House Minding Blog

So you have taken the brave decision to have someone mind your house while you are away. What would be the things to keep in mind?

Write a list of duties for the house sitter
* garbage collection mention day of the week, recycling options
* mail to be collected, sort out junk mail
* animals to be fed, walking the dog
* lawn to be mowed
* watering the garden
* swimming pool maintenance

Write a checklist for yourself
* set of keys
* house alarm activation procedure
* appliance manuals handy
* pet food supplies
* your travel itinerary
* how you can be contacted in an emergency
* vet phone number
* tradespeople if repairs needed

If some rooms in your house are out of bounds for the house sitter, should you install internal door locks? Should you have a safe to store jewellery and other valuables? What about a lockable cupboard or wardrobe?

Get over the idea that you might charge rent. There is equal argument to say that the house sitter could charge you fees for looking after your house. Even your home insurance policy could become void if money changes hands.

Tell your neighbours that someone will be minding your house in your absence. No need to risk them calling the police to dob in your house sitter as an intruder...

If you have a guest room for the house sitter to sleep in should you empty some drawers and shelves to make room for their personal belongings?

What about making a video of yourself caring for your dog? Mention as you go along all the things the carer needs to be aware of. (Dogs don't talk).

Explain procedures to use channel TV and internet. (How many remote controls do you have on your coffee table?)

Are there water restrictions in force?

Do indoor plants need special attention?

Contingency plans - what to do if your return is delayed?

Make your house clean, neat and tidy when the house sitter moves in. That's likely how you will find it on your return. (People are motivated to care for a place in good condition, but are put off having to live in a mess).

How to prepare for a storm. Has your area been hit by floods, tornados or other disasters before? How did you cope?

Conducting an interview can be done over the phone or on Skype if you want eye contact. Does the house sitter offer any references?

Prepare an agreement in writing stipulating what is expected of each party. Specify the dates of your departure.

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