Getting ready for your homesitter

Posted on 19 March, 2024

Image by Homeo Grapher from Pixabay

Written by Kayak PR for Homesitters Ltd

Home is where the heart is, and our homes are undoubtedly one of our most cherished possessions. However, leaving our home unattended when jetting off on holiday can expose them to various risks from opportunistic burglars to unexpected incidents like burst pipes, fencings blowing down or a smashed window.

This is where we can step in by providing reliable individuals who take care of your home, pets, and plants while you're away. After booking your homesitter and having your preliminary meeting, we recommend you prepare your house before they arrive to ensure a seamless experience for both you and your homesitter.

Here’s our essential guide on how to prepare:

Create a home and pet manual

The foundation of a successful homesitting experience lies in effective communication. The preliminary meeting enables a homesitter and client to run through all the important information about the home, from the alarm codes to emergency contacts. It’s also an opportunity be introduced to any pets and run through their routine.

As this may happen a few months before the assignment, it’s useful to create a home and pet guide for your homesitter to read when they arrive as a reminder. This should include all the information on the pet’s routine and everything they need to know about the home, including specific guidelines or peculiarities.

Do a home safety checklist

Doing a safety audit before a homesitter is due should be a priority. This means checking for potential hazards and dealing with them. This includes ensuring smoke detectors and security systems are in working order as well as checking that any chemicals such as paint or cleaning liquids are all safely stored. Also, make sure there is nothing for people to trip up on around the house and garden. Knowing this has been done ensures peace of mind for both homesitter and client that they are staying in a safe and secure environment.

Stock up on essentials

Make sure to stock up on essential items the homesitter will need whilst you are away and that there is enough to cover the whole period. This could be pet food, any medication a pet is on as well as cleaning supplies such as dish washer tablets. Leaving a food pack of essentials such as milk, bread, butter, tea and coffee is a good idea too, but not essential as you pay them a daily food allowance. Ensuring that your homesitter has everything at their disposal minimises disruptions and allows them to focus on the task at hand – taking care of your home and pets.

Prepare the guest room

Ensure the guest room where the homesitter will sleep is ready is clean and tidy, with fresh linen on the bed and towels left out (unless you ask the homesitter(s) to bring their own bedding). It may also be worth adding a note to ask the homesitter to wash this prior to them leaving, if practical to do so, and leave instructions for the washing machine in the home manual.

Emergency plans

Be prepared for the unexpected by outlining emergency plans. Share contact information for neighbours or friends who can assist in case of an emergency on the Home Data Card provided to you. Ensure that your homesitter is aware of the location of fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and any other emergency supplies. Leaving a list of emergency contact numbers such as a vet, plumber, electrician etc. is vital too and should be included in the home manual.

Speak to neighbours

Let close neighbours know that you are going away and that a homesitter will be staying, so if they see someone they don’t recognise they don’t need to worry. This avoids any awkward conversations or nosey neighbours wondering why a stranger is in the home or garden.

Technology assistance

If your home has smart devices, provide clear instructions for them. Whether its security systems, thermostats, or smart appliances, familiarise your homesitter with the technology at the preliminary meeting and leave instructions in the manual. Remember to leave Wi-Fi codes and any other TV codes that the homesitter may need during their stay.

Conclusion

Leaving your home in the hands of a homesitter doesn't just mean ensuring security; it's about creating an environment where they can comfortably and confidently carry out their responsibilities. By following this guide, you're not only safeguarding your home but also contributing to a positive experience for both you and your homesitter. This means you can head off on your holiday with peace of mind that your home it’s in capable and caring hands.

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