House sitting is an arrangement where a homeowner leaves their property in the care of a trusted person while they are away. A standard house sitting agreement is an essential document that outlines the terms and conditions of the house sitting arrangement.
The agreement should cover every aspect of the house sitting arrangement, from the duration of the house sitting period to the responsibilities of the house sitter. Here are some of the essential items that should be included in a standard house sitting agreement.
1. Duration of the house sitting period – The agreement should specify the start and end date of the house sitting period, including the time of day the homeowner departs and returns.
2. Responsibilities of the house sitter – The house sitting agreement should outline the specific duties of the house sitter. Common responsibilities include taking care of pets, maintaining the property, collecting mail, and ensuring the property`s security.
3. Use of equipment and facilities – The agreement should specify what equipment the house sitter can use and what facilities are available to them. This includes appliances, entertainment systems, and access to Wi-Fi.
4. Communication – The agreement should outline the communication expectations between the homeowner and the house sitter. This includes how often the house sitter should provide updates and how the homeowner can reach them in case of emergencies.
5. Compensation – The compensation for the house sitter should also be outlined in the agreement. The agreement should specify whether the house sitter will be paid in cash, accommodation, or other forms of compensation.
6. Emergencies – The agreement should include a plan for handling emergencies such as natural disasters, medical emergencies, and burglaries.
7. Termination of the agreement – The agreement should outline the circumstances that can lead to the termination of the house sitting arrangement. This includes breach of contract, medical emergencies, or other unforeseen circumstances.
In conclusion, a standard house sitting agreement is an essential document that outlines the terms and conditions of a house sitting arrangement. It is important to prepare the agreement well in advance to avoid any misunderstandings or disputes during the house sitting period. By addressing all the relevant issues in the agreement, the homeowner and the house sitter can create a mutually beneficial arrangement.