How House Sitter Background Checks Can Boost Your Success!
If you’re looking for tips on getting house sitter background checks, or are wondering if you even need one, you’ve come to the right place!
As experienced house sitters since 2008, we at House Sitting Overseas understand the critical role that trust plays in this unique arrangement.
One of the most effective ways to establish this trust is through a house sitter background check.
In this article, we’ll dive into what these checks are, why they’re crucial for house sitters, and how you can obtain one to enhance your house sitting prospects.
What is a House Sitter Background Check?
Also known as a criminal check or police check, a house sitter background check is a verification process that screens an individual’s personal history, typically including criminal records, identity verification, and sometimes employment history.
For house sitters, this check serves as a powerful tool to demonstrate trustworthiness and reliability to potential homeowners.
At House Sitting Overseas, we’ve been in the house sitting game a long time, and we always have a current background check ready to provide to homeowners and pet owners upon request.
We’ve seen firsthand how this simple step can open doors and create opportunities in the house sitting world.
Get Your FREE House Sitting Checklist Now!
With 16+ years of house sitting experience, we know what’s necessary to make a house sit successful. Now you will, too!
Why House Sitters Need Background Checks
A house sitter background check isn’t just a good idea, it’s vital to securing more house sitting gigs. In some countries, like Australia, they’re practically required. Let’s discuss more about why house sitter background checks matter.
1. Trust and Reassurance
The foundation of any successful house sitting arrangement is trust. When you provide a background check, you’re offering homeowners peace of mind.
They’re entrusting you with their home, their possessions, and often their beloved pets. A background check reassures them that you’re a responsible and trustworthy individual.
2. Increased Chances of Being Chosen
In the competitive world of house sitting, anything that sets you apart from other sitters can be a game-changer. A verified background check can significantly increase your chances of being selected for house sits.
Many homeowners prioritize sitters who can provide this extra level of assurance, making you a more attractive candidate.
3. Safety for Pets and Homes
Background checks contribute to the overall safety of the house sitting experience. They help ensure that the individuals caring for homes and pets have been vetted, reducing risks for all parties involved.
This creates a safer environment for the pets you’ll be caring for and the homes you’ll be staying in.
How to Obtain a Background Check
There are several ways to obtain a background check as a house sitter. Let’s explore some options:
✔️ Membership Sites
TrustedHousesitters, a popular house sitting platform, offers free background checks for US-based sitter members. Here’s how it works:
- Sitters can apply for a background check via the verifications page on the platform.
- The check is submitted through Evident, a secure third-party provider.
- The process typically takes up to 7 days to complete.
This service is an excellent option for sitters who are already members of TrustedHousesitters or are considering joining.
-> If you want 25% off your first-year membership, then click here for our Trusted House Sitters discount code!
✔️ Other Platforms
While TrustedHousesitters is a well-known example, other house sitting platforms may also offer background check services. It’s worth exploring the features of any platform you’re considering joining to see if they provide this option.
✔️ Self-Entry Programs from Reputable Providers
If you’re not using a platform that offers background checks or you want more control over the process, you can use self-entry programs from reputable background check providers. Here are some options:
Checkr: Checkr is an employment screening platform ideal for gig economy workers and freelancers. It offers comprehensive checks including criminal history, employment verification, and driving records.
GoodHire: GoodHire provides FCRA-compliant background checks and offers customizable checks suitable for various industries.
IntelliCorp: IntelliCorp specializes in criminal background checks and employment verifications. It’s great for volunteer organizations, which could be relevant for some house sitting scenarios.
Accio Data: Accio Data is a self-service screening solution focusing on accuracy and efficiency. It’s suitable for individuals who want control over their own house sitting background checks.
SterlingOne: SterlingOne offers deep pre-employment background screening, and provides comprehensive checks including criminal records and education verification.
When choosing a provider, consider your specific needs and any industry requirements that might apply to house sitting in your area.
Confidentiality and Security
One concern many house sitters have about background checks is the privacy of their personal information. Reputable background check providers prioritize confidentiality and security:
- Your personal details remain confidential throughout the process.
- Third-party providers maintain encrypted security systems to protect your information.
- Your details are not shared with anyone without your explicit permission.
This means you can proceed with a background check confident that your personal information is being handled responsibly.
-> We use Safety Wing for travel insurance. It’s quality coverage that doesn’t cost a monthly mortgage. Get a free quote!
Final Thoughts on House Sitting Background Checks
In the world of house sitting, trust is currency. A background check is an investment in your house sitting career that can pay dividends in terms of opportunities and peace of mind for both you and the homeowners you’ll work with.
By obtaining a background check, you’re:
- Demonstrating your commitment to professionalism and transparency
- Increasing your chances of being chosen for desirable house sits
- Contributing to a safer, more secure house sitting community
We encourage all house sitters to complete their background checks. It’s a simple step that can significantly enhance your house sitting experience and success.
Remember, as house sitters ourselves since 2008, we’ve seen the positive impact of having a ready-to-share background check. It’s been a key factor in our long-term success in this field.
So, take the plunge! Invest in a background check and watch as it opens new doors in your house sitting journey. Happy house sitting!
House Sit Background Check FAQs
Do you still have questions about house sitter background checks? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions.
What checks do Trusted Housesitters do?
TrustedHousesitters conducts email and telephone verification, seeks external references from employers, landlords, and character references, and performs an ID and document check through their partners at Evident ID.
How can I get a background check if I’m not a member of TrustedHousesitters?
To get a background check as a house sitter, you have various options: use reputable self-entry programs, explore different house sitting platforms, or obtain a background check independently and share the results on your profile.
Are there any free house sitter background check options?
Free background check sites offer basic details like name, age, and past addresses, but lack the depth and accuracy of paid services.
Their databases are limited, potentially leading to incomplete or incorrect information. They’re okay for initial checks, not high-stakes scenarios like house sitting.
