Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about BuddyHelps.
General
What is BuddyHelps?
BuddyHelps is an AI phone answering service built for plumbers. When you can't answer your phone, Buddy picks up, has a real conversation with your customer, and texts you the details immediately.
How is this different from voicemail?
78% of callers hang up rather than leave a voicemail. With Buddy, they talk to someone - so they don't call your competitor instead.
How is this different from an answering service?
Traditional answering services cost $300-400+/month, charge per minute, and use scripts. Buddy costs $197 every 4 weeks with unlimited calls, and actually understands plumbing.
Is Buddy a real person?
Buddy is AI, but he sounds natural. Call the demo line and see if you can tell: (780) 298-1360
How It Works
How do calls get to Buddy?
You set up call forwarding on your phone. When you can't answer (or choose not to), calls forward to your BuddyHelps number automatically.
Can I control when Buddy answers?
Yes. You can forward all calls, only unanswered calls, only after-hours calls, or toggle it manually when you're on a job.
What does Buddy learn from the call?
Buddy has a real conversation. By the time the call ends, you know who called, where they are, what's wrong, how urgent it is, and how to reach them. It comes naturally from the conversation, not from running through a checklist.
How do I get the lead information?
Text message immediately after the call ends. You can also get email notifications with full transcripts.
Can Buddy book appointments on my calendar?
No. Buddy has a conversation and you call back. You control your schedule, your pricing, your decisions. That's the point.
Concerns
"My customers want to talk to ME, not a robot."
They will - when you call them back. Right now, when you can't answer, they're getting your voicemail... then calling your competitor. Buddy keeps them on the line until you're ready.
"Can AI actually understand plumbing problems?"
Buddy doesn't diagnose - that's your job. He gets their name, number, address, and "water coming through my ceiling." You decide what to do with that info.
"What if Buddy screws up?"
Every call is transcribed and sent to you. Need to hear a specific call? Just ask. Buddy has conversations and schedules callbacks - he doesn't give quotes or plumbing advice.
"I don't need another bill."
$197 every 4 weeks is less than one service call. If Buddy books one extra job you'd have lost to voicemail, he's paid for himself. Everything after is profit.
"My wife handles the calls."
Perfect - she handles what she can, and Buddy catches what she can't. When she's at dinner or needs a break, calls still get answered. She might love it more than you.
"What if it sounds robotic?"
Call the demo line right now and see for yourself. Most callers don't realise it's AI - they just know someone answered professionally.
Pricing & Billing
How much does BuddyHelps cost?
$197 every 4 weeks. No per-minute charges, no hidden fees. One job pays for it.
Is there a setup fee?
Not for our founding customers. After that, setup is $350.
Is there a contract?
No. Cancel anytime.
What's the money-back guarantee?
If BuddyHelps doesn't work for you in the first 28 days, we'll refund your first billing cycle in full. No questions asked. Just cancel in your dashboard and email cameron@buddyhelps.ca
How do I cancel?
One click in your dashboard. No hoops, no retention calls, no guilt trips.
Privacy & Security
Where is my data stored?
We're a Canadian company, PIPEDA compliant. Your data may be processed by our cloud providers in various locations.
Who can access my call recordings?
Call transcripts go straight to your email. We occasionally review recordings to improve Buddy.
Do you share my customer information?
Never. Your leads are yours.
Support
How do I get help?
Email cameron@buddyhelps.ca. We're based in Ferintosh, AB and respond quickly.
Is there a knowledge base or documentation?
Yes! Visit our Help Center for setup guides, troubleshooting, and carrier-specific call forwarding instructions.