Leaving your home and pets in someone else’s care can feel daunting—but the right house sitter can give you peace of mind while you're away. With a little planning and the right approach, you can find someone who treats your space and animals with genuine care and responsibility. This guide will help you understand what to look for and how to make the right choice when selecting a house sitter.
1. Know What You Need
Start by making a detailed list of what you expect from a house sitter. Consider whether you need basic tasks like collecting mail and watering plants, or more involved responsibilities like pet care, pool maintenance, and security checks. Think about your pets’ routines—do they require daily walks, medication, or constant companionship? The clearer you are about your needs, the easier it will be to match with a suitable sitter. Tailoring your search based on specific duties will narrow down the list and lead to a better outcome.
2. Look for Verified Profiles and Reviews
Trust is essential when inviting someone into your home. Make sure to read through house sitter profiles carefully, paying attention to reviews and references from past assignments. A sitter with a history of reliable service and positive feedback is a safer choice. On trusted platforms like Happy House Sitters, you can view detailed profiles, including experience, availability, preferences, and even ID verification—helping homeowners feel more secure about their selection.
3. Prioritise Pet Experience
If you have pets, their wellbeing should be a top priority. Not all house sitters are experienced with animals, so look for someone who specifically mentions pet care in their profile. Ask about the sitter’s comfort with your type of pet (dogs, cats, birds, etc.), and whether they’ve administered medication or managed special needs before. A sitter who loves animals and has practical experience will provide more attentive and compassionate care, which is especially
important for older or anxious pets.
4. Communicate Expectations Clearly
A successful house sit relies on clear communication from the start. Be upfront about house rules, pet routines, visitor policies, and anything that may be relevant to your sitter’s stay. Providing a written guide can be helpful—it should include emergency contacts, vet information, instructions for appliances, and a day-by-day outline of pet care and house duties. The more information your sitter has, the more confident and capable they’ll be while you're away.
5. Ask the Right Questions
Interview potential sitters before making a decision. Ask about their previous house sitting experience, how they would handle an emergency, what their daily routine looks like, and whether they’re comfortable with long stays. You might also ask if they’ve had any issues in past sits, and how they resolved them. These conversations can give you a better understanding of the sitter’s personality, reliability, and problem-solving abilities—all critical qualities in a good house sitter
6. Arrange a Trial or Video Call
If possible, try to meet the sitter in person or schedule a video call before confirming the booking. This gives both parties a chance to ask questions, build rapport, and ensure mutual comfort. A face-to-face interaction can help you gauge the sitter’s communication style and professionalism. It’s also an opportunity for the sitter to see your pets in their environment and get a feel for the home before the sit begins.
Finding the right house sitter doesn’t have to be stressful—it just requires a thoughtful and organised approach. By understanding your needs, verifying credentials, and maintaining open communication, you can confidently choose someone who will care for your home and pets like their own. Platforms like Happy House Sitters make the process easier by connecting homeowners with experienced, reviewed, and reliable sitters. With the right match, you can travel worry-free knowing everything back home is in good hands.