Peak season isn’t the time to discover a weak AC, sticky lock, or surprise leak. This pre-season checklist helps you catch small issues early—before they turn into guest complaints, refunds, and late-night emergencies.
Why a Pre-Season Check Matters
When your calendar fills up, your margin for error disappears. One “small” issue (a slow drain, a weak Wi-Fi signal, a door that doesn’t latch) can snowball into:
- bad reviews
- refund requests
- back-to-back maintenance calls
- stressed cleaners, vendors, and owners
A pre-season property check is how you protect the guest experience and your property—before the chaos starts.
The VMS Pre-Season Property Check (Owner-Friendly Checklist)
1) Climate + Comfort (AC is the #1 emergency)
- Replace/clean air filters
- Test thermostat (heating + cooling)
- Confirm condensate drain line is clear
- Check for leaks at air handler / ceiling stains
- Listen for unusual noises (rattling, buzzing)
- Verify ceiling fans work + remotes have batteries
- Stock extra batteries (thermostat + remotes)
Pro tip: If it’s “kind of cooling,” it will fail when it’s fully booked.
2) Plumbing + Water (Leaks ruin stays fast)
- Run every sink/shower for 2–3 minutes
- Check under sinks for drips and soft wood
- Test toilets (flush power + refilling)
- Confirm hot water gets hot quickly
- Look for slow drains (hair + buildup)
- Check exterior hose bibs (drips / pressure)
3) Entry + Security (Prevent lockouts and 2AM texts)
- Test smart lock codes + backup entry method
- Confirm door closes and deadbolt aligns smoothly
- Check sliding doors: lock + track + smooth movement
- Replace weak keypad batteries
- Confirm exterior lights work (especially entry)
4) Electrical + Safety (Small checks, huge impact)
- Test smoke detectors + replace batteries
- Test carbon monoxide detector (if applicable)
- Confirm all essential outlets work (TV area, bedside)
- Check GFCI outlets (kitchen/bath)
- Verify breaker panel labels are accurate
- Make sure flashlights are available and working
5) Wi-Fi + Tech (If Wi-Fi fails, reviews tank)
- Run a speed test in the living room AND bedrooms
- Restart modem/router and confirm stable connection
- Confirm TV apps/logins work (or are set to guest mode)
- Check remotes (batteries + correct pairing)
- Label Wi-Fi clearly and match what’s in the welcome guide
6) Kitchen Essentials (Guests judge this immediately)
- Check fridge temperature + ice maker (if any)
- Test stove/oven + microwave
- Confirm coffee maker works (and includes filters if needed)
- Replace worn sponge/brush; stock dish soap
- Check for mismatched/dirty pans and warped bakeware
- Confirm trash bags fit the bin (yes, this matters)
7) Bedrooms + Linens (Comfort = 5-star)
- Inspect sheets for stains/tears and retire tired sets
- Check mattress protectors
- Test bedside lamps + charging access
- Confirm blackout curtains/blinds work properly
- Ensure extra pillows/blanket are clean and stored
8) Bathrooms (Where “clean” is truly tested)
- Confirm water pressure and consistent hot water
- Check for mildew at grout, caulk, and shower corners
- Make sure the shower curtain liner is fresh
- Verify exhaust fan works
- Stock basics (toilet paper starter, hand soap)
9) Exterior + Curb Appeal (First impressions = reviews)
- Clear walkway/entry of cobwebs and debris
- Check patio furniture condition + cleanliness
- Confirm pool/spa schedule (if applicable)
- Trim quick overgrowth and check sprinklers
- Test outdoor lights and replace bulbs
10) Turnover Readiness (Your “back-to-back” survival plan)
- Confirm cleaner checklist is updated for the season
- Stock owner-approved backup supplies
- Create a small “emergency kit” (light bulbs, batteries, trash bags, plunge tool)
- Make sure vendors have access instructions + gate codes
- Verify house rules + check-in info are current
The Simple Goal: Fix It Before Guests Find It
Guests don’t mind that homes have quirks. They mind surprises—especially when they’re paying peak-season rates.
Pre-season inspections mean:
- fewer refunds
- fewer emergency calls
- smoother turnovers
- better reviews
- more repeat guests
Want VMS to Run This for You?
If you want your rental to feel effortless for guests—and stress-free for you—VMS can handle the pre-season check, preventative maintenance, and vendor coordination so you’re ready before the first peak booking hits.
