25 House Sitter Interview Questions and Answers

House sitting is a great way to see the world and make a little money while you’re at it. But before you can start house sitting, you need to go through the interview process.

In this article, we will provide you with some tips on how to answer common house sitting interview questions. We will also provide you with a list of questions that you may be asked during your interview.

By preparing for your interview, you will increase your chances of getting the job and starting your journey as a house sitter.

1. Are you comfortable taking care of pets?

House sitters may be asked to take care of pets while the owners are away. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience with animals and can handle any issues that might arise. In your answer, share a story about how you’ve cared for an animal in the past. Explain what steps you took to ensure their safety and happiness.

Example: “Absolutely! I have experience taking care of a variety of pets, including cats, dogs, birds, and fish. I understand that each pet has its own unique needs, so I’m comfortable providing the appropriate level of care for each one. I also make sure to follow all instructions given by the owners regarding their pet’s diet, exercise, and medical needs. Finally, I always strive to create a safe and nurturing environment for any pet in my care.”

2. What are some of the most important things you do to maintain the security of a home while the owners are away?

House sitters are responsible for the security of a home while owners are away. This question helps an employer understand your approach to maintaining a home’s security and safety during their absence. In your answer, explain how you plan to protect the house from intruders or other threats.

Example: “Maintaining the security of a home while the owners are away is one of my top priorities as a house sitter. To ensure that the home is secure, I make sure to always lock all doors and windows before leaving the premises. I also set up an alarm system if the homeowners have one installed. Furthermore, I check for any signs of forced entry or suspicious activity around the property during my daily visits. Finally, I keep an eye out for any potential hazards such as broken locks, faulty wiring, or other safety issues. By taking these steps, I can guarantee that the home will remain safe and secure while the owners are away.”

3. How would you handle a situation where you noticed a leak in the plumbing system?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you would react to a potentially dangerous situation. Your answer should show that you are willing to take action and solve problems on your own, rather than waiting for someone else to do it.

Example: “If I noticed a leak in the plumbing system, my first priority would be to assess the situation and determine if it is something that needs immediate attention. If so, I would contact the homeowner or their designated emergency contact as soon as possible to inform them of the issue. I understand the importance of being proactive when it comes to home maintenance and repairs, so I would also take steps to minimize any potential damage while waiting for help to arrive. This could include turning off the water supply, placing buckets under the leak, and/or using towels to absorb excess moisture. Finally, I would document the incident with photos and notes to provide to the homeowner upon their return.”

4. What is your process for maintaining the security of a home while the owners are away?

House sitters are responsible for ensuring the safety of a home while owners are away. This question allows you to demonstrate your ability to keep a house safe and secure. In your answer, explain how you would protect the property from intruders or damage.

Example: “My process for maintaining the security of a home while the owners are away begins with ensuring that all doors and windows are locked. I also check to make sure that any alarm systems or cameras are activated and functioning properly. In addition, I will inspect the property regularly for signs of forced entry or suspicious activity. Finally, I am diligent about keeping an eye on the neighborhood and reporting any strange occurrences to the homeowners.

I understand how important it is to keep a home safe and secure while its owners are away. That’s why I take extra precautions such as making sure all lights are off at night and checking in periodically with neighbors. My goal is to provide peace of mind to the homeowners so they can enjoy their time away without worrying about the safety of their home.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you went above and beyond to take care of a home and its inhabitants while the owners were away.

This question is a great way to show the interviewer that you are willing to go above and beyond for your clients. It also shows them how much you value their home and belongings while they’re away. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think of a specific example from your previous experience as a house sitter.

Example: “I recently had the opportunity to house sit for a family while they were away on vacation. I was tasked with taking care of their home and two cats. During my stay, I went above and beyond what was expected of me.

I made sure that all areas of the home were kept clean and tidy, including vacuuming carpets, washing dishes, and doing laundry. I also took extra steps to ensure the safety of the home by checking locks and windows each day.

