If you run a home services business—whether it’s plumbing, HVAC, electrical, or similar—your next inquiry might come not from a person, but from an AI agent acting on a homeowner’s behalf. This "machine customer" gathers quotes, checks reviews, compares warranties, and makes decisions almost instantly—without the influence of human emotion.
A Conversation Between Two AI Agents
Meet Jane, a busy homeowner whose water heater has stopped working. Instead of handling the issue herself, she calls on her AI assistant, Max. After a brief check, Max suspects a failing thermocouple or gas valve and contacts several providers. One of those providers, Superior Plumbing Company, uses its own AI agent, BizBot, to manage incoming requests. Here’s how a conversation between Max and BizBot might look:
It’s normal to feel both excitement and worry when you learn about AI agents negotiating on behalf of homeowners. Some fear losing the personal touch, while others worry they can’t keep pace with constant technology updates. However, this isn’t science fiction—machine customers are happening now, and most businesses are unprepared.
The Answer: Business AI
For home service providers, the key to competing with machine customers is to adopt your own AI solutions. Tools like ChatGPT help homeowners, but home service businesses need equally efficient technology to keep up. By offering clear, competitive information supported by data and strong service guarantees, you can stay ahead of competitors who rely solely on human interactions.
Final Thoughts
Machine customers are not a distant concept—they’re here now. Adapting early to this change means embracing clear, competitive pricing and reliable service. With the right AI tools, you can meet modern customer expectations and ensure your business remains the top choice in a data-driven market.
[1] "Google's `Ask for me` feature calls businesses on your behalf to inquire about services, pricing", https://techcrunch.com/2025/01/30/googles-ask-for-me-feature-calls-businesses-on-your-behalf-to-inquire-about-services-pricing/
[2] "Your most important customer may be AI", https://apple.news/AAWASZnA4SyG_cbVjHvjxDw