Preventative Maintenance for Short-Term Rental Properties and Why It Matters

As a short-term rental property host, you likely know that a well-maintained property can lead to happy guests and positive reviews, which translates to profits and growth.

However, many hosts may overlook the importance of preventative maintenance, instead opting to fix issues only when they arise, which can lead to costly repairs and downtime for your rental property.

Preventative maintenance involves performing routine maintenance tasks to ensure that your property is in top condition and catch small issues before they become larger ones.

By the end of this post, you'll understand why preventative maintenance is essential for your business and how it can save money and keep your guests satisfied.

1. Regular cleaning

This is the art of keeping the short-term rental property clean and tidy to ensure a safe and healthy environment for guests. It involves regularly cleaning the floors, carpets, furniture, appliances, and surfaces to remove dirt, dust, and other debris.

Regular cleaning can be done by the rental property owner or by hiring a professional cleaning service. The cleaning schedule can vary depending on the frequency of guests, but it is recommended to clean after each guest's departure and do a deep cleaning at least once a month.

This can prevent the buildup of dirt, dust, and other debris, leading to health issues and damage to the property. It also ensures the property is always presentable and attractive to potential guests.

2. Pressure washing

You can use high-pressure water to clean the exterior surfaces of a short-term rental property. This includes the walls, roof, driveway, patio, and other outdoor areas.

One thing to remember is that it is recommended to pressure wash at least once a year, or more frequently if the property is located in an area with high amounts of dirt, humidity or frequent rain.

The process can remove dirt, grime, and other debris that can build up on the exterior surfaces of a rental property over time. This improves the property's appearance and helps prevent surface damage due to the buildup of dirt and other pollutants.

3. Painting and sealing

The maintenance practices involve applying a protective coating to a short-term rental property's interior and exterior surfaces. This includes walls, floors, ceilings, and other surfaces.

You can either do this alone if it is a simple paint or hire experts to do the job for you. Paint and seal every few years to keep the property in good condition – depending on the wear and tear of the property.

Doing so can help protect the surfaces of a rental property from damage due to weather, humidity, and wear and tear. It also improves the property's appearance and makes it more attractive to potential guests.

4. Plumbing maintenance

This involves regular inspections and repairs of the plumbing system in a short-term rental property. It includes checking for leaks, fixing clogs, and ensuring all fixtures and appliances function properly.

And since most hosts forget, inspect the plumbing system at least once a year and fix any issues immediately to prevent further damage. Alternatively, you can hire a professional to check and repair leaks regularly.

This measure can help prevent water damage, mold growth, and other issues arising from a faulty plumbing system. It also ensures guests can access a fully functioning and safe plumbing system during their stay.

5. Roof and gutter maintenance

The roof is a critical part of any rental property as it protects the building from the elements. Regular maintenance of the roof can help prevent leaks and other issues that could lead to water damage and mold growth. It's essential to inspect the roof at least once a year, preferably before the rainy season, to ensure that it's in good condition.

It involves several tasks, including inspecting the roof for damage, cleaning the gutters, and checking the flashing around chimneys and vents. Any issues with the roof should be addressed promptly to prevent any further damage and costly repairs.

Regular roof maintenance can help extend the lifespan of the roof, prevent leaks, and reduce the risk of water damage and mold growth. It also helps to ensure that guests are safe and comfortable during their stay, which can lead to positive reviews and repeat business. Taking care of the roof can also help maintain the property's value over time.

How a professional can help

As a professional repair and maintenance company, Universal Floors and More is committed to helping short-term rental hosts maintain their top-quality properties in the Lee County, Florida area. We offer short term rental property maintenance services and repairs to ensure your property is always ready for guests.

Our team of experienced professionals can provide regular inspections and maintenance checks to identify potential issues before they become serious problems. We can also provide routine maintenance services such as cleaning, painting, and pressure washing to keep your property looking its best.

In addition, our company offers repair and remodeling services to address any issues that arise, such as flooring repairs, kitchen and bath remodels, and waterproofing. Our experienced technicians can quickly and efficiently address any issues, ensuring your property is always guest-ready.

By working with Universal Floors and More, short-term rental hosts can know that their property is in good hands. Our team is committed to providing high-quality services at an affordable price, and we are always available to answer any questions or concerns. Contact us today.