The cats required special attention, so I made sure to provide them with plenty of food, water, and playtime. I even created a schedule for myself to make sure that I spent time playing with them every day. This helped keep them entertained and in good spirits while their owners were away.”

6. If you noticed that a window was left open while you were house sitting, how would you react?

This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your ability to react quickly and appropriately in emergency situations. In your answer, demonstrate that you are able to make quick decisions while remaining calm and collected.

Example: “If I noticed that a window was left open while house sitting, my first priority would be to ensure the safety of the home and its occupants. I would take immediate action to close the window securely and check for any signs of intrusion or damage. If necessary, I would contact the homeowner right away to inform them of the situation.

I understand the importance of security when it comes to house sitting and am committed to taking all necessary precautions to protect the property. I’m also very detail-oriented and always make sure to double-check windows and doors before leaving the premises. Finally, I’m reliable and trustworthy, so you can rest assured that your home will remain safe in my care.”

7. What would you do if you noticed that food in the fridge had gone bad while you were house sitting?

This question is a good way to test your problem-solving skills and ability to follow instructions. It also shows the employer that you are responsible enough to take action when something goes wrong while house sitting. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to solve this issue and how you would communicate with the homeowner about it.

Example: “If I noticed that food in the fridge had gone bad while house sitting, my first step would be to assess the situation. I would check the expiration dates on all of the items and determine which ones need to be thrown away. After disposing of any spoiled food, I would make sure to clean out the refrigerator thoroughly with a disinfectant cleaner.

Next, I would restock the refrigerator with fresh groceries or other food items as directed by the homeowner. Finally, I would take note of what was thrown away and inform the homeowner so they can replace it when they return home. My goal is always to leave the home in better condition than when I arrived, and this includes taking care of any food-related issues.”

8. How well do you interact with strangers?

House sitters often have to interact with strangers, such as the homeowners and their neighbors. Employers ask this question to make sure you can do so in a professional manner. In your answer, explain that you are comfortable interacting with people you don’t know. Explain that you will treat everyone respectfully and professionally.

Example: “Interacting with strangers is something I’m very comfortable with. I have a friendly and outgoing personality, so it’s easy for me to start conversations and make people feel at ease. I also enjoy learning about different cultures and backgrounds, which helps me to connect with people from all walks of life.

I understand that house sitting requires trust between the homeowner and myself, so it’s important to be able to build relationships quickly and effectively. I take my time to get to know the homeowners and their needs, as well as any other people who may be living in or visiting the home. This allows me to provide the best service possible while making sure everyone feels safe and secure.”

9. Do you have experience cleaning houses?

This question is a great way for the employer to learn more about your housekeeping skills. If you have experience cleaning houses, describe what types of homes you cleaned and how often you did it. If you don’t have any experience, explain that you are willing to learn new techniques and methods for keeping a home clean.

Example: “Yes, I do have experience cleaning houses. I have been a house sitter for the past five years and during that time I have had to clean many different homes. I am very familiar with the basics of cleaning such as dusting, vacuuming, mopping, and sanitizing surfaces. I also understand the importance of taking extra care when it comes to delicate items like antiques or fragile furniture. In addition, I am comfortable using various types of cleaning products and equipment. Finally, I always strive to leave a home looking spotless so that my clients can come back to a clean and inviting environment.”

10. When is it appropriate to call the homeowners to let them know about a situation that’s happening at their home?

This question is a good way to determine how much independence you have as a house sitter. It also shows the interviewer that you are responsible and can make decisions on your own. In your answer, explain what factors would lead you to call the homeowners and when you would handle the situation yourself.

Example: “I believe it is always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to calling homeowners. If there is a situation that could potentially be dangerous or cause damage, then I would call immediately. This includes things like fires, floods, and other emergencies. In addition, if something out of the ordinary occurs, such as an unexpected visitor or a broken window, I would also contact the homeowner right away. Finally, if I am ever unsure about whether or not to call, I would reach out to the homeowner just to be safe.”

