House sitting in the UK offers a unique opportunity for both homeowners and sitters, but understanding the legal framework is essential. While house sitting is often an informal arrangement, there are legal considerations, including contracts, insurance requirements, and how to handle disputes. Ensuring clarity in these areas helps protect both parties and creates a smooth house-sitting experience. This guide explores the key legal aspects of house sitting in the UK, offering practical insights for those looking to navigate the process with confidence.
House Sitting Agreements and Contracts
Many house-sitting arrangements are informal, but having a written agreement ensures clarity and prevents potential disputes. A well-drafted contract outlines the responsibilities of both the homeowner and the house sitter, setting clear expectations.
Key Elements of a House Sitting Agreement:
Duration of the sit – Specify the start and end dates. Timings too, can vary due to when the home owners may need to leave and return per their transport connections.
Responsibilities – Detail tasks such as pet care, garden maintenance, and security measures.
Emergency protocols – Define actions to take in case of unexpected situations. e.g. if you get locked out of the home or a pet gets sick while in your care.
Expenses – Clarify if the sitter is responsible for any costs, such as utilities. Additionally, what to do if you need to cover emergency pet care.
Guest policy – State whether the sitter can invite visitors.
House rules – Include specific requirements, such as smoking policies and restricted areas.
Having a signed agreement provides legal protection and ensures that both parties are aware of their commitments.
Insurance Considerations for House Sitters
One of the most overlooked aspects of house sitting is insurance. Both the homeowner and the sitter must understand what is covered under existing policies and whether additional coverage is needed.
Homeowner’s Insurance:
Some homeowner policies cover house sitters, but others may void coverage if a non-family member is staying on the property.
Homeowners might consider informing their insurer about a house sitter’s potential stay to confirm coverage.
It’s advisable to check if the policy covers damages caused by the sitter or theft during their stay.
If you are with a matching service like TrustedHousesitters, there is built-in insurance that comes with some membership tiers, so check to see exactly what you’re covered for.
House Sitter’s Insurance:
House sitters may consider personal liability insurance, which covers accidental damage to the property. This cover may vary from country to country.
Public liability insurance is recommended in case a third party, such as a visitor or delivery person, suffers an injury while the sitter is in charge.
If the house sitter is providing pet care, pet insurance or an agreement on veterinary expenses should be discussed beforehand.
As above for homeowners, if you’re signed up to a service you may have some level of cover that comes with your membership.
Tip on seeking advice: if you have specific questions about your situation, it can sometimes be helpful to ask other people about their experiences. Drop your question in our Facebook Group here.
Handling Disputes and Legal Protection
While most house-sitting arrangements go smoothly, disputes can arise over issues such as property damage, breaches of agreement, or disagreements regarding pet care.
How to Avoid Disputes:
Have a clear agreement – A written contract minimises misunderstandings.
Maintain communication – Regular updates to the homeowner ensure lines of communication are kept open and transparent, and go a long way to helping to resolve minor issues before they escalate.
Document property condition – Taking photos before and after the sit can serve as evidence in case of disputes.
What to Do if a Dispute Occurs:
Try to resolve the issue directly with the homeowner.
If necessary, use a third-party mediator, such as the house-sitting platform through which the arrangement was made.
As a last resort, legal action can be taken, but this is rare and usually avoidable with clear agreements in place. In our 8+ years operating within the house sitting industry we’ve never heard of a dispute going this far.
Is House Sitting Considered a Legal Tenancy?
One common concern is whether house sitting creates a tenancy agreement under UK law. Generally, house sitters do not have tenancy rights because they are not paying rent and do not have exclusive possession of the property.
However, issues can arise if:
The house sitter stays for an extended period and starts receiving mail at the property.
There is an agreement that resembles a rental contract.
To avoid confusion, homeowners should clarify in writing that the arrangement is a temporary, non-rental agreement, and house sitters should not use the address for official purposes.
Understanding the legal aspects of house sitting in the UK is crucial for both homeowners and sitters. Clear contracts, proper insurance coverage, and good communication help ensure a smooth experience while avoiding potential disputes. By following these guidelines, house sitters can protect themselves legally while enjoying the benefits of this unique arrangement.
Living and working in England in 2025 offers a unique blend of opportunities and challenges. With its rich history, proximity to Europe, and vibrant city life, England remains a top destination for professionals and digital nomads alike. However, it’s essential to understand the latest trends, benefits, and hurdles before making the move. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the pros, cons, and what’s new about living and working in England in 2025.
