For managers in non-ski destinations, a long-awaited slow period has finally started. This break offers vacation rental companies the perfect opportunity to shift focus from managing back-to-back bookings to ensuring properties are in top shape. While fewer guests mean fewer turnovers, it also means more time to focus on preventative maintenance. Tackling these tasks during the off-season not only prevents costly surprises during the busy months but also enhances the guest experience when bookings pick back up.
Here are five essential maintenance tasks you can prioritize this winter to protect your properties and set your company and homeowners up for a successful year ahead.
Inspect and service HVAC systems
Your HVAC system is essential to your guest's comfort and it should be a priority to service regularly. A neglected system can lead to unexpected breakdowns, costly emergency repairs, and dissatisfied guests. Ensuring your system runs efficiently isn’t just about comfort—it’s about protecting your investment and saving on energy costs.
Winter is an ideal time to schedule a professional inspection and service for your HVAC system as technicians are often less busy. A technician can clean filters, check for leaks, and test the overall performance to ensure everything is functioning correctly. It’s also a good time to replace batteries in thermostats and double-check that they’re working as expected. Don’t forget to inspect the ductwork for any damage or blockages that could affect airflow.
Scheduling this maintenance during the off-season means you can take your time finding a qualified technician without competing with peak-season emergencies. It’s a proactive step that ensures your property is ready to keep future guests cozy and happy. With a tool like Breezeway, you can set up and automate notifications for recurring tasks.
Deep clean and refresh high-traffic areas
Over time, high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms bear the brunt of wear and tear. Stains on carpets, grime in grout, and general buildup on surfaces can detract from the overall guest experience and shorten the lifespan of your property’s finishes. Deep cleans go above and beyond standard turnover cleaning, are typically longer in duration, and require more effort because they include moving furniture and cleaning behind appliances.
Winter is the perfect opportunity to schedule these deep cleans with your team and consider hiring a professional cleaning service to tackle tasks such as carpet cleaning and upholstery cleaning. Appliances should also be inspected and cleaned thoroughly, especially ovens, refrigerators, and dishwashers. Take time to review furniture and decor for wear and tear—this could be the season to repair or replace items that no longer meet your standards or declutter some of the owner’s personal items they’ve been hanging onto.
By addressing these areas during the slow season, you ensure your property is spotless and inviting when bookings pick up. A sparkling, refreshed space can lead to glowing reviews and repeat guests.
Check for water damage and leaks
Water damage is one of the most insidious threats to vacation rental properties. A minor leak can quickly escalate into a major issue, causing structural damage, mold growth, and expensive repairs. The winter season, with its increased precipitation and colder temperatures, can exacerbate existing problems.
Take this time to thoroughly inspect your property for signs of water damage. Look for discoloration or damp spots on ceilings and walls, particularly near windows, doors, and plumbing fixtures. Don’t forget to check under sinks, around toilets, and in basements or crawl spaces. Additionally, inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles, and clear gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage.
Addressing these issues now can prevent further damage and ensure your property remains safe and dry. This proactive approach not only saves you money but also protects your reputation with guests.
Test safety equipment
The safety of your guests should always be a top priority. Smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, and fire extinguishers are essential for ensuring a secure environment and should be regularly inspected, not just in the slow season or winter months.
However, you can use the winter months to test all safety devices in your properties. Replace batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms, and ensure they’re functioning properly. Fire extinguishers should be inspected for expiration dates and replaced if necessary. Don’t forget to check that emergency exits are clearly marked and accessible, and that first-aid kits are fully stocked.
Now is the perfect time to join the Breezeway Safety Program while your team has more time to learn about proactive safety measures that will help protect your properties and guests - the benefits will be relevant year-round! By taking the time to audit your safety equipment during the slow season, you can avoid last-minute scrambles and ensure peace of mind for both you and your guests.
Repaint and make cosmetic updates
First impressions matter, and a well-maintained, aesthetically pleasing property can go a long way in attracting guests and earning glowing reviews. Guests like to know what to expect, so it’s important to keep your property looking as clean and well-maintained as the photos in your listing. Over time, walls can show signs of wear, and decor can start to feel dated. Winter is the perfect time to give your property a fresh look with some cosmetic updates.
Start by assessing the condition of your walls, baseboards, and trim. A fresh coat of paint can instantly brighten up a space and make it feel more modern. Neutral colors are a safe choice, but don’t be afraid to incorporate accent walls or other subtle design elements that make your property stand out. Additionally, consider updating soft furnishings like throw pillows, bedding, and curtains to give rooms a fresh, cohesive look.
Taking care of these updates during the off-season means you can invest the time and attention needed to get them right. Guests will notice and appreciate the effort, and your property will shine in photos and listings. Be sure to update listing photos with these improvements so guests can see the current state of the property and know what to expect when they arrive.
Automatically schedule preventative maintenance with Breezeway
Preventative maintenance is the key to protecting your vacation rental properties and creating exceptional guest experiences. By making the most of the off-season, you’ll be ready to welcome guests with confidence when bookings pick up again.
With Breezeway’s property operations solution, you can prevent issues before they arise. Their platform enables you to set up recurring schedules for preventative maintenance tasks, from deep cleans to inspections, and safety tests.
Ready to simplify your vacation rental management this winter? Learn more about Breezeway today!
About Breezeway
Breezeway’s award-winning operations and guest experience platform helps thousands of rental managers increase operational efficiency, eliminate manual work, and boost service revenue. With our mobile app, tailored checklists, and automated workflows, managers have confidence every property is guest-ready. Guest communication has never been easier with our Messaging, Guide, and Assist products. Powering over 30M property care tasks, Breezeway’s purpose-built solution drives team efficiency, reduces manual labor, and enhances employee satisfaction with our integrated Payments solution.