What does homesitting offer our sitters?

  • the chance to stay in a variety of homes, and to enjoy their amenities and surroundings
  • the opportunity to see new places and explore different areas
  • the company of pets without the commitment or expense of owning them
  • the responsibility of standing in for other homeowners
  • modest remuneration to supplement your income
  • a food allowance and travel expenses (both tax free)
  • a considerable saving in your own household costs (such as heating and electricity) while on assignment
  • freedom of choice in both the type and number of homesits you undertake
  • the benefit of the company’s 24 hour backup and comprehensive insurance cover

Remuneration

The primary rewards for homesitting are non-financial but they do include modest remuneration to supplement a pension or other income. Your working time is remunerated at not less than the prevailing rate of National Minimum Wage plus appropriate holiday pay. Additional increments may be paid for the care of pets.

Most of our Sitters are of pensionable age and therefore do not pay NI contributions. Liability to income tax depends on individual circumstances. We are required to deduct tax (PAYE) and NI contributions where applicable.

When a couple homesit together, only one partner is required to become our Sitter; this person becomes an employee for pay and tax purposes.

Potential employees in receipt of state benefits should check how these would be affected by any earnings from homesitting before proceeding with an application.

Travelling expenses

The client will pay your travelling expenses to and from the preliminary meeting and the homesit. If you travel by car, tax free mileage refunds (for running costs) are based on current AA recommended rates (40p per mile in 2008/9).

Living expenses

While on assignment you can expect a normal standard of comfort and warmth but with a careful eye on the budget! In addition, the client will leave you a tax free daily food allowance (£7.00 per day in 2008/9). If you sit with a partner, food money is not provided for the second person.