Will AI replace house sitters?

Why AI struggles to replace this job

• Physical presence is a psychological deterrent to burglars that smart cameras cannot fully replicate.
• AI cannot perform physical maintenance tasks like cleaning up debris after a storm or fixing a tripped breaker.
• Homeowners value the subjective peace of mind that comes from a person who can 'sense' if something feels wrong in the environment.
• Managing unique household quirks and plant care requires adaptable physical intervention.

Tasks AI could automate

• Monitoring home security camera feeds for suspicious activity using computer vision.
• Adjusting smart thermostats and lighting schedules to simulate occupancy.
• Reminding homeowners about mail arrival or utility maintenance schedules.
• Generating status reports for homeowners using sensor data from the property.

The 10-year outlook

The role will increasingly integrate with smart home technology, shifting toward a 'property manager' hybrid model. Demand will persist among high-net-worth individuals who require physical security for luxury estates.

Common questions