25 House sitters available in The UK

Job Description

A House Sitter is responsible for maintaining and safeguarding a client’s home while they are away. This role requires trustworthiness, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to ensuring the property remains secure, clean, and well-maintained. House sitters provide peace of mind to homeowners by acting as a live-in or frequent-visit presence to prevent theft, damage, or emergencies.

Benefits to House Sitters

• Live Rent-Free: Stay in homes worldwide without paying for lodging.
• Explore New Areas: Experience neighborhoods, cities, or countries like a local.
• Utilities Included:Most homeowners cover electricity, water, Wi-Fi, and sometimes groceries.
• Paid Opportunities: Some roles offer stipends (e.g., $30–$80/day), especially for long-term or specialized care (e.g., farm sitting).
• Work Remotely: Ideal for digital nomads seeking quiet, furnished spaces with Wi-Fi.
• Overtime Pay: They often have opportunities for paid overtime, especially during dry docks or special projects, significantly boosting their earnings.
• Networking: Build relationships with homeowners for repeat sits or referrals.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Vacation days, sick leave, and holidays (varies by company).
• No Long-Term Lease: Perfect for nomads, students, or retirees exploring new areas.
• Affordable Travel:The cost savings on accommodation enable house sitters to travel further, for longer, or to destinations that might otherwise be unaffordable.
• Flexibility: The lengths of house sits vary, from a few days to several months, allowing sitters to tailor assignments to their personal schedule and availability.
• Minimal Requirements: No college degree needed; often just a driver’s license and clean record.
• Networking and Community: House sitting can lead to new friendships and connections within a community of like-minded people.

House Sitters' Responsibilities

• Occupy the Property: Stay overnight or visit frequently (as agreed) to deter theft, vandalism, or squatters.
• Security Checks: Regularly inspect doors, windows, gates, and alarms to ensure they’re secure.
• Daily Feeding: Provide pets with food, fresh water, and treats according to instructions.
• Exercise and Play: Walk dogs, play with cats, or engage other pets to prevent boredom/anxiety.
• Medication: Administer pills, injections, or topical treatments as directed.
• Grooming: Brush fur, clean litter boxes, or bathe pets if needed.
• Pool/Hot Tub Maintenance: Skim debris, test chemicals, and run filters if applicable.
• Trash/Recycling: Take bins to the curb on collection days and bring them back.
• Mail and Packages: Collect and secure mail, newspapers, and deliveries.
• Basic Cleaning: Keep the home tidy—sweep floors, wipe counters, etc. (unless deep cleaning is requested).
• Problem-Solving: Handle issues like leaks, power outages, or appliance failures.
• Contact Homeowner: Inform owners of problems and follow their guidance.
• Coordinate Repairs: Call approved vendors (e.g., plumbers, electricians) for emergencies.
• Vehicle Care: Start cars periodically or move them for street cleaning.
• Stock Supplies: Restock pet food, toilet paper, or other essentials if requested.
• Respect Privacy: Avoid sharing details or photos of the home online without permission.

House Sitters' Requirements

• Trustworthiness: Homeowners must feel confident leaving their property and pets with you.
• Responsibility: Ability to follow instructions carefully and prioritize tasks.
• Reliability: Punctuality and commitment to the agreed-upon schedule.
• Pet Care Knowledge: Experience feeding, walking, and administering medication to animals.
• Home Maintenance Basics: Skills like watering plants, handling thermostats, and troubleshooting minor issues (e.g., resetting circuit breakers).
• Emergency Response: calmness under pressure and problem-solving skills for leaks, power outages, or pet emergencies.
• Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least one year beyond the contract start date.
• Availability: Flexibility to stay overnight or visit the home frequently based on the homeowner’s needs.
• Visa Eligibility: Must be eligible for and obtain any visas required for the destination country.
• Transportation: Access to a car for emergencies, grocery runs, or pet vet visits.
• Communication: Smartphone for updates, photos, and emergency calls.
• Physical Mobility: Ability to perform tasks like walking dogs, carrying pet food, or maintaining yards.
• Tech Savviness: Use home security systems, smart devices, or apps for updates.
• References: Past house sitting, pet sitting, or babysitting references.
• Background Check: Some homeowners may require one.
• First Aid/CPR Certification: For pets or humans—adds credibility.
• Local Knowledge: Familiarity with area veterinarians, emergency services, or home repair contacts.
• Long-Term Availability: Deliver packages within strict time windows.
 
• Language Knowledge of some English is an added advantage .

Note: No formal education qualification required. Training will be provided to successful candidates.