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How to choose the right cancellation policy as a sitter

Your cancellation policy is one of your most important business decisions. It affects how often you get booked, how protected your income is, and how you handle schedule changes. The goal is to balance flexibility with protection.

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Why your policy matters

When a client reserves your time, a last-minute cancellation often means the slot can't be refilled. A good policy protects your income, sets clear expectations, reduces disruptions, and makes you look more professional.

Your options

  • Flexible: best for newcomers building reviews and maximizing early bookings.
  • Moderate: a balanced middle ground — some protection, still attractive.
  • Strict: for in-demand sitters or peak travel seasons.
  • Non-refundable: for exceptional demand or specialized services.

If you're new

Start with flexible or moderate. It makes your profile more appealing and speeds up your first bookings. Early on, focus on getting booked, earning reviews, and building repeat clients.

When to tighten up

As your profile matures, you can gradually raise the bar. Consider it when you're fully booked in busy periods, stacking five-star reviews, or regularly turning clients away for availability. Many sitters move Flexible → Moderate → Strict over time.

Seasonal adjustments

Your policy doesn't have to stay the same all year. Go stricter during holidays and summer, when cancellations cost you more; loosen up in slower seasons to attract bookings.

Effect on bookings

Pet parents compare sitters side by side. Flexible policies raise conversion and reduce hesitation from new clients; stricter policies protect your time but filter out some uncertain bookings.

There's no universally perfect policy. Start flexible, build credibility, then adjust as demand grows.