While the homeowner is away everything continues as usual regarding the property. Bills need to be paid to keep services connected, plants need watering, gardens, lawns and trees need to be maintained, mail and phone messages may need to be forwarded. While the relationship between homeowner and house sitter is mutually beneficial and based on trust, the house sitter is, in effect, working for the homeowner. The house sitter agrees to occupy the homeowner's property for a given period of time. Generally the house sitter is required to be in the property most evenings and nights (although this may be negotiable), giving the property its usual occupied appearance to deter burglars, squatters and vandals.
A Virginia House Sitting Agreement is a legally binding contract between a homeowner and a house sitter that outlines the terms and conditions of the house sitting arrangement in the state of Virginia. This agreement ensures that both parties are aware of their rights, responsibilities, and expectations during the house sitting period. The main purpose of a Virginia House Sitting Agreement is to safeguard the interests of both the homeowner and the house sitter, ensuring a smooth and mutually beneficial arrangement. It serves as a comprehensive written document that details the specific services to be provided, responsibilities, property maintenance, compensation, and any other relevant matters. There might be different types or variations of a Virginia House Sitting Agreement based on the specific requirements of the homeowner and the house sitter. These variations could include: 1. Standard House Sitting Agreement: This is the most common type of agreement used for general house sitting arrangements in Virginia. It covers essential aspects such as house security, pet care, mail collection, and basic household maintenance. 2. Long-term House Sitting Agreement: This type of agreement caters to extended house sitting arrangements, typically lasting for several months or more. It may include additional clauses addressing tasks like garden care, bill payments, regular home inspections, and dealing with emergencies or repairs. 3. Pet-sitting House Sitting Agreement: If the primary purpose of the house sitting arrangement is to take care of the homeowner's pets, this specific agreement can be used. It includes detailed instructions for pet feeding, exercise, grooming, veterinary care, and any other specific requirements. 4. Vacation House Sitting Agreement: Homeowners who go on vacation and require someone to house sit during their absence can use this agreement. It outlines responsibilities related to property security, monitoring security systems, collecting mail, and ensuring the property is well-maintained. 5. House Sitting Agreement with Compensation: In some cases, homeowners offer compensation to house sitters for their services. This type of agreement includes details about the payment structure, amount, and mode of payment. It is important for both the homeowner and the house sitter to carefully review and understand the terms of the Virginia House Sitting Agreement before signing. Seeking legal advice or using a template specifically tailored for Virginia can help ensure that all necessary clauses are included and both parties are protected.
