Preparing Your Home for a House Sitter

2 min read

Leaving your home in the hands of a house sitter can provide peace of mind while you're away. To ensure a smooth and successful experience for both you and your house sitter, it's essential to prepare your home thoroughly. Here are some tips to help you get ready:

1. Create a Welcome Guide

Prepare a comprehensive welcome guide that includes important information about your home. This guide should cover:

Emergency contacts (e.g., neighbors, family, utility companies).
Instructions for using household appliances and systems.
Wi-Fi password and any necessary access codes.
Pet care instructions if applicable (feeding schedules, medications, favorite toys).

2. Stock Up on Essentials

Make sure your house sitter has everything they need during their stay. Stock up on essentials such as:

Cleaning supplies and toiletries.
Pet food and supplies.
Non-perishable food items and snacks.

3. Prepare Your Home

Clean and organize your home to create a welcoming environment. This includes:

Tidying up common areas and bedrooms.
Cleaning the kitchen and bathrooms.
Changing bed linens and providing fresh towels.
Emptying the trash and recycling bins.

4. Provide Clear Instructions

Leave detailed instructions for any specific tasks you expect your house sitter to perform. This may include:

Watering plants (with a schedule and specific instructions).
Taking out the trash on designated days.
Handling any scheduled maintenance or deliveries.

5. Set Up Security Measures

Ensure your home is secure by setting up any necessary security measures. This may involve:

Providing keys or access codes.
Demonstrating how to use security systems or alarm systems.
Informing your neighbors or neighborhood watch about your house sitter's presence.

6. Communicate Expectations

Be clear about your expectations and house rules. Discuss:

Guidelines for using certain areas of the house.
Policies on visitors or overnight guests.
Any specific routines or habits you’d like maintained.

7. Pet Care Instructions

If you have pets, provide detailed care instructions to ensure their well-being. This should include:

Feeding schedules and portion sizes.
Exercise routines and preferred walking routes.
Any medications or special care needs.
Contact information for your veterinarian.

8. Emergency Plan

Outline an emergency plan for your house sitter, including:

Locations of emergency exits and fire extinguishers.
Instructions on what to do in case of an emergency.
Contact information for you and any nearby friends or family.

9. Stay in Touch

Maintain open communication with your house sitter while you're away. Provide them with your contact information and check in periodically to ensure everything is going smoothly.

10. Express Gratitude

Show appreciation for your house sitter by leaving a thank-you note or small gift. A little gesture can go a long way in making them feel valued and appreciated,

By following these tips, you can ensure your home is well-prepared for your house sitter, making their stay comfortable and enjoyable while giving you peace of mind. A well-prepared home not only makes the sitter's job easier but also ensures that everything runs smoothly in your absence.