is completed.
The app is still relatively new, and reviews are mixed. Some users find it invaluable, while others find it challenging to use, citing a lack of available jobs or firefighters in their area. Nevertheless, the Sharks saw potential in this concept because it addresses some of the difficulties associated with hiring a handyperson. Helpful Heroes leverages the thorough vetting and background checks conducted on firefighters and EMTs by their local stations to ensure the reliability of their service providers. The company also offers insurance, providing coverage in case of any mishaps.
