House Sitting Agreement
What is this form?
The House Sitting Agreement is a legal document that outlines the responsibilities and rights of a homeowner and a house sitter. This form ensures that the homeowner's property is cared for during their absence while establishing a framework for trust and accountability. Unlike other agreements, this form focuses specifically on house sitting arrangements, including property maintenance and emergency protocols, making it a vital tool for homeowners seeking to keep their property secure while they are away.
Form components explained
- Date of agreement.
- Names and addresses of both homeowner and house sitter.
- Permission granted for the sitter to access the property and perform duties.
- Specific tasks to be carried out by the sitter.
- Duration of the agreement and payment details.
- Emergency procedures and contact information.
When this form is needed
This House Sitting Agreement is essential when a homeowner plans to be away for an extended period and requires someone to look after their property. It is particularly useful for vacations, business trips, or remote work arrangements. By using this form, both parties can clearly define expectations, manage responsibilities, and protect against potential disputes.
Who should use this form
This agreement is suitable for:
- Homeowners who need to ensure their property is maintained while they are away.
- House sitters who want to formalize their arrangement with homeowners.
- Individuals seeking to protect their interests and establish clear guidelines for property care.
Instructions for completing this form
- Identify the parties involved by entering the names and addresses of both the homeowner and the house sitter.
- Specify the dates for which the house sitting will occur.
- Outline the specific duties to be performed by the sitter.
- Detail payment terms, including the amount and payment schedule.
- Provide emergency contact information for both parties.
- Ensure both parties sign and date the agreement to make it legally binding.
Notarization guidance
Notarization is not commonly needed for this form. However, certain documents or local rules may make it necessary. Our notarization service, powered by Notarize, allows you to finalize it securely online anytime, day or night.
Common mistakes
- Failing to specify all essential duties may lead to misunderstandings.
- Not including emergency contacts can cause delays in urgent situations.
- Omitting dates could complicate the arrangement and billing.
Benefits of using this form online
- Convenient access to a professionally drafted agreement at any time.
- Easily editable format to customize the agreement to your specific needs.
- Secure storage and retrieval of your legal documents.
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FAQ
The House Sitter's responsibilities include collecting and organizing homeowners' mail, periodically turning house lights on and off, as well as monitoring surveillance footage to take note of and report any suspicious activity occurring around or outside of homeowners' houses.
Housesitting cost varies widely. Some house sitters will work for free in exchange for food and rent while others will charge $80 per day! Most house sitters charge $25 - $45 per day. Depending on your area and other factors this number might fluctuate.
24 hour house sitting, no pets: R 400 per calendar day. 24 hour house sitting, with 1 pet: R 450 per calendar day. 24 hour house sitting, add R 100 per extra pet above 1 pet per day.
Pay for long-term house sitters starts at £10 a day with Housesitters, plus A£7 food allowance and 40p per mile for fuel both of which are non-taxable. Small additional amounts are available if you care for a dog or cat while house sitting.
Provide Clear Directions. Make Sure The House Is Comfortable. Add Some Personal Touches. Be Ready For Their Arrival. Use The Welcome Guide. Introduce Your Sitter To Your Pets. Run Through Routines.
If you decide to pay your friends to pet sit, a fair rate of pay is 30-40% of what you would pay a professional service. For example, a quick 15-minute drop-in visit would equal about $6 $10 per visit. If your pets need longer visits, such as 45-60 minute visits, you should pay somewhere around $9 -$12 per visit.
As a starting point to keep in mind, typical house sitting rates are in the $25-30/day range, more (around $50) for overnight stays. But this is just a ballpark. We suggest taking the time to calculate a number based on your own house sitting expectations and needs.
You would report income that was paid for house sitting as self-employment income.
The following items are deemed nontaxable by the IRS: Inheritances, gifts and bequests. Cash rebates on items you purchase from a retailer, manufacturer or dealer. Alimony payments (for divorce decrees finalized after 2018)