I do no think you are “overthinking” and agree that the HO chose a poor way to communicate with you vis a vis some sort of agreement.
For the first few times we found sitters from THS we required no more than a get-to-know-you handover, but then one very astute sitter actually asked us if we would be open to an agreement based on one that I think was originally on the THS site (although I cannot locate it right this moment).
This sitter’s thoughts were that we both needed protection and delineation of expectations. the agreement is built on the THS standards but clearly states, for example, the date the sitter must vacate, which is protection for the HO against overstays. It also is a document the sitter can use should there be a question as to their right to be there. For example, if law enforcement had to be called about a problem, the sitter can demonstrate they are legally there and temporarily responsible for the premises. For our peace of mind and should there be insurance questions in case of an accident, I also require the sitter to advise me in writing of any overnight guests they invite.
Bottom line: I think there is comfort in having a written agreement. I tell potential sitters about this before inviting them to the sit. I welcome edits as may be appropriate. This is a far sight different than the “boiler plate” offered to the OP.
This would make me uncomfortable, however, I’d request to have a call with the homeowner first and explain how it works using us sitters.
As you mentioned, with them being a new user of sitters, they’re probably worried.
We’ve had quite a number of new HO where we were their first non-family sitter and all of them have been quite nervous.
But I would also not sign a legal document without having my counsel review it, however, I would consider it depending on the situation.
Part of this is because I have signed a lot of contracts for my business relating to liability so I can skim through the doc and get an idea of it and make a quick decision.
I can understand both sides of this and I’m surprised this doesn’t come up more frequently. I haven’t read through the liability docs for the Standard Sitter package yet, but for an extra $50 CAD year, there’s liability insurance included. Please check with the THS team and request the actual liability documents before you make a decision to upgrade.
In a case like this, IF their liability covers what is needed, you could have referred them to that document. Also, they have the same option to upgrade to a level that gives them protection as well. So that’s worth exploring if you are willing to take on new HO’s.
Just remember that right now, many people are struggling financially these days and these new HO’s are probably trying to protect what they have, albeit not smoothly.
Is this even legal? Technically, sitters are guests. There’s no payment for services or rental fees paid. So, unless it’s damage with intent, it would fall on the HO insurance policy. Feel like THS is trying to carry over policies that wouldn’t legally hold in the U.S.