11. We want to know that you’re enjoying your time house sitting for us. How would you let us know if something was wrong?

This question is a great way to see how much initiative you have. It’s important that house sitters are proactive and alert their clients if something isn’t right in the home. This shows your commitment to doing a good job, as well as your ability to communicate effectively.

Example: “I understand that it is important to communicate any issues or concerns while house sitting. If something were wrong, I would contact you immediately and provide a detailed explanation of the issue. I would also suggest potential solutions so that we could work together to find an appropriate resolution.

In addition, I believe in being proactive when it comes to house sitting. I would take preventative measures to ensure that problems don’t arise in the first place. This includes regularly checking on the property and making sure everything is in order. By doing this, I can catch any small issues before they become bigger ones.”

12. Describe your experience with pets.

House sitters often care for pets while their owners are away. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience caring for animals and can handle any potential issues that may arise. In your answer, share a story about how you handled an issue with a pet or the steps you took to ensure the safety of a pet in your care.

Example: “I have extensive experience with pets, both in my own home and while house sitting. I grew up with cats and dogs, so I’m very comfortable around animals of all sizes. In addition to caring for my own pets, I’ve also taken care of other people’s animals while housesitting. This has included providing food and water, walking them, playing with them, and cleaning up after them. I’m familiar with administering medications as well, if needed.”

13. What makes you the best candidate for this house sitting position?

This question is your opportunity to show the interviewer why you are the best candidate for this position. You can highlight your relevant experience, skills and qualifications that make you a good fit for this role.

Example: “I believe I am the best candidate for this house sitting position because of my extensive experience in the field. For the past five years, I have been a professional house sitter for various clients and have developed an eye for detail when it comes to taking care of their homes.

I understand that being a house sitter is more than just watching over a home; it’s about providing peace of mind to the homeowner while they are away. My goal is to always ensure that the property remains safe and secure during my stay. I take pride in making sure all doors and windows are locked, lights are turned off, and any other security measures are taken.

In addition, I am very organized and reliable. I always make sure to follow instructions precisely and can be trusted to carry out tasks as requested. I also have excellent communication skills which allows me to keep homeowners informed of any issues or concerns that may arise during my stay.”

14. Which house sitting websites do you use to find jobs?

This question can help the interviewer determine your level of experience in house sitting. If you have previous experience, name the websites where you found work and describe how they helped you find jobs. If you are new to house sitting, mention which websites you plan on using to look for work.

Example: “I have used a variety of house sitting websites to find jobs. I am most familiar with House Sitters America and Trusted Housesitters, as they are the two largest sites in the industry. Both offer a wide range of opportunities for experienced house sitters like myself.

When looking for new house sitting positions, I also use smaller niche websites such as Mind My House and Nomador. These sites often feature more specialized job postings that may not be available on the larger platforms.”

15. What do you think is the most important aspect of being a house sitter?

This question is a great way to see how much you know about the role of house sitter. It also allows you to show your knowledge and experience in this field. When answering, it can be helpful to mention an important aspect that you have done yourself or one that you would like to do if hired.

Example: “The most important aspect of being a house sitter is trustworthiness. As a house sitter, I understand that homeowners are entrusting me with their home and possessions while they’re away. It’s my responsibility to ensure the safety and security of their property by taking all necessary precautions.

I also believe in providing excellent customer service. This means following instructions carefully, communicating regularly with the homeowner, and responding quickly to any issues that may arise. Finally, I strive to be organized and detail-oriented when it comes to tasks like collecting mail, watering plants, or caring for pets. These small details can make a big difference in how satisfied the homeowner is with my services.”

16. How often are you able to house sit?

House sitting is a flexible job, and employers want to know that you can work around their schedule. If they have a specific time frame in mind for when they need someone to house sit, explain your availability.

