What is House Sitting?

Definition of House Sitting

House sitting is an arrangement between a homeowner and a house sitter.  The role of the house sitter is to provide security and some care taking responsibilities in the homeowners absence.

Assignments can vary in length from a couple of days or weeks to months, and there are properties available in well known, as well as off-the-beaten track locations around the globe. Additional definition available on wikipedia

What does the Homeowner provide?

The Homeowner allows the house sitter to occupy their house for a specific period of time rent-free.  All of the other elements of a house sitting arrangement, like utilities, travel, visa’s, chores and responsibilities are open to negotiation. One of the main factors to consider when negotiating these, is the location of the property.

What does the House Sitter provide?

In return for a rent-free living arrangement, a house sitter is usually expected to assume some care-taking responsibilities, such as maintenance of a pool or garden, watering plants, property upkeep or caring for pets. Each house sitting assignment is different, and all responsibilities should be agreed beforehand to ensure there is a clear understanding of expectations.

Remember, a house sitting assignment is not a free vacation – it’s a work assignment, and there should be some form of written agreement between both parties.  This can be formal contract or a less-formal written agreement, depending on the duration of the house sitting assignment.  In either case, it needs to clarify who is covering costs (e.g. utilities), and what duties need to be performed.

What’s the benefit of a House Sitting arrangement?

The word “House Sitting” has been in use since the mid-60′s.  But in today’s society, where more an more people are home owners, or own a vacation property, the opportunities to house sit have become more prevalent.  So:

• What’s in it for the Homeowner?
• What’s in it for the House Sitter?