Subjective situations
Let’s talk about subjective, unrealistic house sitting situations. These are things that are perhaps acceptable to some, but unacceptable to others. They wouldn’t necessarily be deemed unacceptable IF they had been discussed at the interview stage.
Security cameras and surveillance equipment
While it is usually acceptable for external security cameras, it is not generally considered OK for internal cameras, or voice monitoring equipment that films or records house sitters throughout the house sit. This goes against the trust that is the basis of a house sitting arrangement. It is especially unrealistic (and possibly illegal in some countries) to film secretly. Some sitters don’t worry about cameras, others will, but it’s fair to disclose cameras in initial conversations or even in your profile. If they are required by insurance, provide the option to switch off while in the house and activate when out, like an alarm – even if this involves covering the cameras. TrustedHousesitters state in their terms that you must “notify the sitter of the use and location of any CCTV or monitoring equipment prior to commencement of a sit (failure to do so will result in suspension of your membership).” We would add that this should be disclosed asap and not left until the handover, which is technically before the sit commences!
Now that security equipment is much more affordable, it’s important that as a house sitter you ask about this as early as possible in the discussions, so that there are no surprises.
Vegan or eco-friendly, green properties
In this situation there may be special considerations that need to be adhered to, such as no meat products in the kitchen, use of only eco-friendly toiletries, and possibly the use of only a composting toilet. Fine if discussed and accepted by the house sitters, but a shock if they arrive and are not prepared.
Remote or off-grid properties
If not experienced in remote house sitting or off-grid living, this may be a difficult first assignment for some house sitters. It’s important they are informed about all aspects, including any special daily maintenance that may be needed. You may also need to give specific instructions for solar systems, rain water collection and management, and other remote living challenges. Power management might be a new concept for remote workers who need access to their computers and wifi on a continual basis!
Lodgers
If you have a lodger, boarder, or elderly relative living in the property, in an adjoining house or within the grounds, it is courteous to discuss this with the house sitters in advance. It’s up to them whether to accept in this situation.
Building work with unacceptable noise
Don’t knowingly move out of the home to go on vacation because of building work in your house, on adjoining land, or in a neighbour’s home. This will be especially distressing for the house sitter if it impacts on their ability to work from the home.
Emptying the pool
If the property is listed as having a pool, don’t empty it prior to the house sitters arrival, just to save on pool cleaning and maintenance costs. Let them know you plan to do this in advance and perhaps give them the opportunity to maintain the pool or pay to have it maintained.
Paid staff
Don’t retain the services of a house keeper, gardener or other staff and expect the house sitter to personally pay their wages without prior discussion. Similarly, don’t provide staff but not inform the house sitters until they arrive. While many will welcome the help, some people are extremely uncomfortable having staff in the house, and dealing with their pay, especially when it involves a different language.
Unpaid care of a B&B, Airbnb, hotel or rental business
Looking after a business with no payment is a no-no for many house sitters, who are very clear that this is a job, not a house sit. Others may welcome the chance to gain experience in a business environment. Full disclosure should always be made, and any arrangements to split the income, pay a stipend, or salary, should be clearly discussed and agreed (I would suggest in writing) well before the assignment begins.
Cancelling a sit after house sitters have committed to an expensive international flight
This is a tricky situation, as we can’t always prepare for unexpected emergencies, accidents, family deaths etc. But likewise, your house sitters may have incurred a hefty charge for airfares. As a gesture you could pay for alternative accommodation, help them find another house sitting option, or put them up while they organize their alternative accommodation. If it’s within your means, then paying the flight cancellation fee would be very much appreciated.
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