The Pros of Living and Working in England
1. Proximity to Europe
England’s location makes it a gateway to Europe, offering easy access to iconic destinations like Paris, Amsterdam, and Barcelona. Affordable flights and high-speed trains such as the Eurostar make weekend getaways convenient for residents.
2. Rich Cultural Heritage
From historic landmarks like the Tower of London to world-class museums and art galleries, England is a treasure trove of culture. Living here means being immersed in centuries of history while enjoying modern cultural events.
3. Thriving Job Market
Despite global challenges, England’s job market continues to grow in fields like technology, healthcare, and creative industries. Cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham are hubs for innovation and career opportunities.
4. Diverse Lifestyle Options
Whether you prefer the fast-paced energy of London, the artistic vibes of Brighton, or the serene countryside of the Cotswolds, England caters to a variety of lifestyles. Digital nomads and remote workers here can find plenty of co-working spaces and cafes to suit their needs.
5. High-Quality Education and Healthcare
England is home to some of the world’s best universities and a public healthcare system (NHS) that provides free or low-cost medical services to residents.
The Cons of Living and Working in England
1. High Cost of Living
England’s living costs, particularly in cities like London, can be daunting. Housing, transportation, and dining out often come with a premium price tag. Careful budgeting is essential for anyone planning to live here.
2. Weather Challenges
England’s weather is famously unpredictable. Rain and overcast skies can be frequent, especially in the winter months, which might take some adjustment for newcomers.
3. Housing Shortages
Finding affordable and suitable housing can be challenging, particularly in major cities. Competition for rentals is high, and prices often reflect demand.
4. Navigating Visas and Work Permits
For non-UK citizens, visa and work permit requirements can be complex. It’s essential to research and prepare all necessary documents to avoid complications.
5. Transportation Costs
While England has an extensive public transport system, fares can be expensive. Commuters often spend a significant portion of their income on travel.
What’s New in 2025?
1. Digital Nomad Visa
The UK government has introduced a Digital Nomad Visa to attract remote workers. This new initiative simplifies the process for professionals who want to live and work in England while contributing to the local economy.
2. Eco-Friendly Living Initiatives
In 2025, England is making strides toward sustainability. Cities are implementing green energy projects, expanding cycling lanes, and encouraging eco-friendly practices in housing and workplaces.
3. Remote Work Revolution
The shift to remote work has led to an increase in co-working spaces and flexible job opportunities across England. Employers are embracing hybrid work models, making it easier for digital nomads to thrive.
4. Tech and Innovation Hubs
Cities like Manchester and Birmingham are rapidly growing as tech hubs. Startups and established companies are creating new opportunities in artificial intelligence, fintech, and green technology.
5. Cultural Renaissance
2025 sees an emphasis on cultural revival, with new art exhibitions, music festivals, and theatre performances taking centre stage. England’s cities are buzzing with creative energy, attracting artists and performers from around the world.
Practical Tips for Moving to England in 2025
1. Budget Wisely
Research housing costs, utilities, and transportation expenses in your desired location. Apps like Monzo can help you track your spending and save effectively.
2. Understand the Visa Process
Visit the UK government’s official website for the latest visa requirements. If you’re eligible for the Digital Nomad Visa, gather all necessary documents and apply early.
3. Find Accommodation Early
Use platforms like Rightmove or Zoopla to explore rental options. Consider living outside city centers for more affordable housing.
4. Embrace Public Transport
Invest in travel cards like the Oyster Card (London) or regional rail passes to save on commuting costs.
5. Build a Social Network
Join local meetups, attend community events, and explore networking opportunities to make connections and feel at home.
Living and working in England in 2025 presents a dynamic blend of opportunities and challenges. From thriving job markets and cultural richness to high living costs and visa complexities, England offers an experience like no other. With careful planning and a proactive approach, you can make the most of what this remarkable country has to offer. Whether you’re a digital nomad, a professional, or someone seeking a fresh start, England in 2025 welcomes you with open arms.
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Are you considering moving to England as a digital nomad in 2025? This vibrant country offers incredible opportunities for remote workers, from its bustling cities to peaceful countryside retreats. Whether you’re drawn by the rich culture, professional opportunities, or the chance to explore iconic landmarks, this guide will provide you with all the essential tips to make your transition seamless and successful. Hopefully you love it here as much as we do!
Research Visa Requirements for Digital Nomads
Understanding visa requirements is crucial for digital nomads moving to England in 2025. Options like the Skilled Worker Visa and Innovator Visa cater to professionals and entrepreneurs. Research eligibility criteria, prepare the necessary documentation, and start the application process early to avoid delays.
Pro Tip: Consulting an immigration expert can help you navigate the process efficiently.
If you’re from the Commonwealth like we are, check if you’re eligible for an Ancestral Visa.
