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House Sitting Insurance Checklist

Make sure both sides are covered before the sit begins

For Sitters

  • Get standalone pet sitting liability insurance (if sitting regularly)
  • Confirm policy covers house sitting, not just drop-in visits
  • Carry renter's insurance (extends liability to temporary residences)
  • Keep personal health insurance current
  • Ask homeowner about their insurance before accepting
  • Check platform-provided guarantees and coverage limits

For Homeowners

  • Call home insurance - disclose you'll have a house sitter
  • Ask about coverage gaps for temporary occupants
  • Ask about liability for injuries the sitter might sustain
  • Ask about exclusions for damage caused by non-residents
  • Check if notification is required for stays over a certain duration
  • Consider an umbrella policy for additional liability coverage
  • Verify the sitter has their own pet care liability insurance

Written Agreement - Include These

  • Dates and duration of the sit
  • Pet care responsibilities (feeding, meds, exercise, vet info)
  • House rules (guests, smoking, use of car)
  • Emergency procedures and vet decision authority
  • Cost threshold for emergency vet care
  • Insurance details for both parties
  • Liability expectations - who covers what
  • Cancellation terms
  • Compensation details (if applicable)

Before and During the Sit

  • Take timestamped photos of the home on arrival
  • Take timestamped photos of the home on departure
  • Note condition of the home and pets on arrival
  • Keep all communication on-platform (verifiable record)
  • Save receipts for any expenses (especially emergency vet)
  • Follow care instructions to the letter
  • Document anything that goes wrong immediately

globalpetsitter.com/guides/articles/insurance