Has anybody stayed in a dirty house? I've had the same client book me a few times now and her house was not dirty at all. Now the past two stays have been really dirty, her home smells really bad from lack of cleaning out the fridge, her cats not using the litter boxes and I feel really uncomfortable continuing the stay. What should I do?
It may be that the owner has gotten more comfortable with you and not longer feels the need to 'clean up' before you come to stay? Regardless, I think it would be a good first step to mention it to the owner in a non-accusatory way. Pose it as a question, that you'd like to help and could contact a cleaning service. If the owner refuses to do anything and you feel too uncomfortable to continue the stay, you should advise the owner of that and contact Rover so they can find a replacement. If you're able to tough out the rest of the stay, but chose not to sit for this client again, just decline any future requests from her.
I've been inside a lot of other people's homes, and most have been pretty clean. There is occasionally a living situation I don't feel comfortable entering, and unless it's for cats I'll usually just offer to board the animal at my house for the same rate (I have a dog who doesn't like cats). There was one situation where I offered the client some of my time on a weekend when she was in town to help her clear out some of her house. She didn't take me up, but when I went back later the house was in much better shape. Sometimes we don't notice our environment.
This is why I insist on meet and greets before pretty much every booking -- you never really know what you're walking into. Some people describe their dogs as sweet, but when you're face to face with Kujo, the word "sweet" isn't at the top of your list. Luckily most people know their dogs' issues and are upfront -- whether it's lack of housebreaking, chewing / destructive behavior, lunging, etc. Most people are not as upfront about their houses.
Good luck with your situation!
The house I am in is SO DIRTY. When I did the meet and greet, I just talked to the lady at the door and didn't see the house. It's impossible for me to spend the night here and now not sure what to do.
I haven't stayed in a dirty house. However, I have been in houses where over time (repeat visits) I've noticed new issues. In those instances, I contacted the owner (either by text or email based on their preference and shared whatever was going on). They were always extremely appreciative. So, I'd suggest contacting the client, letting them know what you're observing, and work out how to proceed with them.