We're going touring for about 4 months and have a couple looking to house sit while we are gone. What both of us would like to know, is, what is a normal rule of thumb regarding duties,? payments,? responsibilities ? etc that we can organize between us. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Arabmac

There are no payments. You continue to pay any bills eg power, water, rates. They stay at or on your property and look after it. They may mow the lawns, water gardens, care for pool and look after animals.
You get the piece of mind knowing your house and pets are being cared for and save on cattery or kennels. They get a change of scenery and get to care for animals and meet new neighbours and explore a different environment.
No cash changes hands. Well this is how it works for us as sitters. Off to next house sit in Townsville next week!

we have been sitting for 5 years now and work the same as buffy61. Only other thing we ask is that they leave their credit card details with their vet.

We don't actually house sit, we block sit, we stay in our rig use water and power if available and caretaker the house and block and any animals etc.

Our main purpose is security and keeping the place spic and span, watered and mowed. Our longest to date was 3 months.

As said no payment takes place.

we have been house sitting for the last four years and agree with buffy61. no cash changes hands and its all good. taking a break for a while - back into it next year

Thanks so much for your input and experience everyone and it appears that you all enjoy. ......This helps both parties in this case and sounds sensible to me. ....... Thanks again arabmac