Example: “I am able to house sit as often as needed. I have a flexible schedule and can work around my other commitments. I understand the importance of providing reliable service, so I will always make sure that I’m available when you need me.

I also take pride in being detail-oriented and organized. I know how important it is to keep your home safe and secure while you are away. I will pay close attention to all details such as making sure doors and windows are locked, checking for any signs of damage or tampering, and keeping an eye out for suspicious activity.

Furthermore, I am comfortable with taking care of pets and plants if necessary. I have experience caring for both cats and dogs, and I enjoy spending time with animals. I also have knowledge of basic plant care, so I can ensure that your plants stay healthy while you’re away.”

17. There is a list of things you need to do before the homeowners leave. How would you prioritize these tasks?

This question is a great way to see how well you can organize and prioritize tasks. It also shows the interviewer that you understand what needs to be done before the homeowners leave. Use your answer to show the employer that you are organized, detail-oriented and able to complete tasks efficiently.

Example: “When it comes to prioritizing tasks as a house sitter, I believe the most important thing is safety. Before the homeowners leave, I would make sure that all doors and windows are locked, any security systems are activated, and any valuables are secured. After ensuring the home is secure, I would then focus on making sure the home is clean and tidy for when the homeowners return. This includes vacuuming, dusting, taking out the trash, and doing dishes. Finally, I would check in with the homeowner to ensure they have everything they need before leaving.”

18. How do you handle a situation where the homeowner has left instructions that are confusing or incomplete?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle challenges and whether you have any experience with house sitting. Use your answer to highlight your problem-solving skills, ability to communicate clearly and willingness to follow instructions carefully.

Example: “When a homeowner leaves instructions that are confusing or incomplete, I take the initiative to ask questions and clarify any details. I believe communication is key in these situations so I make sure to be proactive in reaching out to the homeowner for clarification. I also try to use my experience and knowledge of house sitting to fill in any gaps in the instructions. If necessary, I can even suggest solutions to any problems that may arise due to the lack of information. Finally, if all else fails, I will contact the homeowner again to ensure that I am following their instructions correctly.”

19. Do you have any experience with gardening and lawn care?

House sitters may be responsible for maintaining the property’s lawn and garden. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience with these tasks. If you do, share your previous experiences. If you don’t, let them know that you’re willing to learn.

Example: “Yes, I have experience with gardening and lawn care. I worked as a gardener for two years at my previous job, where I was responsible for maintaining the grounds of a large estate. During this time, I developed an understanding of how to properly care for plants and flowers, as well as how to keep the lawn looking neat and tidy. I also gained knowledge on how to use various tools such as mowers, edgers, and trimmers in order to achieve the desired results. In addition to my professional experience, I have done some gardening and lawn care around my own home, which has given me further insight into the process.”

20. Describe your approach to managing keys, codes, and other access information for a home while house sitting.

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your attention to detail and organizational skills. Your answer should include a specific example of how you organized access information for the home you were house sitting in the past, as well as how you kept track of it.

Example: “When it comes to managing keys, codes, and other access information for a home while house sitting, I take a very organized approach. First of all, I always make sure that the homeowner has provided me with all necessary access information before beginning my assignment. This includes any keycodes, alarm systems, or garage door openers. Once I have this information, I store it in an encrypted document on my laptop so that it is secure and easily accessible if needed.

I also keep a physical copy of the access information in a safe place at the residence. This way, if there are any issues with technology, I can still gain access to the property. Finally, when I am finished with my assignment, I always return the keys and access information to the homeowner in person or via mail depending on their preference. By taking these steps, I ensure that the homeowner’s property remains secure throughout my house sitting assignment.”

21. What would you do if you encountered an emergency while house sitting?

House sitters may encounter emergencies while they’re on the job. Employers ask this question to make sure you know what to do in these situations and how to handle them safely. In your answer, explain that you would call emergency services if necessary. Explain that you would also contact the homeowner or client as soon as possible to let them know about the situation.

