House Sitter Preparation Checklist
This preparation checklist is for hosts preparing for house sitters and is best read in conjunction with the article Preparing for House Sitters.
Follow this link to view How to Prepare for House Sitters.
You can download a printable PDF of this checklist.
1. Prepare Your Home
☐ Clean and declutter key living areas
☐ Provide fresh bedding and towels
☐ Clear space in cupboards, fridge, and bathroom
☐ Secure valuables and personal documents
☐ Ensure all appliances and systems are in good working order
2. Stock the Essentials
Kitchen
☐ Tea, Coffee, Sugar, Cooking Oil, Salt and Pepper
☐ Milk, Bread, Butter
Cleaning Supplies
☐ Dishwashing Liquid, Dishwasher supplies, Laundry Detergent
☐ Sponges, Surface spray,
☐ Broom, Vacuum, Floor Mop Clearly Visible
☐ Toilet Paper, Spare Bin Liners and Paper Towels in relevant areas
3. Pet Care
☐ Create a detailed pet care guide (usually part of the house manual, cover feeding, walks, any unusual behaviour, meds, vet info)
☐ Stock enough food, treats, and pet supplies
☐ Leave emergency contact details for your vet
☐ Introduce your pet to the sitter (recommended, if possible)
4. Create a House Manual
☐ Include Wi-Fi details and appliance instructions
☐ Provide security information and alarm codes
☐ List garbage/recycling collection details
☐ Add emergency contacts (yourself, vet, neighbour, trades)
☐ Pet Care Instructions
☐ Clearly outline house rules
☐ Share local tips (cafés, clinics, transport, etc.)
5. Outdoor and Garden Care
☐ Tidy the garden and mow the lawn
☐ Provide plant watering instructions
☐ Secure outdoor tools and equipment
☐ Leave pool/spa maintenance notes (if applicable)
6. Insurances
☐ Check your home and contents insurance is suitable for your situation.
☐ If allowing usage of vehicles or marine craft check your insurance is adequate for the situation.
7. Prepare for Their Arrival
☐ Meet and Greet
☐ Organise key handover or lockbox instructions
☐ Make space for sitter’s personal items
☐ Set out clean linen and towels
☐ Stock basic household items (toilet paper, soap, etc.)
☐ Leave a welcome note or gift
8. Communication and Final Touches
☐ Confirm arrival/departure details with your sitter
☐ Share your preferred contact method
☐ Do a home walk through or provide a video guide
☐ Leave a backup contact in case of emergencies
☐ Consider a thank you gift
