What Happens If a Sit Goes Wrong and How to Report It

If you're considering joining TrustedHousesitters, one common question comes up early: What actually happens if a sit doesn't go as planned — or if someone reports a problem?

This article explains, in simple terms, how issues are raised, what typically triggers a report, and why documentation matters, so you can understand the system before deciding whether to join.

First: what "going wrong" usually means

Most reported sits are not emergencies or extreme situations. They usually involve:

• A mismatch between expectations and reality
• Unclear responsibilities
• Different interpretations of what was agreed

In other words: misalignment, not misconduct. TrustedHousesitters is a matching platform, so its processes are built around what was described, agreed to, and documented.

Can a sit be reported?

Yes. Either party — the sitter or the homeowner — can report a sit. Reports can be made during the sit (if the issue is ongoing) or after the sit ends. Reporting exists to formally document an issue when it can't be resolved directly.

When do people usually report a sit?

• The pet care routine differs from what was described
• The home condition or amenities are not as expected
• There's disagreement about time commitments or boundaries
• A safety, welfare, or access concern appears

Why written documentation matters

TrustedHousesitters relies primarily on written information inside the platform:

• Listing descriptions and House rules
• In-app messages
• Photos or videos provided during the sit

Verbal conversations, assumptions, or unwritten expectations are harder to evaluate later. This is why members are encouraged to ask questions before confirming, keep details in writing, and raise issues early.

Common types of reported situations

1. Expectation mismatches: These usually come down to how specific the listing was. Examples include a pet requiring more time than implied, or additional pets not being mentioned clearly.

2. Responsibility or boundary questions: Common disagreements involve cleaning expectations, how long pets can be left alone, or undisclosed use of cameras. These are evaluated against what was explicitly stated.

3. Safety or welfare concerns: Health issues, unsafe living conditions, or undisclosed surveillance are usually raised as soon as they are noticed.

Typical Scenarios for Prospective Members

• Scenario A: A sitter feels pet care is more demanding than implied. (Evaluation: How was the routine described in writing?)
• Scenario B: A sitter is unhappy with home cleanliness. (Evaluation: How was the home described and when was the concern raised?)
• Scenario C: Disagreement about "alone time" for pets. (Evaluation: Was a specific hour limit confirmed in messages?)
• Scenario D: Undisclosed cameras are found. (Evaluation: Transparency upfront is a recurring requirement.)

How members reduce risk

Although reporting exists, most experienced members focus on prevention by:

• Reading listings carefully for vague terms like "easy" or "low maintenance"
• Asking direct questions about boundaries and routines
• Documenting important details early if something feels off

Prevention Is Better Than Resolution

The best way to avoid issues is to start strong from your very first sit. If you're new to house sitting, read my guide on getting your first sit to understand how to set clear expectations, ask the right questions, and document agreements properly from the beginning. Building good habits early prevents most problems before they start.