Adhering to a seasonal preventative maintenance schedule will help ensure your short-term vacation rental property remains in good condition. Use the below list as an outline to craft your own.
Preventative Maintenance:
- Change smoke alarm batteries annually.
- Inspect and service property fire extinguishers annually.
- Check all lightbulbs at the property and replace any that have gone out.
- Conduct regular cleaning and maintenance of appliances such as the stove, oven, refrigerator, dishwasher, and washer and dryer.
- Conduct regular pest control inspections and treatments.
- Have a professional conduct a yearly inspection of the property’s electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems.
- Inspect and replace worn-out or damaged caulking and weatherstripping around windows and doors.
- Monitor and maintain the property’s drainage and irrigation systems to prevent water damage.
Spring Cleaning:
- Inspect and clean gutters and downspouts to prevent water damage.
- Check the roof for any damage or leaks.
- Check windows and doors for any leaks or drafts, and repair or replace them as necessary.
- Inspect and clean the HVAC system and replace filters. Check with your HVAC vendors to see if they offer this as an annual service.
- Check and repair any damaged or worn-out exterior surfaces, such as siding, paint, or stucco.
- Clean and inspect the chimney and fireplace.
- Inspect and clean outdoor furniture, grill, and patio areas.
- Check and clean the pool, if applicable.
- Clean and organize the garage, shed, or storage areas.
- Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace batteries as necessary.
Summer Maintenance:
- Check and maintain the HVAC system, replace filters, and check refrigerant levels. As mentioned above, check with your local HVAC vendor(s) as they may offer this as an affordable annual service.
- Clean and inspect the outdoor grill and patio furniture regularly.
- Monitor and maintain the pool or hot tub, if applicable.
- Check and repair any damage to the roof, siding, or exterior surfaces.
- Inspect and repair any cracks or damage to the driveway or walkways.
- Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace batteries as necessary.
Fall Maintenance:
- Inspect and clean gutters and downspouts.
- Check and repair any damage to the roof, siding, or exterior surfaces.
- Check and clean the chimney and fireplace.
- Inspect and repair any cracks or damage to the driveway or walkways.
- Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace batteries as necessary.
- Drain and winterize the pool and exterior water lines, if applicable.
Winter Maintenance:
- Check and maintain the furnace/heat system, and replace filters.
- Inspect and repair any damage to the roof, siding, or exterior surfaces.
- Check and repair any cracks or damage to the driveway or walkways.
- Monitor and maintain any snow or ice removal as needed.
- Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace batteries as necessary.