Create a dedicated list of important contact information. Include several means of contact, including landline phones, cell phones and email addresses. Leave contact information for the next-door neighbor and a friend or family member in case of an emergency. Display the list in a prominent location, such as the refrigerator. Include phone numbers for the cable, phone, water, gas and electric companies.
List detailed care instructions for pets and plants. Include feeding and exercise instructions if the house-sitter is responsible for daily pet care. If a dedicated pet-sitter will care for a pet while you are away, provide details for the house-sitter about when the pet-sitter will care for the pet. If the house-sitter is responsible for paying a pet-sitter's fee, leave money and contract details for the house-sitter.
Leaving garbage and trash in the disposal can for a week or more may lead to rodent or insect infestation. Clearly note times and dates when trash cans and recycling bins need to be taken to the curb for pickup. Give instructions for cleaning out garbage cans and recycling bins if the house-sitter is responsible for these tasks. Attach a list of recyclable containers on the outside of the recycling bins if the house-sitter stays in the home during your time away.
Long-term house-sitters have more responsibility. Hang a complete list of daily, weekly and monthly household chores that must be completed. Leave an envelope with money for food and other expenses while you are away. If the house-sitter is responsible for mail pickup, leave instructions detailing where mail should be kept until you return. Hang note cards on electronic devices, heating and cooling units, gas, water and household appliances with detailed instructions on proper use. Make a master list of all instructions in addition to hanging individual instruction sheets.
