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How to drop a client?

I have a client that I don't mind doing check-ins for, but I don't want to stay overnight if they ask me to. What is a nice diplomatic way of saying this without telling them I don't like their house?

They had a long haired cat that only needed check-ins when they were on vacation. They then got a puppy and I have done a couple of evening sittings for the puppy. All fine except their house is really dusty and full of air fresheners, and when they asked me to housesit I cringed because of dust and scent allergies. Luckily I was already booked so I could honestly say I was not available. I still check in on the cat and water their plants, but means I am in and out in 30-45 min. I really don't want to stay there overnight. Anyone else had this difficulty?

2 Answers

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Since you want to continue doing check ins, but don't want to stay overnight, the easiest way will be to continue offering to do check ins when they ask and let them know you're not available to stay over. You don't need to explain why - if it's another client booking, personal commitments, or olfactory/sinus overload.

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Agreed! You don't owe anyone an explanation aside from "I don't offer that service."

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I would simply state what you said, that you have allergies and an extended stay would leave you feeling unwell.