How Does Sit Cancellation Insurance Work in the US?

Sitter Questions, Advice & Chat
1

Hi everyone,

I recently accepted a sit in the US, but the owner’s house was red-flagged due to a gas leak. They mentioned they’ll return to address the issue, which means the sit might get canceled. This is really last minute owners changes dates two times .

I have sit cancellation insurance, but I’m not entirely sure how it works in this situation. Could anyone who’s been through something similar explain:

  • What steps I need to take to activate the insurance?
  • What documentation or proof is usually required?
  • Are there specific timelines for reporting a canceled sit?

I’d appreciate any advice or tips to ensure everything goes smoothly if the sit ends up being canceled.

Thanks in advance!

2

@Nomad_Housesitter You must report this to THS asap so they are in the loop - you can call the Urgent Support Line 24/7 phone number and they will explain the process to you .
We had a similar situation where host was injured and was coming home early but they didn’t know exactly when they would get flight back home . We notified THS immediately and then updated them when the situation was clarified in the meantime they talked us through the process and what would be required.

If the host can message you through the inbox to state that they are returning home early- THS will be able to see this conversation.

The Urgent Support Line 24/7 phone number is on your dashboard .

Here’s a link to a thread that discusses the claims process - please read and add your experience to it if you make a claim .

https://forum.trustedhousesitters.com/t/tried-tested-process-for-premium-insurance-claim

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3

Has the sit started? Are you looking after the animals already and the owners are returning?

4

The sit has not started . The owners just notified

5

Therefore the cancellation policy will not apply. I think the sit has to have started for it to apply. It’s up to you to make your own arrangements.

6

If the sit is starting within 14 days then the sit cancellation can apply -

@Nomad_Housesitter check with THS to see if your situation is covered .

Also start looking for another sit as a back up - fortunately at this time of year there are thousands of sits listed so you may be able to find a replacement sit .

However, you will not be apply to apply for another sit for these dates until the host officially cancel the dates of this sit . THS or the host can do this .

For a claim to be successful one of the criteria is that you inform THS within 24 hours of the cancellation. If you haven’t already , you should contact them now.

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7

Thank you for the clarification

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8

@Nomad_Housesitter, yes it applies. But there are quirks to the terms. This includes max 14 days between cancellation and start date, among other topics. We’ve had two sit cancellations, one of which resulted in a successful Sit Cancellation Insurance claim. If you’re housesit is in a location with many other available housesits then that’s an important aspect. Suggest read specifics of coverage.