Services in exchange for accommodation: examples & guidelines

Accommodation in exchange for services means hosting someone (free of charge or with a reduced rent) in return for services provided—within a safe and fair framework.

Which services can be exchanged for accommodation?

Services should remain reasonable and compatible with shared living. The goal is a balanced arrangement: clear tasks, a realistic schedule, and mutual respect.

Many hosts choose this model for daily support (home help, childcare, pet care), or for intergenerational living with a reassuring presence.

Common services exchanged for accommodation

Practical examples by need—adapt them to your situation and expectations.

Home help

Simple and highly requested services to make everyday life easier.

  • Cleaning

  • Ironing

  • Grocery shopping

  • Meal preparation

  • Daily organisation

Children & family

Practical support for families, especially single parents.

  • Babysitting

  • School pick-up

  • Homework help

  • Evening childcare

  • Activity accompaniment

Seniors & intergenerational living

Reassuring presence and light help, within a clear framework.

  • Evening presence

  • Light assistance

  • Appointment accompaniment

  • Friendly conversation

  • Basic admin help

Pets & home

Ideal when the host is away or needs occasional support.

  • Pet sitting

  • Dog walking

  • Home sitting

  • Plant watering

  • Property supervision

DIY & outdoor tasks

Small tasks and maintenance—without turning into a construction site.

  • Minor repairs

  • Furniture assembly

  • Gardening

  • Light outdoor maintenance

  • Occasional troubleshooting

Support & skills

Useful skills to define clearly (scope, frequency, time).

  • Tutoring

  • Languages

  • IT help

  • Admin support (CV, forms)

  • Well-being / sports support

How to define a clear and fair framework

A successful exchange is built on transparency. Before starting, clarify: tasks, hours per week, frequency, and exit conditions.

We strongly recommend a written agreement to protect both host and guest.

Good practice

Services should remain compatible with shared living. If the workload becomes significant, the framework (and contract type) should be reviewed.

Ready to get started?

Post a listing or find accommodation in exchange for services with a reassuring framework.

Frequently asked questions

What is ToitChezMoi? +

ToitChezMoi is a platform that connects people offering accommodation with people offering services, based on a home-for-services exchange.

The goal is to support a clear and reassuring co-living arrangement with transparent profiles and conversations.

How many service hours can be requested? +

On ToitChezMoi, the maximum is 15 hours of services. We recommend formalizing the agreement (services, schedule, duration) for a clear framework.

Do I need to pay anything before visiting the accommodation? +

No. You should never be asked to pay anything to “reserve” a place before meeting the host and visiting the accommodation. If someone insists, this is a warning sign—please report the profile immediately.

Is ToitChezMoi available in my area? +

Yes, ToitChezMoi is available throughout France, and the service is intended to expand internationally over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ToitChezMoi? +

ToitChezMoi is a platform that connects people offering accommodation with people offering services, based on a home-for-services exchange.

The goal is to support a clear and reassuring co-living arrangement with transparent profiles and conversations.

How many service hours can be requested? +

On ToitChezMoi, the maximum is 15 hours of services. We recommend formalizing the agreement (services, schedule, duration) for a clear framework.

Do I need to pay anything before visiting the accommodation? +

No. You should never be asked to pay anything to “reserve” a place before meeting the host and visiting the accommodation. If someone insists, this is a warning sign—please report the profile immediately.

Is ToitChezMoi available in my area? +

Yes, ToitChezMoi is available throughout France, and the service is intended to expand internationally over time.