Can you have guests over while Housesitting?

Jess’s mum in Vienna where she came to visit us at a housesit

Welcome to the first post in our new mini blog series!
These will be short, specific posts answering common questions we get asked all the time in our inbox, on Instagram, or in housesitting forums. After more than three years of full-time sitting around the world, we’ve seen these questions come up again and again, so it feels like the perfect time to put everything in one place.

Today’s topic: “Can you have guests while housesitting?”

It’s one of the most frequently asked (and most quietly whispered) questions in the housesitting world. People are curious, but often too nervous to ask. The thought of bringing someone into a stranger’s home can feel awkward, or even “taboo”. Many sitters worry they’ll look unprofessional or disrespectful if they bring it up.

But here’s the truth: Most homeowners are absolutely fine with guests… if you ask the right way.

And yes, in three years of full-time sitting, from city flats to country villas, long sits and short sits, we’ve never once been told no. Not even for shorter sits.

We’ve had family visit for the day.
We’ve had friends stay overnight.
We’ve hosted BBQs.
We’ve had gatherings by the pool.
We’ve even had our mums fly out to visit us during overseas sits.

Homeowners usually respond well because they want you to feel comfortable in their home. But “usually” doesn’t mean “always,” and it helps to understand why a homeowner might hesitate.

Jess’s niece and nephew in a pool at a housesit we did in the UK

Why Homeowners Might Say No

There are valid reasons a homeowner might not allow guests:

• Space: The home may simply not have room for extra people.

• Pet behaviour: Most owners worry about how their pets will react to someone they didn’t personally introduce. This is the biggest factor.

• Trust and comfort: Even if they trust you, they don’t know the people you want to bring over.

• Security or insurance limitations: Some homeowners have strict rules due to their insurance or personal preference.

A “no” isn’t personal, it’s about their home and their animals, not about you.

How to Ask (Without Putting People Off)

Timing matters more than you might think.

Don’t ask in your application. This can look like the only reason you want the sit.

Don’t ask on the video call. Again, it gives the wrong impression.

Ask once the sit is confirmed and you’ve built a bit of trust, ideally in person when you arrive. It comes across as natural rather than a condition.

Something simple and respectful works best:

“Whilst we’re here, some family/friends might want to visit for a day/evening. Only if you’re comfortable with it, would that be okay?”

Keep it light, not pushy.

Tom and his mum on a day trip in Budapest - she came to stay at our housesit in Vienna.

Top Tips If You Do Have Guests Over

If they say yes, your job is to make sure they never regret it.

• Clean everything to a higher standard than usual (especially in areas used by your guests).

• Only invite responsible people.

• No parties. Absolutely none.

• Make sure guests know: if they break anything, they replace it.

• And keep gatherings small: think meaningful catch-ups, not “free accommodation” extensions.

Having guests while housesitting isn’t rare, rude, or reckless, it’s simply something that requires respect, communication, and good judgement. When handled well, homeowners are usually more than happy for you to share their space with the people you care about.

Stay tuned for Mini Blog #2!

Got your own specific question about house & pet sitting? Our inbox is always open! Message us any time.