House sitter handover checklist
Leave home access and care instructions for someone staying while you are away.
What to get
House keys
Alarm instructions
Emergency contacts
Wi-Fi details
Plant watering instructions
Mail arrangements
Bin collection days
Appliance notes
Agreed visitor rules
Return date
Pet care instructions if applicable
Who this list is for
This house sitter handover checklist is for homeowners preparing to leave their property in someone else’s care. It’s ideal if you’re traveling and want to ensure your house sitter has everything needed for smooth daily routines, security, and handling any issues.
How to use this list
Work through each item as you prepare your home for the sitter. Start by handing over house keys and walking through alarm instructions on-site. Leave written Wi-Fi details somewhere visible. Review emergency contacts and go over plant watering instructions—point out any tricky plants. Set up mail arrangements and explain bin collection days. Walk through appliance notes, and clarify any agreed visitor rules. Confirm your return date and, if relevant, provide pet care instructions with supplies in one spot.
Common mistakes
Don’t assume your sitter knows your routines. People often forget to leave clear alarm instructions or skip demonstrating tricky appliances. It’s easy to overlook plant watering needs or miss updating bin collection days if schedules change. Avoid vague pet care instructions—if you have pets, be specific. Don’t forget to note any visitors who may stop by.
What is on this list
This list covers house keys, alarm instructions, emergency contacts, Wi-Fi details, plant watering instructions, mail arrangements, bin collection days, appliance notes, agreed visitor rules, your return date, and pet care instructions if needed. Go down the list and cross off what you’ve already set up or what doesn’t apply, so nothing is missed.
Before you go
Before leaving, double-check that all instructions are clear and accessible. Walk through the house with your sitter if possible. Make sure keys and codes work, and that your sitter knows how to reach you or emergency contacts. Leave a copy of this checklist for your sitter to reference during their stay.
FAQ
Who is "House sitter handover checklist" for?
This house sitter handover checklist is for homeowners preparing to leave their property in someone else’s care. It’s ideal if you’re traveling and want to ensure your house sitter has everything needed for smooth daily routines, security, and handling any issues.
How should I use "House sitter handover checklist"?
Work through each item as you prepare your home for the sitter. Start by handing over house keys and walking through alarm instructions on-site. Leave written Wi-Fi details somewhere visible. Review emergency contacts and go over plant watering instructions—point out any tricky plants. Set up mail arrangements and explain bin collection days. Walk through a…
What should I skip or avoid with "House sitter handover checklist"?
Don’t assume your sitter knows your routines. People often forget to leave clear alarm instructions or skip demonstrating tricky appliances. It’s easy to overlook plant watering needs or miss updating bin collection days if schedules change. Avoid vague pet care instructions—if you have pets, be specific. Don’t forget to note any visitors who may stop by.
What is on the "House sitter handover checklist" list?
This list covers house keys, alarm instructions, emergency contacts, Wi-Fi details, plant watering instructions, mail arrangements, bin collection days, appliance notes, agreed visitor rules, your return date, and pet care instructions if needed. Go down the list and cross off what you’ve already set up or what doesn’t apply, so nothing is missed.
What should I do before I go?
Before leaving, double-check that all instructions are clear and accessible. Walk through the house with your sitter if possible. Make sure keys and codes work, and that your sitter knows how to reach you or emergency contacts. Leave a copy of this checklist for your sitter to reference during their stay.
Related lists
For general planning only. Valedo does not guarantee this list’s accuracy, completeness, or suitability. Verify information before relying on it. Not a substitute for professional advice or safety training.