Hiring a contractor in South Africa often feels like a bit of a gamble. Whether it’s a geyser that’s decided to pack up in the middle of a cold snap or a distribution board that won’t stop tripping, the anxiety is the same. You find yourself scrolling through lists of strangers on the internet, hoping the person you choose actually shows up, knows what they’re doing, and won’t charge you a small fortune for what turns out to be a simple fix.

At Kandua, we knew there had to be a better way to get things done. We’ve spent years listening to homeowners talk about diagnosis paralysis and the fear of being overcharged. That’s why we’re back with a completely new experience designed to take the guesswork out of home maintenance.

The End of the Home Service Gamble

The home service gamble just ended. We’ve introduced Jess, your new AI Home Companion who lives right on the Kandua website.

Think of Jess as that one friend who knows everything about houses. She’s there around the clock to help you understand what’s actually going on with your home before you even think about booking a professional. Jess doesn’t just give you a list of names; she provides the relief and clarity you need to move forward with confidence.

How Jess Helps You (Without the Guessing)

Jess is designed to help you in two very specific ways, depending on what your home needs today.

1. Finding Out What’s Wrong with Booking Mode

If you have a problem but aren’t sure what to ask for, Jess is your technical translator. Instead of guessing if you need a plumber or just a plunger, you can describe the issue in your own words.

• Simple Diagnosis: You tell Jess something like 'my lights are flickering,' and she’ll help figure out if it’s a loose wire or a distribution board fault.
• The Right Match: Once she understands the job, she connects you to a pro who has been vetted and verified for that exact task.
• Accurate Quotes: Because Jess creates a detailed brief for the pro, you get accurate pricing and no nasty surprises when the bill arrives.

2. Expert Advice on Your Schedule with Advice Mode

Sometimes you don’t need a pro; you just need a plan. Jess acts as your trusted guide for maintaining your home and protecting its value.

• Home Protection: Ask her anything, like the top three things you should do when moving into a new house to keep it safe.
• Seasonal Care: Worried about summer storms or winter wear and tear? Get a checklist of maintenance to do before the seasons change to keep your home protected and comfortable.
• Smart Upgrades: If you’re thinking about solar or security upgrades, Jess can help you weigh up the costs and considerations so you make the best decision for your budget.

Why You Can Breathe Easier

The biggest difference with the new Kandua is that we’ve done the heavy lifting for you. We don’t just list anyone. We check for the critical things that matter, like a Wireman’s License or a valid COC (Certificate of Compliance).

Our vetting process is backed by the standards of Santam. If South Africa’s leading insurer trusts our vetting, you can too. We also work closely with Leroy Merlin to ensure that the person behind your home repairs is one you can rely on.

Join the Kandua Certainty Club

We’re just getting started. If you want to be the first to get your hands on our local price benchmarks, compliance tips, and expert home guides, it’s time to join the Kandua Certainty Club.

Our newsletter community is where we share the secrets to keeping your home running perfectly without the stress. Join the Kandua Certainty Club today and let’s start getting the job done right, every single time.

Questions That People Ask Jess Most Frequently

How do I know if my geyser problem needs professional attention?

If water is coming through your ceiling, you know your geyser has burst and you need to shut off your water and power immediately. However, for other 'eish' moments like lukewarm water or strange noises, Jess can help you figure out if you're facing a simple part replacement, like a faulty thermostat or element, or a high-priority situation that needs an emergency plumber on-site. Either way, she will match you with a verified pro who is qualified to handle the repair safely.

What is a COC and why do I need one?

A Certificate of Compliance (COC) is a legal document that proves your electrical installation is safe and meets South African standards. You need this to sell your house or to make an insurance claim if there is an electrical fire. Jess can help you find a pro with a Wireman's License who is legally allowed to issue one.

How can I avoid being overcharged for a home repair?

The gamble usually happens when a contractor gives a vague quote. Jess solves this by diagnosing the exact issue first. You can also ask Jess for a Fair Price Benchmark to see what a specific job typically costs in your area before you agree to any work.

Is it safe to let a stranger into my home for a repair?

We take safety seriously. Every pro on our platform undergoes insurance-grade vetting. We check their backgrounds and their professional certifications so you don't have to spend hours doing it yourself.

Can Jess help me with DIY projects?

Absolutely. If you’re tackling a weekend project, you can use Advice Mode to get step-by-step guidance. If the job gets too complicated, Jess will let you know when it’s time to call in a verified expert to avoid a costly mistake.

Have a home maintenance question? Ask Jess about the best way to approach it: www.kandua.com

Join the Kandua Certainty Club for price benchmarks and expert compliance tips: www.kandua.com/home-advice

‍