Set Up a Local Bank Account
A local bank account is essential for managing finances. Major banks such as Barclays, HSBC, and Lloyds offer accounts for expats, while digital banks like Monzo and Starling provide convenient app-based services. You’ll need identification, proof of address, and valid visa documents to open an account.
Applying for a bank account, you can often get caught up in a cycle of needing a local address or other details to be accepted. Barclays was originally flexible for us when we moved. However, we are now with a combination of NatWest and use Wise for transfers (get a great deal on Wise here).
Finding suitable housing is a priority. Websites like Rightmove and Zoopla are excellent for private rentals, while co-living spaces such as The Collective and Mason & Fifth foster a sense of community. Suburban areas near major cities often offer more affordable options with easy access to public transport.
Pro Tip: Use expat forums and Facebook groups to find housing recommendations.
England’s National Health Service (NHS) provides affordable healthcare to residents. Register with a General Practitioner (GP) upon arrival for access to NHS services. You need to register when you find a place to live, as you have to attend a GP near to your residential postcode.
Private health insurance is also available for faster access to specialists or additional coverage. Often, private health will come as a benefits package with employment, so ask your employer for more information.
England boasts an extensive transportation system. Use an Oyster Card for London travel and a Railcard for discounted train fares nationwide. Cities like Cambridge and Oxford are bike-friendly, making cycling a great option for eco-conscious commuters.
Pro tip: you can use your own debit or credit card on the network to tap-on-tap-off too, and it is capped at a daily rate. If you’re travelling around the country a lot, use the Trainline app and add a National Railcard to it – for a nominal fee each year you’ll save on train fares.
Build Your Professional Network
Networking is key to success as a digital nomad in England. Attend events at co-working spaces such as WeWork and Huckletree, or join Meetup groups tailored to remote workers. LinkedIn is a valuable tool for connecting with professionals in your industry.
Pro Tip: Many co-working spaces host regular networking events.
Familiarise yourself with England’s tax system. If you’re earning income while living in England, you may need to pay UK taxes as a self-employed resident. Register with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to ensure compliance. Hiring a tax adviser or accountant can help you navigate the complexities of the tax system.
England offers a variety of co-working spaces and cafes that cater to digital nomads. Top picks include Second Home, Work.Life, and The Office Group. These spaces provide reliable Wi-Fi, ergonomic workstations, and opportunities for networking.
Reliable internet is essential for remote work. Most urban areas have high-speed broadband, and co-working spaces provide excellent connectivity. For rural areas, consider portable Wi-Fi devices or data plans from providers like EE and Vodafone.
Pro Tip: Use tools like Speedtest to evaluate Wi-Fi quality before committing to a location. And don’t forget internet security – we’ve been a fan of Nord VPN for years! Get three months free Nord here.
Embrace England’s Culture and Lifestyle
Living in England is about more than work. Explore historical landmarks like Stonehenge and Buckingham Palace, savor diverse cuisines, and attend local festivals. Popular destinations like the Lake District and Brighton offer a perfect escape from city life.
Learn Local Etiquette: Politeness and queuing are valued in English culture.
Explore Europe: England’s proximity to cities like Paris and Amsterdam makes weekend trips easy.
Join Communities: Expats groups on Facebook provide support and advice.
Moving to England as a digital nomad in 2025 is a rewarding adventure. By following these essential tips, you’ll be well-prepared to settle in and thrive. From professional networking to exploring cultural landmarks, England offers endless opportunities to enrich your personal and professional life.
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London, a city where the old-world charm of cobblestone streets meets the bustling energy of the modern world. It’s a dream for many to call this city home, but the practicalities of such a move can often be daunting. If you’ve ever wondered, “How much do I need to move to London?”, you’re in the right place. We’re here to guide you through the financial maze of relocating to this iconic city.
The Allure of London
London is a melting pot of cultures, traditions, and contemporary vibes. It’s a city where history and modernity coexist, making it a top destination for expats from around the world. But beyond its allure lies the practical question: How much does it really cost to move to London? We’ve been through this journey multiple times, and each experience has taught us something new.
The Hidden Costs of Moving
Moving to London isn’t just about booking a flight and packing your bags. There are several hidden costs that can catch you off guard:
Visa expenses: Before even stepping foot in London, there’s the cost of the visa. And attached to the visa is the NHS surcharge, which gives you access to the UK’s health system. This can run into thousands of pounds, and it’s essential to factor this into your budget.
Airfares: The cost of flying can vary widely. If possible, avoid peak times like summer holidays to get better deals.
