Re Jessica Rawnsley’s post (‘ I’m a homeless person taking care of a palace!’ The housesitters getting away the expense of living crisis, 21 November), I just recently encountered a 75-year-old female who resides in a campervan and had actually been doing it for 40 years. I retired almost ten years back and, with scratchy feet after a life time of exploring theatre, I chose to use up housesitting.
In the beginning, I registered with a firm for contacts, however understood that it was generating income off my back from the owners of residential or commercial properties. Setting myself up with public liability insurance coverage– simply in case I overturn a Ming vase or an animal unfortunately passes away on my watch– and a rap sheet check, I made it understood that I was offered.
I have actually never ever recalled. The big advantages– apart from checking out charming houses– are the cost savings you can make. I have a little practical flat, however conserve a reasonable quantity while on my journeys. In the beginning, I sat for good friends totally free of charge, or for little favours: a tab at the regional club, or a refrigerator loaded with food and a wine cellar.
However then word circulated to their associates and today I charge a modest daily rate, and automobile running expenses to and from the website. I tend to take any reservations longer than a week. One was for 3 months in a remote location of Scotland, taking care of fish.
Gordon Cooper
Flackwell Heath, Buckinghamshire
