House sitting during holidays: preparing it well
An empty house during the summer brings worry into the suitcase: overflowing mail, wilting plants, and the feeling of a home that "sounds hollow." House sitting during the holidays simply meets this need: a trusted presence watches over your home while you are away. And thanks to housing in exchange for services, this presence can be free, in exchange for accommodation. The essential thing remains: choosing the right person and preparing for their departure. Here's how.
Why have your house looked after during the holidays?
An occupied home is a reassuring home. Beyond simple deterrence, an on-site caretaker ensures a real continuity of daily life:
- collecting mail and giving the impression of a lively house;
- watering plants, maintaining the garden;
- feeding and walking the animals that stay at home;
- reacting in case of unforeseen events (leak, breakdown) and notifying if necessary.
Rather than asking neighbors every summer, more and more owners are turning to housing in exchange for services.
House sitting via housing in exchange for services: how does it work
The principle is balanced: you make your home available to a caretaker (the cohabitant) during your absence; in exchange, they provide pre-defined services, without rent. The caretaker stays for free, and you leave with peace of mind. To understand the full process, the step-by-step guide details each stage.
The services remain reasonable and pre-defined — ToitChezMoi recommends not exceeding 15 hours per week. It is about presence and small maintenance tasks, not a full-time job.
Choosing a trusted caretaker: the crucial step
Entrusting your keys is not something to improvise. Take the time to get to know each other well:
- Discuss in advance each other's expectations, lifestyle, and house habits.
- Meet the person and show the house before any commitment: it is the best way to check that you get along and that the rules are clear.
- Never pay money to "reserve" a caretaker or accommodation before this meeting: trust is built through contact, not by advance payment.
Before the big departure, a last look at the security guide will help you approach this new relationship calmly.
Formalize: the written agreement
Successful house sitting relies on clear expectations. Put in writing:
- the expected services (watering, mail, animals, presence) and their frequency;
- the exact dates of absence and caretaker presence;
- the house rules: accessible rooms, guests, use of equipment.
A written agreement protects both parties and avoids misunderstandings upon return.
The checklist before leaving
- Go around the house with the caretaker: meters, water valves, alarm, appliances.
- Leave a contact list: yours, a neighbor's, the doctor/veterinarian, emergency numbers.
- Specify instructions for plants, animals, and mail sorting.
- Indicate where essentials are (circuit breaker, first aid kit) and what is off limits.
- Check that everything is noted in the agreement and that the caretaker has your contact details.
Frequently asked questions
Is registration free?
Yes. Creating an account and posting your need is free. Optional Premium plans offer additional tools and visibility if you wish.
Can I meet the caretaker before committing?
Yes, and it is highly recommended. The meeting and visit allow you to verify that trust is there and to clarify the rules together before your departure.
What services can I request?
Reasonable and pre-defined services: presence, mail collection, watering, animal care, small maintenance. All within a reasonable time limit.
This summer, leave with peace of mind
Well prepared, house sitting turns a source of stress into tranquility: your home is watched over, your caretaker is accommodated, and everyone benefits. A French platform published by CADENIA in Strasbourg since 2017, ToitChezMoi helps you establish these arrangements in a balanced and respectful framework. Offer your accommodation for free and find the caretaker you need before summer.