Moving your belongings: Consider the costs of shipping your furniture and belongings. Sometimes, it might be more economical to sell some items and repurchase them in London.
Temporary accommodation: It might take a while to find your perfect home in London. Until then, you’ll need a place to stay, which could be with friends, in an Airbnb, or other temporary lodgings.
Renting in London
London’s real estate market can be challenging. The rents are high, and there are several hidden costs associated with renting:
Agency fees: Some real estate agents charge fees to help you find a place. Always ensure you’re aware of any such costs upfront.
Deposits and administrative fees: Before moving into your new home, you’ll need to pay a deposit and possibly some administrative fees.
Proof of employment: Many agencies now require proof of employment or savings to ensure you can afford the rent.
Day-to-Day Living Expenses
Living in London comes with its own set of expenses. From transport to food, the cost of living can add up. It’s essential to have a backup fund for the initial days, especially if you’re job hunting. We recommend saving for at least three to six months of expenses to give yourself a comfortable cushion.
Bringing Your Furry Friend
If you’re considering moving with a pet, be prepared for additional expenses. The cost of flying a pet can sometimes be more than flying a human! Ensure you’re well-informed about the requirements and costs associated with bringing your pet to London.
Moving to London is an exciting adventure, but it requires careful planning and budgeting. By being aware of the potential costs and having a clear financial blueprint, you can make your London dream a reality without unnecessary stress. Remember, it’s all about the journey, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.
We very recently relocated back to the UK from Australia and we experienced travelling with a dog internationally for the first time. Earlier in February, we documented what we knew to that point before our little London dog had been allocated his flight to England.
To find out about the visas we secured to live and work in the UK, you can read more here.
If you’re planning to travel with your beloved dog overseas and like us, you’re unable to bring him/her on the plane with you, please read on for our experience and advice!
There’s so much planning and preparation you need to do. This (American based) advice is helpful. Similarly there’s further useful information on this post from Going.
Travelling with your dog internationally
We won’t lie, the experience was VERY hard on all of us. We wanted to create a follow-up piece to share what we learned and what we wish we had known when it came to transporting our dog, London, from Australia to the UK.
See the full story, press play:
Covered in the video: our top 5 learnings and warnings!
Learning: information about flight schedules may be illusive
Warning: Your pet’s itinerary may change at the last minute
Warning: Ensure you can get in contact with everyone involved
Learning: Be unapologetic about asking for more information and photos
Warning: Check your pet’s health when you are reunited.
Global travel with your dog: final thoughts
After two weeks, we can report that London is starting to settle. He’s definitely exhibiting some anxious behaviours that he didn’t previously have, but with lots of love, cuddles and implementation of a positive routine, we can see he’s coming back to his old self.
There’s no getting around the fact that travelling with a dog in cargo on a long haul trip is not ideal. We found it harrowing, actually. But if you want your pet to join you if you are moving abroad, there is no other option in many cases.
We hope you find our experience and learnings helpful. Most important for us to impart is to dig deep, ask LOTS of questions about potential itinerary and take your decision from there.
We’d love to hear from you – let us know your thoughts or questions in the comments below.
Overseas pet travel isn’t as easy as we’d like it to be, particularly when you’re flying a route like Australia to England. But, we’re about to head off on another adventure to the UK, and we will take our little Westie, London, with us.
To find out about the visas we secured to live and work in the UK, you can read more here.
How simple is planning overseas pet travel?
I think the best way to describe the planning is that it is a process.
It’s all possible, but there’s a number of considerations to take into account. This means ideally you would give yourself six months or more to plan. Between the time we discovered we had the opportunity to move back to the UK and the time we needed to fly, we actually didn’t have six months. Together with our trusted vet and a pet carrier, we have made it work though.
If you are planning to relocate to another country, maybe our process and information can help you.
5 steps to move a dog overseas
1. Talk to a trusted vet
The first port of call for us when planning to relocate London dog overseas with us was to speak to our vet. Our lovely vet Kirsty from Toowong Family vet in Brisbane, has known London since he was a wee puppy. She’s an excellent vet, so we booked a consult with her, primarily to speak about:
– the travel process and London’s general health for such a journey
– gauging and managing his anxiety in a new situation such as long distance flying.
Kirsty checked London over and we chatted about his age and health. We determined that he is ok to fly.
The big one for us though is the lengthy flight(s) itself. In the past, sometimes dogs were sedated so they would sleep. It’s been deemed that that this is not safe, so sedation is not an option. Kirsty talked us through a program for managing London’s anxiety, which began a few weeks ago and will continue into when he is settling into his new home in the Northern Hemisphere.
Talk to your vet about options that may suit your beloved fur baby.
