1. Pre-trip preparations:
When preparing to leave your home for any length of time, it's important to do a few things in order to ensure that the house sitter is well-prepared for their duties. This includes providing them with an updated list of emergency contact numbers and a detailed rundown of all necessary tasks. It also involves providing any necessary keys, access codes, and gate/garage remotes.
2. Setting up security measures:
To ensure the safety of your home while you are away, it's important to set up motion-sensing lights and other security measures. You should also provide the house sitter with a list of safety protocols in case of an emergency or unexpected visitors.
3. Mail and package redirection:
Make sure that all mail and packages are redirected to an alternate address or designated safe location for pick-up by the house sitter. This will help keep your personal information secure and prevent any potential issues from arising due to delayed deliveries or incorrect addresses.
4. Taking care of plants and pets:
If you have plants and/or pets that need to be taken care of while you are away, provide your house sitter with detailed instructions for their care. Make sure to leave enough food, water, medications, and other supplies for them to take care of the animals or plants without any issues.
5. Checking on appliances:
Ensure that all of your major appliances are working properly before leaving so that there are no unforeseen issues while you're away. Provide the house sitter with a list of contact numbers for repair services should anything malfunction.
6. Handling deliveries:
Instruct the house sitter on how to handle any package deliveries sent to your home. This could include signing for packages, redirecting them to an alternate address, or sending them back unopened if you do not want them.
7. Keeping an eye on the property:
Give your house sitter instructions for monitoring and securing the property while you are away, including days and times when they should check to ensure that everything is still secure.
8. Completing assigned tasks:
Instruct the house sitter on any other tasks that need to be completed during their stay, such as watering plants or taking pets for walks. Provide a list of items that must be done before leaving so that nothing is forgotten.
9. Final check:
Do a final walk-through with the house sitter before you leave to make sure that everything has been taken care of and all security measures have been set up properly. This will help you feel more confident that your home is in good hands while you are away.