4 Times you definitely need a house sitter

Leaving your home can create many potential safety risks and hazards. If you're planning to leave town and not sure whether you need a house sitter or not, there are four times when you should definitely hire a house sitter.

If you're leaving for weeks at a time, you definitely want to hire someone who can be in your house and make it appear occupied. An empty house attracts burglars looking for an easy place to rob, so a house sitter can make sure that no one thinks your house has been abandoned. A house sitter can also help maintain your home by keeping it aired out, keeping the yard clean, and picking up mail and newspapers.

If you have a pet you're planning to leave behind when you travel, it's a good idea to hire a sitter to watch over your animals and your house. Your house sitter can feed, water, and care for your pet. They can also provide companionship to ensure the pet doesn't get too depressed or lonely.

All houses have things people treasure, but if you keep things of particular value at home, get a house sitter. Having someone come over and check your house is also another option, but the best security you can have for very valuable items is someone that is there overnight.

If you have a friend in town who wants to stay in your home or someone who likes a staycation, inviting him or her to house sit can be a good opportunity for everyone. Having someone stay at your house is always better than leaving it alone, so if you have someone who is willing to volunteer to watch your house, there is no reason to say no.