2. Choose an accredited pet carrier
We researched several major international pet carriers operating in Australia and sought quotes from each. After having a conversation with each and comparing quotes, we ended up making a decision based on the itinerary available to London.
While it is possible to fly London from Brisbane to London, the routes recommended by some carriers meant that he would not leave his crate for around 24 hours. We chose Petraveller based on reviews and because they suggested a route that – while longer in terms of the amount of time we are separated – it seemed fairer on him to have more breaks.
Choosing a pet carrier is a BIG decision. It’s very expensive no matter how you look at it, and we know London’s life and wellbeing is being placed in their hands. There’s a lot of trust and faith involved. We will keep you posted on the outcome. At time of posting, London is set to begin his journey in a week’s time.
3. Consult with your chosen pet carrier to find out about the process involved in taking your dog overseas
The next most important conversation we had after the one with our vet, was the one with our chosen pet carrier. Over the duration of one or two chats, a few things were explained to us:
time frames and action items for us
costs
the importance of securing a rabies vaccination immediately for London dog – in Australia, the rabies vaccine is often in short supply and only some vets administer it, so get your pet sorted straight away if you intend to fly in the coming year
application for a Transfer of Residency to the UK so we could avoid import fees for London
preparing London for travel before, during and after the journey
the airline application process which meant we had to choose a date range for London to travel – the application is lodged around the 15th of each month and your pet’s travel itinerary is only confirmed in the last week of each month
considerations around where London would stay should we need to fly out first, or where he would go if he arrived in the UK first.
Watch the video for full details and our experience with these action points.
London was eventually allocated a flight itinerary that will see him fly out of Melbourne on a Monday evening. He will arrive in Dubai and stay at a pet hotel to recover a little, then will fly into Gatwick airport in England, arriving the same day as us (a Thursday morning). Unfortunately, due to the flight going out on Monday, he will be flown to Melbourne on the Friday and will stay in a pet hotel before having his final vet checks and then leaving the country.
Yes, it is very stressful.
4. Book a rabies vaccination
It’s important to note that if you’re flying your pet internationally from Australia, they will need a rabies vaccine. There is absolutely no way they can fly without it.
In Australia, the vaccine is known to often be in short supply. At the time we started looking for it, none was available. We waited anxiously for a few weeks, and after putting our name on the list at multiple vets in the whole of south-east Queensland, we eventually got a call from Kalinga Park Vet who sorted us out.
You’ll be given a certificate by the vet who administers this. Keep it safe as you’ll need to share it several times during the process with your pet carrier.
5. Crate train your dog for overseas travel
A crate will be sent to you by your pet carrier. The size will depend on dimensions you provide and guidance is given about how to measure for this.
Give your pooch as much time crate training for travel as possible.
London never had a worry in his crate – he loved it and we crate trained him as a puppy. BUT he’s never had the door closed and didn’t like it. Some excellent advice on a process was shared with us from our vet. Similar advice is present on the internet.
Make the crate fun: put treats, toys and food in and around it. Gradually introduce your pet to his/her crate.
Ensure the crate is comfortable for sleeping. London has a favourite bed that we put inside – he takes himself into the crate to sleep at night. We did reward this at the beginning with treats.
Start to get him/her used to travel. We put his crate in the car and went for drives of varying length. At first London didn’t like the change, but he got used to it and now sits calmly in his crate.
As time goes by, see if you can find a ‘noisier’ vehicle like a van or 4WD to put the crate in, so your pup gets used to louder sounds.
And if possible, put your pet into their crate and get someone else to go for a drive with them. When you show up on the other side, he/she will associate the experience with you eventually showing up to meet them.
The nerves are real
I’m not going to lie – we’re nervous about this.
The leg between Australia and Dubai is 14 hours. Then London stays in a new country in the middle of the world overnight. Following is 9 hours to Gatwick in his crate. He then remains in his create as he is processed through customs which could be a few hours. Petraveller’s partner over in the UK will let him out for a walk and toilet break before he then is transported to where we are staying.
Our vet told us that he won’t love it, but that he will be ok.
We will report back: I’m sure there’ll be tears on all fronts. But it will be worth it in the end ❤️
Hi, we’re Sarah & Cooper. Welcome to Travel Live Learn! We’re Aussie expats currently living in the UK (for the third time!) with our adorable Westie, London. Our mission? To inspire you to embrace a life of adventure—whether it’s travelling longer, relocating to the UK or Europe, or exploring the freedom of remote work and digital nomadism. Enjoy your time on our site! We'd love to stay in touch: subscribe for our weekly stories, updates and remote work job opportunities direct to your inbox.
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