How to Properly Check Your Rental After the Christmas Holiday

December 27, 2025
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The week after Christmas is one of the highest-wear periods for rentals—more cooking, more showers, more laundry, more people. A quick, consistent walkthrough catches small issues before they turn into expensive emergencies.

1) Start with water (the most expensive “silent” damage)

  • Check under sinks (kitchen + baths) for moisture or swelling
  • Look around toilets for wobble or water rings
  • Run each faucet for 20 seconds and check drains for slow flow/gurgling
  • Quick peek at baseboards near plumbing walls

2) Do a drain + backup test

  • Run shower + sink at the same time for 60 seconds
  • Flush toilets while water is running
  • Listen for gurgling (can signal vent or main line issues)

3) HVAC check (comfort + humidity control)

  • Replace/inspect filters
  • Confirm thermostat responds + AC is cooling
  • Check for musty smell (early mildew sign)

4) Kitchen/appliances check

  • Open fridge/freezer—confirm temp feels right, no leaks
  • Run dishwasher for 2 minutes—listen for odd noises
  • Check oven/microwave for heavy grease buildup

5) Linens + mattresses

  • Strip beds fully (don’t just remake)
  • Inspect mattress protector for stains or dampness
  • Smell-check pillows/duvet (smoke/candle odors linger)

6) Safety quick scan

  • Test smoke detector button
  • Confirm fire extinguisher is present + gauge in green
  • Check first aid kit basics

7) Inventory + damage sweep (2-minute reset)

  • Count towels, check remotes, verify Wi-Fi info card
  • Look for broken glass, chips, loose furniture legs
  • Take 5 “after” photos (kitchen, living, each bathroom)

8) Outdoor/entry

  • Check locks, door alignment, deadbolt smoothness
  • Patio: umbrella stability, chairs not wobbling, no new stains

If you want this done consistently after every holiday and peak weekend, VMS can handle the post-stay inspections, maintenance coordination, and turn resets so your property stays protected year-round. Contact us now!

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