Medical appointments have gone virtual. Zoom has all but replaced workplace meetings. And now, there’s a new can’t-live-without-it, at-home service we’re loving. Hippo Home Care is now offering free tele-maintenance to help owners keep their home functioning while we’re all hunkered down.

“Using our free tele-maintenance service, you can talk directly with a Home Pro whenever you have questions or issues around your home,” said Hippo. “We can help. Schedule a complimentary virtual ‘house call’ with a Hippo Home Care Pro who can help you with home maintenance by phone or video.”

The company has completely shifted to a virtual model for the time being as a service to customers who might not be comfortable having strangers in their house during the pandemic. Customers can schedule a Virtual House Call to troubleshoot specific issues and also use the tele-maintenance service for a complimentary guided Hippo Home Care Home Checkup. “Think of it like getting a car tune-up or a physical, only this one is for your house,” they said. 

The free service is available to anyone in the U.S. who needs help with home repair or maintenance. Homeowners can visit the company’s website to schedule a time to talk to a certified professional. During the appointment, Hippo’s Home Pros can “walk you through resolving (issues) yourself or recommend getting professional help.” Calls are set in 30-minute increments, but, should the problem not be fixed, the call may be extended, or Hippo can arrange an in-home service from a local provider, if needed. Customers should be prepared with a general set of tools; screwdrivers, Allen wrenches, adjustable wrenches, and a cordless drill can typically do the trick.

The service was originally rolled out to a select group of customers, but the company expanded it once they gauged the need. You can visit Hippo to make an appointment.