What is the Difference between Home Watch & House Sitting Services?

As a trusted provider of Home Watch services in both Calgary and Whitehorse, we frequently encounter homeowners who are uncertain about the differences between Home Watch and traditional house-sitting. While both services aim to provide peace of mind during extended absences, they serve distinct purposes, and understanding these differences can be critical when deciding which option is best for your home. Homeowners often ask, “Is a house-sitter enough, or do I need a professional Home Watch service?” This is an important consideration, especially if you want to ensure that your property remains secure and well-maintained while you’re away. Whether you’re leaving for a business trip, spending the winter months somewhere warmer, or frequently travelling, knowing the benefits of each service will help you make an informed decision.

Scope of Services
Home Watch and house-sitting serve different purposes. Home Watch is a professional service focused on maintaining the security and upkeep of a property during the owner’s absence. It includes routine inspections to check for issues like leaks, HVAC problems, and other potential risks to the home’s condition. House-sitting, on the other hand, typically involves someone living in the home temporarily. This often includes tasks like feeding pets and maintaining the home’s lived-in appearance.

Expertise and Professionalism
Our team of Certified Home Watch Professionals (CHWP), trained in risk mitigation and property security, provides a higher level of expertise than typical house-sitters. They follow a structured checklist to prevent and address issues, often using technology for remote monitoring. House-sitters, while usually responsible, may not have the same level of training or commitment to property inspections. Their role is more focused on personal caretaking rather than preventative maintenance.

Frequency and Responsibility
Home Watch services are scheduled at intervals that suit the homeowner’s needs. These trained professionals do not stay in the home; instead, they visit regularly to inspect and document any concerns. House-sitting, in contrast, involves someone living in the home full-time while the owner is away. House-sitters may take on tasks like pet care or basic household chores, but their primary responsibility is to maintain a presence in the home.

Target Audience
Homeowners in Calgary and Whitehorse seeking peace of mind during extended absences, such as snowbirds or frequent travellers, often prefer Home Watch services due to their focus on security and preventative care. House-sitting is ideal for those who need a personal caretaker, especially if pets or other daily responsibilities need attention. The key difference is in the approach—Home Watch is security-focused and preventative, while house-sitting is more about providing day-to-day caregiving and presence.

Acuity Advantage Home Watch Professionals are here for You

Acuity Advantage provides National Home Watch Association Accredited services designed to give homeowners peace of mind during extended absences. Our team of Certified Home Watch Professionals (CHWP) trained in risk mitigation, conducts detailed property home watch inspections to ensure your home in Calgary or Whitehorse remains secure, well-maintained, and protected from potential issues. Utilizing advanced technology and a systematic approach, we offer a level of care beyond traditional house-sitting, tailored to your property’s unique needs. Whether you’re a seasonal resident or frequently travel, Acuity Advantage ensures your home is in the best possible hands.

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Photo by Nathan Walker on Unsplash