To want to know they are who they say they are?

[Needapetsitter]

We need a pet sitter this year, everyone who usually helps us out is away too. Tried Pawshake, messaged a couple of sitters in the area.

When setting up the ‘meet and greet’, I asked if they were happy to bring a contact or two for references and ID.

One said she wasn’t comfortable with this and good luck finding someone.

So my question is… AIBU? Is it not normal to check that the stranger we’re planning to give our house keys to is definitely who they say they are? I’m genuinely surprised but prepared to be told that I’m wrong!

Completely reasonable of you to ask. Completely reasonable that they’d say no. Completely reasonable you refused to proceed.

Of course, all fair enough. But is it unusual to ask?

I think it probably is unusual to ask. I also think it was sensible - I think people aren’t usually so sensible.

Yanbu.

It felt like I was overstepping a line, I’m really surprised

When I worked as a cleaner I had to provide ID and a db's certificate..unreasonable not to

Not at all. I use trusted housesitters. They have references for the people attached to their profiles. The ones I have used have sent me copies of their passports without me even asking.

Recently tried out a new cleaner. She was reluctant to give references. Turned out she was a thief too. I would stick to your guns op and your gut.

Thank you, feeling reassured!

Absolutely not unreasonable to ask, and very strange she wasn’t comfortable with that.
Thought it would be second nature to have documents to hand, she should also have insurance if she’s looking after pets too surely?