House Sitting Is Not A Holiday

House sitting is a fantastic way to experience new locations, enjoy a change of scenery, and, for some, take a break from the routine. However, it’s crucial to remember that house sitting jobs in New Zealand are serious responsibilities. Homeowners entrust their most valuable possessions — their home and often their beloved pet — to a sitter. This role is not merely about having a base to explore from — it requires a commitment to being present, attentive, and responsible.

The Importance Of Being Present

Contrary to popular belief, house sitting is not a vacation and it must not be treated as such. While the allure of day trips and excursions may be tempting, the primary duty (yes, duty) of Kiwi house sitters is to ensure the property and pets are safe, secure, and well cared for.

Being present on the property as much as possible achieves several important goals:

Pet Care

If pets are involved, they require regular feeding, exercise, companionship, and sometimes medication. Animals thrive on routine, and your consistent presence can help reduce stress during their owner’s absence. Dogs, in particular, are social animals that crave human companionship. Prolonged periods of loneliness can lead to anxiety, which may manifest as destructive behaviours, excessive barking, or even physical health issues. Taking dogs to a local park or beach for exercise is an excellent way to meet their needs, provided you return to the property promptly afterward. These outings should complement, not replace, the time you spend keeping them company at home.

Security

An occupied house is a less likely target for burglars. Regular activity on the property, such as lights being turned on and off and cars in the driveway, acts as a deterrent to potential intruders. Even seemingly small acts, like collecting the mail or moving outdoor furniture, can create the impression that the house is actively lived in.

Property Maintenance

Even if there are no pets, being present allows you to monitor the property for issues such as water leaks, electrical problems, or weather damage. Catching these problems early can save homeowners significant trouble and expense. For instance, spotting a leaking pipe in time can prevent costly water damage, and noticing a power outage can allow you to address refrigerator or freezer concerns before food spoils.

Emergency Response

Accidents and emergencies, such as a fire alarm being triggered or a fallen tree blocking access, can happen at any time. Your presence ensures a swift response, reducing potential harm or damage.

The Ideal House Sitter Profile

House sitting is best suited to individuals who are homebodies at heart. If you enjoy pottering around the garden, reading, or working on personal projects from the comfort of a cosy space, you’re likely a great fit. Those who work remotely, work from home, or are retired are especially well-suited to house sitting, as their flexibility allows them to be present most of the time.

If you work away from the property, this must be discussed and agreed upon with the homeowner beforehand. Ideally, such work commitments should be part-time, as prolonged absences can leave pets feeling anxious and the property vulnerable. House sitting requires a mindset of stewardship and attentiveness rather than that of a tourist.

Ideal New Zealand house sitters are also detail-oriented, reliable, and proactive. They take the time to understand the specific needs of the property and pets and are willing to adapt their routine to fulfill these requirements.

Unfortunately, some NZ house sitters tend to treat assignments as an opportunity to travel and sightsee, using the homeowner’s property as a hotel. This approach not only breaches the trust placed in them but can also lead to:

Neglect Of Animals

Pets left alone for extended periods may feel anxious or neglected. As I mentioned above, dogs are highly social and they depend on consistent interaction for their emotional well-being. Prolonged absences can lead to separation anxiety, which not only stresses the animal but can also result in damage to the home or complaints from neighbours due to barking or whining.

Increased Risk Of Break-Ins

An empty house during the day (or night) is a target for burglars. Regular absences can make the property appear unoccupied, increasing the risk of theft, regardless of whether or not the house has an alarm system.

Unaddressed Emergencies

Situations such as a burst pipe or electrical fire can escalate if no one is present to respond promptly. Delayed action can lead to significant damage and higher repair costs.

How To Be A Responsible House Sitter

Communicate

Maintain regular updates with the homeowner to reassure them that everything is going well. Share details about their pets and the property to demonstrate your attentiveness. Sending photos or brief messages can provide additional peace of mind.

Limit Absences

Plan outings sparingly and keep them brief. Your primary duty is to the house and its furry (and feathered) occupants. If you must leave for an extended period, ensure the pets are fed, exercised, and secure beforehand. If you’re looking after dogs on a small property with limited space then taking them for exercise at a nearby park or beach is not only acceptable but encouraged, as long as their safety and well-being are prioritised. If you need to work away from the property, ensure this is cleared with the homeowner and keep such commitments part-time whenever possible.

Stay Observant

Conduct daily checks on the property to ensure everything is functioning as it should. Look out for signs of wear or potential hazards. For example, check for unusual smells that could indicate a gas leak or inspect outdoor areas for damage after a storm.

Respect Instructions

Follow the homeowner’s guidelines meticulously, whether it’s about pet care, garden maintenance, or security protocols. If the homeowner has specific rules, such as keeping certain doors locked or watering plants on a schedule, adhere to these requests without exception.

Prepare For Emergencies

Know the location of key utilities such as the water shut-off valve and switchboard. Have contact information for local services, such as veterinarians and maintenance professionals, readily available.

Final Words

House sitting is a valuable service that comes with significant responsibilities. House sitters in NZ are depended upon by homeowners to provide peace of mind by keeping their homes and pets safe. If you’re considering house sitting, ask yourself if you’re prepared to prioritise these responsibilities over personal plans.

By approaching house sitting with dedication and respect, you can ensure a positive experience for both yourself and the homeowner, building trust and paving the way for future opportunities. Remember, a successful house sit is not just about fulfilling duties; it’s about honouring the trust placed in you and leaving a lasting positive impression.