This may sound like a silly question, but I am new to all this. I am planning on just providing dog walks and drop ins and wondering how I should be expected to get into the homes of my clients!
Key lock boxes are a terrific way to handle access to a residence. They are readily available at hardware stores and amazon. Real Estate Agents use them also.
My clients have mounted them outside the house, used the go around the door knob kind, and given me the code to their garage door, and then you can have separate lock box inside - or access through door. I do NOT like having a key to person's house full time - and I now refuse to take one. I explain safety wise it is better for them to have control of the key. should they have other contractors coming into the house - we can all use the same key. When someone is no longer authorized to enter the residence, change the code.
An interesting side benefit, is the times when the resident locks themselves out of their residence - a key is right there - no more having to break into your own home. It also allows me as the sitter to respond from anywhere - should the owner get suck in traffic, the meeting that won't end - stuff like that. I don't have to worry about going home, getting a key, which vehicle I left the key in and all that.
I now require it of my clients. Clients who don't wish to, well.....that is their decision. I'm not a fan of people "just leaving the door unlocked". it really just isn't the best - and will often mean the insurance company does not have to pay for items stolen/trashed in a burglary.
My client has a key in a lockbox outside that is only know to them, myself, and the one other walker that they have. I let them personally bring up the issue of the key, because I figured that it would make them more comfortable to control that part of the conversation, since we are talking about me being in their house and all when they aren't there. So far though, no issues on that end.
Clients either give you a key, provide a lock-box or give you a code. I'm 100% walker and have clients with all three options.
I peaked your profile and I would recommend you set your rates the same price for both of your services. Also, I see you are outside of Atlanta so if lots of folks commute walking should be good for you however with the way you have your calendar set-up it will be difficult for you with so many days showing unavailable.
Best of luck.
Thank you for the feedback! I changed my rates and tried to update my schedule as much as possible. I signed up early just so i could get a feel but I am not moving or am available until that schedule time and I am a student so I only have specific times I am available.
Hello. I ask the client if they live in a house to either hide the key outside their house or to provide me with a key. Whatever they are more comfortable with. Exactly, they won't be home and you need to get in, so you will need a key. If they live in a condo they can buzz you in and get a key.