I am often asked by friends to house-sit (or pet-sit) when they go on vacation. I’m happy to help—without pay—when my schedule allows. But I dislike the “helpful” electronics that many of them use: Alexa, Siri, Ring. I don’t like being watched and listened to. May I ask that they be disabled during my stay?  —HOUSE SITTER

Why not? You’re providing a service that your friends want, and you’re simply asking for an accommodation in return. Reasonable! Some friends may ask if they can leave on their exterior cameras for safety purposes. But if they won’t provide an environment that’s comfortable for you, they can find another house (or pet) sitter. 

—Adapted from “Social Q’s” in The New York Times Magazine