Example: “If I encountered an emergency while house sitting, my first priority would be to ensure the safety of everyone involved. I would assess the situation and take appropriate action such as calling 911 or contacting the homeowner if they are available. After that, I would follow any instructions given by the authorities or the homeowner.

I am also experienced in basic first aid, so if necessary I could provide assistance until medical help arrives. In addition, I have a good understanding of home security systems, so I can quickly identify potential threats and take steps to protect the property. Finally, I am familiar with the local area and know how to contact nearby neighbors for help if needed.”

22. We want to make sure our belongings are safe when we leave them in your care. How will you ensure this?

House sitters are responsible for the safety of their client’s belongings while they’re away. This question helps employers understand how you’ll protect their property and ensure it doesn’t get damaged or stolen during your time as a house sitter. In your answer, explain what steps you take to keep your clients’ homes safe and secure.

Example: “I understand the importance of keeping your belongings safe and secure when you are away. As a house sitter, I take my responsibility to protect your home and possessions very seriously.

My approach to ensuring that your belongings remain safe is two-fold. First, I will make sure all doors and windows are locked and secured before leaving the premises. Second, I will regularly check for any signs of forced entry or suspicious activity while on site. If I notice anything out of the ordinary, I will immediately contact you and/or the appropriate authorities.

Additionally, I am always available to answer questions or provide updates if needed. I have extensive experience in house sitting and can guarantee that your property will be well taken care of while you are away.”

23. Are you comfortable performing basic maintenance tasks around a home (e.g. changing light bulbs, unclogging drains)?

House sitters often need to perform basic maintenance tasks around a home, such as changing light bulbs and unclogging drains. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the skills necessary to complete these types of tasks. In your answer, let the employer know that you are comfortable performing these types of tasks. Explain which specific maintenance tasks you can do.

Example: “Yes, I am comfortable performing basic maintenance tasks around a home. I have experience changing light bulbs and unclogging drains in the homes of previous clients. In addition to being able to perform these tasks, I also take pride in my attention to detail when it comes to ensuring that all areas of the home are kept clean and tidy. I understand how important it is for homeowners to feel secure knowing their home is well taken care of while they are away, so I always make sure to go above and beyond with my house sitting duties.”

24. Describe how you keep track of all the tasks you need to complete while house sitting.

This question can help the interviewer understand how you manage your time and responsibilities. Use examples from past house sitting jobs to explain how you stay organized and on schedule.

Example: “I understand the importance of staying organized while house sitting. To ensure that I complete all tasks, I create a detailed checklist for each job. This list includes all the duties I need to do and any special instructions from the homeowner. I also take notes during my initial walkthrough with the homeowner so I can refer back to them if needed.

To stay on top of everything, I use an app on my phone called “House Sitter” which helps me keep track of all the tasks I need to complete. It allows me to set reminders for myself so I don’t miss anything important. I also make sure to check in regularly with the homeowner to let them know how things are going and if there’s anything else they need me to do. Finally, I always leave a written report at the end of each assignment detailing what I accomplished while house sitting.”

25. How do you ensure that the homeowners’ expectations are met while they are away?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you are detail-oriented and can meet their expectations. Use examples from your previous experience where you met a client’s expectations, such as keeping the house clean or ensuring that all pets were fed and cared for while they were away.

Example: “I understand the importance of meeting homeowners’ expectations while they are away. To ensure this, I always take detailed notes during my initial walkthrough with the homeowner and ask questions to clarify any instructions or preferences. This helps me to be aware of all their needs and expectations before they leave.

Once the homeowner leaves, I stay in constant communication with them via text or email so that they know their home is being taken care of properly. I also make sure to follow through on any tasks they have asked me to complete, such as watering plants, taking out the trash, or checking the mail. Finally, I always keep an eye out for anything unusual or suspicious around the house and report it immediately to the homeowner.”